Ground Beef Broccoli: A Flavorful Journey

Ground Beef Broccoli. Just the name conjures up images of a comforting, savory dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal. I’ve always loved this recipe, and I’m excited to share my take on this classic, which blends the heartiness of ground beef with the vibrant freshness of broccoli.

While the exact origins of Ground Beef Broccoli are difficult to pinpoint, its popularity speaks volumes. It’s a dish that transcends cultural boundaries, finding its way onto tables across the globe. Its adaptability is a key factor in its widespread appeal; you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences and what you have on hand. Perhaps its popularity stems from its simplicity and speed; it’s a quick and easy meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Broccoli Recipe

This isn’t your average Ground Beef Broccoli recipe. I’ve perfected the sauce to achieve a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet, coating each tender piece of beef and broccoli in a delicious, umami-rich glaze. The texture is key; the beef is cooked to perfection, juicy and flavorful, while the broccoli retains a satisfying crunch. It’s a dish that satisfies both your cravings for comfort food and your desire for a healthy, balanced meal. The combination of rich ground beef and crisp-tender broccoli is simply irresistible!

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Ground Beef Broccoli recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Get ready to experience the deliciousness for yourself!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10 ounce) package frozen broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
• Cooked rice, for serving

Preparing the Beef and Vegetables

1. I always start by browning the ground beef. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Once the beef is browned, I push it to the side of the pan. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the pan. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. I like to stir frequently to prevent burning.
3. Next, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Now, it’s time for the broccoli! Add the frozen broccoli florets to the pan and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Don’t thaw the broccoli beforehand; it will cook perfectly in the pan.
5. Add the sliced red bell pepper and stir everything together. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the broccoli is slightly tender-crisp.

Creating the Sauce

6. In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, sesame oil, and ground ginger. Make sure there are no lumps of cornstarch.
7. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Stir well to combine everything.
8. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coats the beef and vegetables nicely. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
9. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. I usually add a pinch of salt at a time, tasting as I go.

Serving Your Delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli

10. Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded, your Ground Beef and Broccoli is ready! Serve it hot over a bed of cooked rice.
11. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired, for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
12. Enjoy your homemade Ground Beef and Broccoli! It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Tips and Variations

1. For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of beef broth and chicken broth.
2. If you prefer a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
3. Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots, mushrooms, or snow peas.
4. For a thicker sauce, increase the amount of cornstarch to 3 tablespoons.
5. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They reheat well in the microwave or on the stovetop.
6. To make this dish ahead of time, prepare all the ingredients and the sauce separately. Combine everything just before cooking and follow the instructions above.
7. Consider using a different type of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, for a leaner option. Adjust the seasoning accordingly.
8. For a healthier version, reduce the amount of oil used and opt for brown rice instead of white rice.
9. Experiment with different types of soy sauce, such as tamari or coconut aminos, for a unique flavor profile.
10. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Taste as you go and add more or less of any ingredient to suit your preferences. Cooking is all about experimentation and finding what tastes best to you!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! My recipe for Ground Beef Broccoli. I truly believe this dish deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation, and here’s why: it’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. The ingredients are readily available and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option without compromising on flavor. The combination of savory ground beef, tender-crisp broccoli florets, and a rich, umami-packed sauce is simply irresistible. It’s a complete meal in itself, offering a satisfying balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates.

Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this Ground Beef Broccoli recipe is incredibly versatile. I love its adaptability; you can easily tailor it to your preferences and what you have on hand. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply simmer it for a few more minutes, or whisk in a cornstarch slurry at the end. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables too! Adding sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots would be a fantastic way to boost the nutritional value and add more vibrant colors to your plate.

For those who prefer a lighter meal, you can easily reduce the amount of oil used in the recipe. Alternatively, you could substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option. And for a vegetarian twist, swap the ground beef for crumbled firm tofu or mushrooms, adjusting the seasoning accordingly. The possibilities are truly endless!

Serving Suggestions:

This Ground Beef Broccoli is fantastic served over fluffy white rice, which perfectly soaks up the delicious sauce. It also pairs beautifully with egg noodles or even quinoa for a healthier alternative. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a side of steamed rice, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. The contrasting textures and flavors will elevate the entire dining experience.

Variations to Explore:

I encourage you to get creative and experiment with different variations of this recipe. Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a touch of brightness. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a delightful nutty flavor and textural contrast. For a richer flavor profile, consider using soy sauce instead of regular salt. You can even incorporate some ginger or garlic for an extra layer of aromatic complexity.

Share Your Culinary Creations!

I’d love to hear about your experience making this Ground Beef Broccoli recipe! Once you’ve tried it, please share your thoughts and photos on social media using the hashtag #MyGroundBeefBroccoli. I can’t wait to see your culinary creations and hear about any modifications you’ve made. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to improve my recipes and share delicious meals with everyone.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying and flavorful Ground Beef Broccoli meal. It’s a recipe that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite in no time. Happy cooking!