Introduction to Ground Beef and Broccoli
When it comes to quick and satisfying meals, Ground Beef and Broccoli is undoubtedly a weeknight hero. With its vibrant colors and hearty ingredients, this dish can transform any routine dinner into a family favorite in just 30 minutes. Busy young professionals often find themselves searching for meals that strike a balance between convenience and taste, and this recipe delivers on both fronts.
Why Ground Beef and Broccoli is a weeknight hero
Imagine coming home after a long day, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That's where this one-pan wonder steps in. Packed with lean protein from ground beef and nutritious greens from broccoli, it’s a dish you can feel good about serving. The flavorful sauce, which combines savory soy sauce and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar, elevates the meal without adding complexity.
Plus, it's adaptable! Want to throw in some extra veggies or swap beef for ground turkey? Go for it! Quick prep, simple cooking, and delicious results make Ground Beef and Broccoli perfect for any busy night. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a partner, or family, this recipe is sure to impress. For more quick meals, check out blog sections on stir fries and other easy protein-packed dishes!
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Essential components for a hearty dish
To create a satisfying Ground Beef and Broccoli meal, you'll want to gather some essential ingredients that form the backbone of the dish. Here’s what you need:
- 1 lb. of ground beef: This will provide the protein base that makes your meal hearty and filling.
- 3 cups of broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, broccoli adds essential nutrients and a lovely crunch.
- 1 yellow onion and 1 red bell pepper: These vegetables contribute a sweet and savory flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
- Soy sauce, beef broth, ginger, and garlic: These will create a rich, flavorful sauce that ties everything together.
Optional ingredients for added flavor and nutrition
Want to take your Ground Beef and Broccoli to the next level? Consider adding:
- Carrots or water chestnuts: These can enhance the texture and add a different color to your dish.
- Green onions or toasted sesame seeds: Perfect for garnishing, they give a fresh finish and extra flavor.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: A great alternative if you're watching your sodium intake.
For more tips on how to make your dish even better, check out sources like Healthline for nutrition advice!
Preparing Ground Beef and Broccoli
Cooking can sometimes feel daunting, but the process of making Ground Beef and Broccoli is straightforward and enjoyable. Let’s walk through each step to ensure your meal is delicious and stress-free!
Gather Your Ingredients and Prep Work
Before diving into cooking, it's essential to gather all your ingredients and complete some prep work. Here’s what you’ll need:
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For the main dish:
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1 tablespoon peanut oil (or substitute with vegetable or olive oil)
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3 cups broccoli florets, washed and dried
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1 pound ground beef
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1 yellow onion, diced
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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Salt and white pepper to taste
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For the flavor-packed sauce:
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2 tablespoons cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water
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1 cup beef broth
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¼ cup soy sauce
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3 tablespoons brown sugar
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1-2 tablespoons honey (start with one and adjust to taste)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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½ teaspoon ground ginger
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1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Make sure to mix the cornstarch and water in a covered container, then set it aside. This will help thicken your sauce later!
Cooking the Broccoli to Perfection
To ensure your broccoli is vibrant and tender—but not mushy—heat up your peanut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add in those broccoli florets and toss to coat them evenly. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly while still retaining their crunch. This step is crucial; you want that stunning green color and fresh taste!
Browning the Ground Beef and Onions
Next, it’s time to tackle the ground beef. Season with salt and white pepper to your taste, and cook the ground beef and diced onions in the same skillet you used for the broccoli. Over medium-high heat, crumble the beef as it cooks for around 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned. The onions should become translucent and fragrant. This is where the flavor begins to develop! Drain any excess grease, then add the sliced bell pepper and sauté for an additional minute for a pop of color and texture.
Crafting the Flavorful Sauce
Grab your prepped sauce ingredients and combine them in a medium bowl. Make sure to have your beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, ginger, and toasted sesame oil all mixed together. Once your beef mixture is ready, pour the sauce into the pan and bring it to a gentle boil. This pacifies all the flavors and makes your kitchen smell amazing! Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes before gradually stirring in the cornstarch mixture to thicken up the sauce just right.
Combining All Components and Serving
Lastly, lower the heat and gently add your beautifully cooked broccoli back into the beef and sauce mix. Stir it all together until everything is heated through.
Serve your delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli over a bed of fluffy rice. This bright and hearty meal is sure to impress your friends and family, showcasing a wonderful blend of textures and flavors. Don't forget to top it with some green onions for garnish! Enjoy cooking this satisfying dish, and feel free to check out more tips for rice cooking if you want to perfect that part too!
Variations on Ground Beef and Broccoli
Use Ground Turkey or Chicken as Alternatives
Want to give your Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe a twist? Swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken! These lean options are just as flavorful and may even be healthier, helping you trim a few calories. Plus, they absorb sauces beautifully, making them an excellent canvas for that tasty sauce you're whipping up.
Explore Different Veggies to Add Pizzazz
Don’t limit yourself to just broccoli. Consider tossing in julienned carrots, crispy snap peas, or bell peppers for a touch of color and a variety of textures. You can even venture into the world of leafy greens with kale or baby spinach. These additions not only amp up the visual appeal but also boost nutritional value. Check out this guide on nutrient-rich vegetables to inspire your veggie choices!
Cooking tips and notes for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Tips to enhance the dish's flavor
Want to elevate your Ground Beef and Broccoli? Consider adding a splash of oyster sauce for a deeper umami flavor or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick of spice. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also brighten up the dish, giving it a fresh aroma.
Making use of pantry staples
This recipe shines using simple pantry staples. Soy sauce, beef broth, and cornstarch are essentials that you might already have at home—creating a savory sauce is just a few steps away! If you’re low on beef broth, you can use water or even vegetable broth as a flavorful substitute.
For more tips, check out this guide to cooking with ground beef and you'll be on your way to a delicious meal!
Serving suggestions for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Pairing with different rice options
To elevate your Ground Beef and Broccoli, consider experimenting with various rice options! While classic white rice is always a hit, brown rice offers a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Quinoa is a fantastic gluten-free alternative, providing a protein boost, while cauliflower rice presents a low-carb option without compromising taste. For an added flair, try fragrant jasmine or coconut-infused rice to complement the dish perfectly.
Creative topping ideas to elevate the dish
Transform your Ground Beef and Broccoli by adding creative toppings that enhance flavor and texture. Sliced green onions bring freshness, while toasted sesame seeds add crunch. For a delightful twist, sprinkle roughly chopped peanuts or crunchy chow mein noodles on top for a fun contrast. If you're feeling adventurous, a drizzle of sriracha offers a spicy kick that balances the dish wonderfully.
Time Breakdown for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Preparation Time
Get ready in just 10 minutes as you chop veggies and mix together the sauce. This is a great time to gather your ingredients for a seamless cooking experience.
Cooking Time
The stovetop magic takes only 20 minutes! In no time, you’ll have a delicious, savory dish that’s full of flavor and nutrients.
Total Time
In just 30 minutes, you can serve your family a wholesome meal that brings together the heartiness of ground beef, the crispiness of broccoli, and a delightful sauce that will satisfy anyone’s taste buds.
For more quick meal ideas, check out these easy recipes that can fit right into your busy schedule!
Nutritional Facts for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Calories per serving
Each serving of this flavorful Ground Beef and Broccoli dish contains approximately 488 calories. This makes it a hearty and satisfying meal option, especially when paired with rice.
Key nutrients
This dish is packed with essential nutrients. It offers protein from the ground beef, vitamins C and K from the broccoli, and iron—key for energy and immunity. Plus, the inclusion of bell peppers adds extra vitamin A and antioxidants to your plate.
Tips for lower-sodium options
To keep the sodium levels in check while enjoying your Ground Beef and Broccoli, consider using low-sodium soy sauce and reduced-sodium beef broth. This simple swap can drastically lower your sodium intake without sacrificing flavor. You can also experiment with other herbs and spices to elevate the dish naturally.
For more insights into healthy cooking practices, check out resources from the Mayo Clinic or the USDA's Dietary Guidelines.
FAQs about Ground Beef and Broccoli
Can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version of Ground Beef and Broccoli, consider substituting the ground beef with plant-based proteins such as lentils, chickpeas, or a meat alternative like Beyond Meat. Additionally, you can enhance the dish with more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even tofu. This way, you still enjoy that delightful combination of flavors while keeping it meat-free.
What can I serve with Ground Beef and Broccoli?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over fluffy white rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. For a lighter option, try it alongside steamed brown rice or cauliflower rice. You can also consider adding a side salad, like a simple cucumber and carrot salad with a soy vinaigrette, to brighten up your plate.
How do I store leftovers correctly?
Leftovers from your Ground Beef and Broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Just make sure to separate individual portions for easy reheating. When you're ready to enjoy them again, it’s best to thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave until heated through. For more tips on food storage, check out FoodSafety.gov.
Conclusion on Ground Beef and Broccoli
Embracing Homemade Meals in Your Busy Life
In today’s fast-paced world, taking the time to cook Ground Beef and Broccoli not only nourishes your body but also fosters connection with family over a home-cooked meal. Prioritizing homemade meals can be fun, fulfilling, and a fantastic way to manage family time.
For more tips on meal planning and easy recipes, check resources like The Spruce Eats or EatingWell. You’ve got this!
Ground Beef and Broccoli
Equipment
- Medium bowl
- Covered container
- dutch oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon peanut oil can substitute vegetable or olive oil
- 3 cups broccoli florets washed and patted dry
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper sliced
- Salt/White Pepper to taste
Sauce
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 Tablespoons cold water
- 1 cup beef broth
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 Tablespoons brown sugar packed
- 1-2 Tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
For Serving
- 3 cups cooked rice any kind
Instructions
Prep Work
- Combine cornstarch + 2 Tablespoons water in a covered container and shake to combine. Place in a cool location.
- Combine remaining sauce ingredients in a medium bowl and set aside. Start with 1 tablespoon of honey and add another at the end if desired.
Cook the Broccoli
- Heat the oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli and toss to coat. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until slightly softened. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Beef
- Season the beef with salt/white pepper if desired. Cook and crumble the ground beef and diced onions over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Drain grease. Add sliced bell peppers and cook for 1 minute.
Add the Sauce
- Add sauce mixture and bring to a boil. Let it simmer/reduce for 2-3 minutes. Shake the cornstarch mixture, then slowly stir it into the sauce. Let it continue to bubble gently until desired thickness is obtained.
Add the Broccoli Back
- Reduce heat to low. Add broccoli back and stir to combine and heat through. Garnish with green onions and serve over rice!
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