How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Deliciously Easy

Are you looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love? Well, you’re in for a treat! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Ground Beef and Broccoli. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate healthy veggies into your dinner routine. If you’re a fan of easy pasta recipes, you’ll find this dish to be a delightful change of pace!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick family dinners that are ready in 30 minutes.
• Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
• Healthy and satisfying, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Versatile—serve it over rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps!
• A great way to sneak in some veggies for the kids.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 3-4 cups broccoli florets (see note)
• 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground sirloin)
• 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 8-10 cranks freshly-ground black pepper
• Sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering dish:

1. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the broccoli and cook, tossing frequently, for 3-4 minutes, until it is vibrantly green with a tender-crisp texture. Remove to a plate and set aside.
2. Add ground beef and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, until mostly browned, breaking it up into small pieces as you go. Drain or use a paper towel to soak up excess fat.
3. While the beef browns, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, ginger, red and black pepper in a small bowl or liquid measuring cup. Whisk until smooth.
4. As soon as the beef is browned, pour in the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes more, just until the sauce thickens slightly. Return broccoli to the pan and toss to coat. Season with salt to taste, and serve right away over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds, as desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Ground Beef and Broccoli turns out perfectly:

• For a bit of crunch, try adding some chopped cashews or peanuts as a topping.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
• Feel free to swap out the broccoli for other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for a different flavor profile.
• This dish is also great for meal prep—make a double batch and enjoy it for lunch throughout the week!

How to Serve

Ground Beef and Broccoli is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice for a classic combination.
• Try it with noodles for a comforting twist—think of it as a savory take on easy beef stir fry.
• For a low-carb option, serve it in lettuce wraps for a fresh and crunchy meal.
• Pair it with a side of steamed rice or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Broccoli dish is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
• If you want to make it ahead of time, you can prepare the beef and sauce separately and combine them with the broccoli just before serving.

In conclusion, this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of weeknight dinner ideas. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to for busy families. If you’re looking for more delicious options, check out my Beef and Broccoli or Chinese Beef Broccoli recipes for more inspiration. Happy cooking!