I’ve always been a fan of quick weeknight dinners that don’t skimp on flavor, and let me tell you, this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. Picture this: tender broccoli florets mingling with savory ground beef in a glossy, umami-packed sauce that hits all the right notes. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a takeout pro without the hassle or extra cost. In my experience, whipping up this homemade Ground Beef and Broccoli is not only faster than ordering in but also way more satisfying.
What I love most about Ground Beef and Broccoli is how versatile it is—you can tweak it to your mood or what’s in the fridge. Last week, I made it for my family, and even the picky eaters went back for seconds. It’s hearty, healthy, and ready in under 30 minutes, which is a game-changer on busy evenings. If you’re craving something comforting yet light, this easy Ground Beef and Broccoli is calling your name. I’m excited to share the steps so you can try it yourself and see why it’s my go-to comfort food.
Key Takeaways:
- Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick, 25-minute meal packed with protein and veggies for a balanced dinner.
- Minimal prep makes this Ground Beef and Broccoli perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing taste.
- The savory sauce elevates the simple Ground Beef and Broccoli into a restaurant-quality dish.
- Use fresh broccoli for the best crunch, but frozen works in a pinch for this Ground Beef and Broccoli.
- Store leftovers of your Ground Beef and Broccoli in the fridge for up to 3 days to enjoy later.
Why You’ll Adore This Ground Beef and Broccoli
Quick and Effortless Prep: Here’s the thing—life’s too short for complicated recipes, right? This Ground Beef and Broccoli comes together in just 25 minutes with everyday ingredients you probably already have. It’s ideal for those nights when you’re racing against the clock but still want a homemade meal that feels special.
Nutrient-Packed Goodness: Loaded with lean protein from the beef and fiber from the broccoli, this dish keeps you full without weighing you down. I always feel good serving this Ground Beef and Broccoli because it’s a sneaky way to get more greens into dinner. Plus, the vibrant colors make it appealing even for kids.
Explosive Flavor in Every Bite: That glossy sauce? It’s the star of the show, blending soy, garlic, and a touch of sweetness for umami magic. You’ll find yourself savoring each forkful of this delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli, and trust me, it beats any takeout version hands down.
Budget-Friendly Family Favorite: Who doesn’t love a meal that’s both wallet-friendly and crowd-pleasing? Ground beef is affordable, and broccoli stretches it further, making this Ground Beef and Broccoli a smart choice for feeding a group. I’ve made it for potlucks, and it always gets rave reviews—now you can too!
Essential Ingredients for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep things healthy without losing that juicy texture—it’s the hearty base that makes this dish so satisfying. In my Ground Beef and Broccoli, it soaks up all the sauce flavors, turning simple protein into something crave-worthy. I usually go for 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and fat. Don’t overcook it, though; you want it tender and browned just right.
Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli is key here—cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and that satisfying crunch. It adds a pop of green and nutrients that complement the rich beef beautifully in your Ground Beef and Broccoli. Steaming or stir-frying keeps it vibrant, not mushy. If you’re like me, you’ll appreciate how it balances the savory elements.
Soy Sauce and Garlic: These are the flavor powerhouses; low-sodium soy sauce brings umami without excess salt, while fresh garlic adds that aromatic kick. Together, they create the glossy sauce that coats every piece in this Ground Beef and Broccoli. I’ve experimented, and minced garlic fresh from the clove makes all the difference—it’s pungent and oh-so-good. A bit of ginger can amp it up if you have it on hand.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Prep and Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil—I’ve found avocado oil works great for its high smoke point. Add your ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes; this is where the savory foundation of your Ground Beef and Broccoli begins to build. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper as it cooks, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning. In my experience, letting it get a nice sear locks in those juices, making the final dish incredibly flavorful. Drain excess fat if needed, but leave a little for richness.
Cook the Broccoli and Aromatics
While the beef is cooking, chop your broccoli into florets and mince the garlic and ginger— the aroma alone will have you hungry! Push the beef to one side of the skillet and add the broccoli, stirring for 3-4 minutes until it brightens and starts to soften but still has bite; timing is everything here for that perfect texture. Toss in the garlic and ginger next, sautéing for another minute until fragrant—don’t let it burn, or it’ll turn bitter. The sizzle and steam create this inviting scent that fills the kitchen, reminding me why I love cooking this Ground Beef and Broccoli so much. Add a splash of water if it sticks, keeping everything moving smoothly.
Combine with Sauce and Simmer
Now, whisk together soy sauce, a touch of honey or brown sugar, cornstarch for thickening, and a bit of beef broth to make the sauce—it’s simple but transformative for your Ground Beef and Broccoli. Pour it over the beef and broccoli mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly, then let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the ingredients beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning; I often add a dash more soy for depth. The colors pop, and the flavors meld in this final step, creating that glossy finish you see in restaurant versions. For a twist, check out our Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe for more inspiration.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean)
- 4 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Ground Beef and Broccoli Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Add broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Add minced garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, and beef broth. Pour over the beef and broccoli. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens. Serve hot, garnished if desired.
Pro Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Broccoli
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed to keep the beef browning nicely instead of steaming—this ensures your Ground Beef and Broccoli stays flavorful.
Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli: If using frozen, thaw and pat dry first to avoid excess moisture that can make your Ground Beef and Broccoli watery.
Thicken the Sauce Just Right: Always stir the cornstarch slurry well before adding; a quick whisk prevents lumps in your delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli.
You Must Know
- This Ground Beef and Broccoli is naturally gluten-free if you use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- It’s high in protein, with about 25 grams per serving, making it great for meal prep.
- The sauce thickens as it cools, so if reheating, add a splash of broth to loosen it up.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes during cooking to elevate your Ground Beef and Broccoli.
How to Store Ground Beef and Broccoli
Once cooled, transfer your Ground Beef and Broccoli to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days—it’s perfect for leftovers that taste even better the next day. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer bags for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of water or broth to revive the sauce’s glossiness without drying out the beef or broccoli.
Customizing Your Ground Beef and Broccoli
Feeling adventurous? Swap ground beef for turkey to lighten it up, or add bell peppers for extra color and crunch in your Ground Beef and Broccoli. If you’re vegetarian, tofu crumbles work wonderfully as a sub, keeping that stir-fry vibe intact. For a low-carb twist, serve over cauliflower rice instead of noodles. Check out our Korean Ground Beef Bowl for more variation ideas that pair perfectly.
What to Serve with Ground Beef and Broccoli
This dish shines over steamed white or brown rice to soak up that amazing sauce, but jasmine rice adds a fragrant touch I adore. Pair it with a simple cucumber salad for freshness, or egg rolls on the side for a fun, complete meal. For drinks, iced green tea cuts through the richness, or try a light beer if you’re feeling casual. Don’t forget garlic bread if you want to bulk it up—it’s a hit every time.
Ground Beef and Broccoli
This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is an easy 30 minute meal with a simple, flavorful sauce that your family will love eating with vegetables!
Timing
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 01 1 Tablespoon peanut oil (can sub vegetable or olive)
- 02 3 cups broccoli florets (washed and patted dry)
- 03 1 lb. ground beef
- 04 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 05 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 06 Salt/White Pepper (to taste)
- 07 2 Tablespoons cornstarch (+ 2 tablespoons cold water)
- 08 1 cup beef broth
- 09 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 10 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 11 1-2 tablespoons honey
- 12 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 13 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 14 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 15 3 cups cooked rice (any kind)
FILED UNDER:
NUTRITION FACTS (PER SERVING)
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef and Broccoli
Can I make Ground Beef and Broccoli ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can prep the components separately and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before stir-frying. Just cook fresh when ready to eat for the best texture in your Ground Beef and Broccoli. It’s a lifesaver for weeknight ease.
How long does Ground Beef and Broccoli last in the fridge?
Your Ground Beef and Broccoli will keep well in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat gently to maintain flavor—microwaving works, but stovetop is better for even warming. Always check for freshness before eating.
Is Ground Beef and Broccoli keto-friendly?
Yes, it fits keto with its low carbs from broccoli and protein-packed beef—just skip the honey in the sauce or use a keto sweetener. It’s a go-to for low-carb dinners in my house.
Can I use frozen broccoli in Ground Beef and Broccoli?
Definitely, frozen broccoli saves time and works great in this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe. Thaw and drain it first to prevent sogginess, and adjust cooking time by a minute or two. It’s convenient without compromising taste.
What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?
Ground beef is ideal for quick cooking and even flavor distribution. Opt for 85% lean to balance juiciness—if you’re watching fat, go leaner, but add a bit more oil.
How can I make Ground Beef and Broccoli spicier?
Add chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh chilies to the sauce while cooking for heat that complements the savory notes in your Ground Beef and Broccoli. Start with a teaspoon and taste as you go. For more ideas, try our High Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp, which has a spicy option.
Can kids eat Ground Beef and Broccoli?
Kids usually love the familiar beef and broccoli combo, especially with the sweet sauce. Finely chop the broccoli if needed, and serve over rice to make it kid-friendly fun.
Is there a slow cooker version of Ground Beef and Broccoli?
While this is a quick stir-fry, you can adapt it for the crockpot by browning beef first, then slow-cooking with sauce and broccoli for 2-3 hours on low. See our Crockpot Chili Recipe for more slow-cooker tips that apply here.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a well-made Ground Beef and Broccoli that brings everyone to the table with smiles. From the quick prep to the bold flavors, it’s the kind of recipe that fits seamlessly into busy lives while delivering big on taste. I encourage you to give this easy Ground Beef and Broccoli a whirl tonight—you won’t regret it, and I’d love to hear how it turns out in the comments!