This tasty Ground Beef and Broccoli dish is quick and easy! With juicy beef and fresh, crunchy broccoli, it’s a meal that pleases everyone at the table.
I love how colorful this dish looks when it’s done. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies! Serve it over rice, and you’ve got a winner dinner! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier dish. If you’re looking to cut down on fat or prefer a different flavor, ground turkey or chicken works well too. I’ve even tried ground pork, which adds a nice twist!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are best for this recipe, giving texture and flavor. However, frozen broccoli can be a great shortcut—just make sure to thaw and drain it before use. I’ve learned that fresh broccoli brightens the dish up beautifully.
Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice is perfect, but you can substitute it with white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa if you’re looking for a healthier grain. Personally, I love jasmine for its aroma and softness!
Oyster Sauce: This adds depth to the flavor, but if you’re avoiding it, try hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a bit of sugar. I often skip it and still enjoy the dish plenty!
Sesame Oil: This oil gives an aromatic finish. If unavailable, you can use any mild vegetable oil, but consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that authentic touch. It’s one of my go-to ingredients!
How Do I Get the Beef Perfectly Browned?
Getting your ground beef browned just right is key to flavor. You want it cooked thoroughly while keeping it juicy. Here’s how you can achieve perfect browning:
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding the beef. This helps sear it quickly.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the beef in batches.
- Let the beef cook undisturbed for a minute or two before stirring. This helps form a nice crust.
- Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart as it cooks, ensuring even color.
Once you see that nice brown color with some crispy bits, you’re ready for the next steps! Enjoy the rich flavor it brings to the dish!
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or rice of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. This step is key for a flavorful base!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula. Keep cooking until the beef is browned and no longer pink. If there’s a lot of excess fat in the skillet, you may want to drain some out.
3. Add Broccoli and Sauces:
Mix in the broccoli florets along with the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), and sesame oil. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5 minutes. The goal is for the broccoli to become bright green and tender but still a little crisp.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with the beef broth or water until it’s smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the beef and broccoli.
5. Final Seasoning and Serve:
Season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. Once everything is well combined, serve the ground beef and broccoli mixture over the cooked jasmine rice. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra touch!
## FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw it first. Just add it directly to the skillet with the ground beef and sauces, and cook for an extra minute to ensure it’s heated through and tender.
What Can I Substitute for Oyster Sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce or prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with an extra tablespoon of soy sauce mixed with a teaspoon of sugar for sweetness. This will give you a similar flavor profile without the seafood element.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply use the microwave or a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or beef broth to moisten it as needed.
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Yes! You can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute. Just be mindful of cooking times, as they may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.
