Ground Beef and Broccoli

There’s something deeply comforting about a dish that comes together in minutes yet tastes like it’s been simmering with love all day. That’s exactly how I feel about this Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe—a humble, hearty meal that never fails to satisfy. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday, this dish has saved me more times than I can count. It’s the kind of meal that makes you pause mid-bite, close your eyes, and think, “Yes, this is exactly what I needed.”

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this cozy, flavorful dish:

• 1 lb ground beef – I prefer 85% lean for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
• 3 cups broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen both work beautifully here.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – Because garlic makes everything better.
• 1 small onion, diced – Yellow or white onions add a subtle sweetness.
• 1/3 cup soy sauce – Use low-sodium if you’re watching salt intake.
• 2 tbsp brown sugar – Just enough to balance the savory notes.
• 1 tbsp sesame oil – This adds that irresistible nutty aroma.
• 1 tsp ginger, grated – Fresh ginger gives it a bright, zesty kick.
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes – Optional, but great for a little heat.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch – To thicken the sauce to silky perfection.
• 2 tbsp water – For mixing with the cornstarch.
• Sesame seeds and green onions – For garnish, because we eat with our eyes first!

How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli

This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a weeknight hero. Here’s how to do it:

1. Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the onion and garlic to the skillet, stirring until fragrant—about 2 minutes. The smell alone will have your kitchen feeling like a cozy bistro.
3. Whisk the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Pour this over the beef and stir well to coat.
4. Add the broccoli: Toss in the broccoli florets and stir to combine. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 4–5 minutes, just until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
5. Thicken the sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and water, then pour it into the skillet. Stir continuously as the sauce thickens into a glossy, velvety coating—about 1–2 minutes.
6. Serve and enjoy: Dish it up hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions. A bowl of steamed rice is the perfect companion!

Tip: If you like your broccoli extra tender, blanch it for 1–2 minutes in boiling water before adding it to the skillet. This ensures it stays vibrant green and perfectly cooked.

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is wonderfully adaptable to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Protein Swap: Not a fan of ground beef? Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian twist.
• Veggie Boost: Add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas for extra color and nutrients.
• Spice It Up: Love heat? A dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha will give this dish a nice kick.
• Sauce Variations: Swap the soy sauce for coconut aminos if you’re avoiding gluten, or add a teaspoon of hoisin sauce for a touch of sweetness.

What to Serve It With

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple sides:

• Steamed Rice: White, brown, or jasmine rice soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that keeps things light.
• Egg Noodles: For a comforting, noodle-bowl experience.
• Quick Pickled Veggies: A tangy cucumber or carrot salad adds a refreshing crunch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? No problem! This dish keeps well and tastes just as good the next day.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce. Microwave works too—just cover to prevent splatters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just thaw and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

How do I make it less salty?
Reduce the soy sauce slightly or use low-sodium soy sauce. You can also balance it with a squeeze of honey or a splash of rice vinegar.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep the ingredients in advance and cook when ready. The flavors meld even more if stored overnight.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The mild flavors and tender beef and broccoli are usually a hit with little ones. If they’re picky, try cutting the broccoli into smaller pieces.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about a meal that’s quick, wholesome, and packed with flavor. This Ground Beef and Broccoli is exactly that—a weeknight hero that never disappoints. Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a regular in your rotation. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!