This dish is a fun mix of juicy ground beef and crisp broccoli, all tossed together in a tasty sauce. It’s quick to make, making it perfect for busy nights!
I love how the beef gets all flavorful and the broccoli adds a nice crunch. Serve it over rice, and you’ve got a meal that’s super easy and yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For this recipe, I recommend using lean ground beef (like 85/15) to keep it healthier and avoid excess grease. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option. Plant-based ground meat is also great for a vegetarian take!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the best flavor and texture, but if you’re short on time, frozen florets work just fine. They are already prepped and save you a step! You could also use other veggies like snap peas or bell peppers for variety.
White Rice: I usually stick with long-grain white rice, but brown rice is a healthier choice. You could also try quinoa or cauliflower rice if you’re looking for something lower in carbs.
Oyster Sauce: While this sauce adds a nice depth to the dish, it’s optional. If you don’t have it, you could replace it with a bit more soy sauce or hoisin sauce for extra flavor.
How Do I Make Sure the Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef perfectly can be tricky, but here’s a simple method to ensure it turns out great every time:
- Start with a hot skillet to sear the beef, which helps lock in the juices.
- Use a spatula to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks, which helps it brown evenly.
- Cook it until there’s no pink left, about 5-7 minutes. It should be well-browned for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if you’re making a large batch, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups white rice (uncooked)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the rice, and 20 minutes to make the ground beef and broccoli. It’s quick, easy, and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by cooking the white rice according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, fluff it with a fork and set it aside. This will serve as the base for your meal.
2. Sauté Garlic and Ginger:
In a large pan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. This will give your dish a flavorful kick!
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pan. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir it frequently and cook until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the Broccoli:
Stir in the broccoli florets. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. You want them to still have a bit of bite, so don’t overcook!
5. Prepare the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix the soy sauce, beef broth (or water), and oyster sauce if you’re using it. Then, stir in the cornstarch until it’s fully dissolved. This will help your sauce thicken nicely.
6. Combine Everything:
Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and broccoli in the skillet. Stir well to combine everything, then bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit. Your kitchen will smell wonderful!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Now it’s time to serve! Spoon the beef and broccoli mixture over your cooked rice. Finish it off by garnishing with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw it beforehand. Just add it directly to the skillet, but you might need to cook it a bit longer (around 5-7 minutes) until it’s heated through and tender-crisp.
What Can I Use Instead of Oyster Sauce?
If you prefer to omit oyster sauce or can’t find it, you can substitute it with an equal amount of hoisin sauce, which will provide a nice sweetness. Alternatively, mix 1 tablespoon of soy sauce with a bit of brown sugar for a similar flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or warm it on the stove over low heat. If the sauce is too thick after reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Make This Recipe with Other Proteins?
Yes! This recipe is versatile. You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as lean meats cook faster than beef, while tofu may need a bit more time to absorb flavors.
