Introduction to Ground Beef and Broccoli
Why Homemade Meals Matter
In today’s fast-paced world, taking time to cook a homemade meal can feel like a luxury. However, homemade meals aren’t just about saving money—they're also about nurturing ourselves and our loved ones. Preparing your own dishes, like this delicious ground beef and broccoli recipe, allows you to control ingredients, ensuring that everything you serve is fresh and nutritious.
Cooking at home also fosters creativity; you can tweak flavors and add personal touches that make the meal uniquely yours. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, home-cooked meals tend to be healthier, offering lower calories and sugar levels compared to restaurant food. Plus, there's something truly rewarding about gathering around the table with friends and family, enjoying a meal that you’ve prepared yourself.
This ground beef and broccoli dish marries flavors and textures beautifully while being simple and quick to whip up—perfect for busy evenings! With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you can indulge in a nutritious and satisfying dinner that everyone will love. Ready to dive into the recipe? Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Essential Ingredients
When whipping up a tasty dish of ground beef and broccoli, you'll want to stock your kitchen with the essentials to ensure delightful flavors. Here’s what you need:
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable/olive oil as substitutes)
- 3 cups broccoli florets, washed and dried
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced for that savory base
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced for a dash of color
- Salt and white pepper to taste
For the sauce:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (plus 2 tablespoons cold water)
- 1 cup beef broth
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar (packed for sweetness)
- 1-2 tablespoons honey for added stickiness
- 2 cloves garlic, minced for aromatic goodness
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil to amplify the flavor
Optional Ingredients
Feel free to experiment and personalize your ground beef and broccoli. Here are some optional ingredients that can elevate your dish:
- Julienned carrots, for a crunchy texture
- Water chestnuts for a bit of crispness
- Crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a kick
- Sliced green onions for garnish
- Sesame seeds for an added nutty flair
By incorporating these optional ingredients, you can give your meal a unique touch that you and your loved ones will appreciate. Happy cooking!
Preparing Ground Beef and Broccoli
Creating a delicious Ground Beef and Broccoli dish is easier than you might think! With just a few steps and fresh ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal that pleases the whole family. Let’s dive into how to prepare this mouthwatering dish!
Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 Tablespoon peanut oil (you can substitute with vegetable or olive oil)
- 3 cups broccoli florets, washed and patted dry
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- Salt and white pepper to taste
For the sauce, make sure you have:
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 cup beef broth
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1-2 Tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Having everything ready means you won’t be scrambling for ingredients while cooking!
Cook the Broccoli to Perfection
Start by heating the peanut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the broccoli florets. Toss them gently to coat in the oil and let them cook for about 4-5 minutes until they’re slightly softened but still vibrant green. This step makes a huge difference in texture and flavor—trust me! Once cooked, remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside.
Brown the Ground Beef and Onions
In the same skillet, it’s time to cook the ground beef. Add the diced onions to the pan, season with some salt and white pepper, and let them sauté for a few minutes. The aim here is to brown the ground beef while breaking it up into smaller pieces. When it’s nicely cooked through, drain any excess grease.
Mix in the Bell Peppers
Now that your beef and onions are ready, it’s time to add those colorful bell peppers. Stir them in and cook for an additional minute until they’re slightly tender. This adds a lovely crunch and sweetness to your Ground Beef and Broccoli.
Prepare the Flavorful Sauce
While your beef and vegetables are cooking, whisk together the sauce ingredients in a bowl. Combine the cornstarch slurry with beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, and sesame oil. This sauce is what brings everything together, and you’ll love how it complements the savory components of the dish.
Combine Everything and Let It Simmer
Now comes the fun part! Pour the sauce into the skillet with the beef and peppers. Bring it to a gentle boil, and allow it to bubble for 2-3 minutes while it thickens slightly. After that, add the cooked broccoli back into the mixture. Stir everything together and let it simmer on low heat for an additional minute or two to infuse all those delicious flavors. Serve your Ground Beef and Broccoli over a bed of cooked rice, and enjoy!
With these steps, you'll have a hearty, flavorful meal in no time. Happy cooking!
Variations on Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ground Turkey or Ground Chicken Options
For a leaner twist on this classic dish, consider using ground turkey or ground chicken. They both provide a similar texture while reducing the overall fat content. Plus, these proteins are versatile enough to soak up the delicious flavors of the sauce. If you're following a health-conscious diet, these options will make your ground beef and broccoli dish feel lighter yet still satisfying.
Additional Vegetables & Flavors
Feel free to get creative with your vegetables! Ingredients like julienned carrots, sliced bell peppers, or even water chestnuts can add crunch and vibrant color to your meal. Looking to amplify flavors? A splash of fresh lime juice or a hint of Sriracha can elevate your dish. Adding toppings such as crunchy chow mein noodles or chopped peanuts can take your ground beef and broccoli from simple to spectacular. Want more ideas? Check out this article on stir-fry variations for even more inspiration!
Cooking notes for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Tips for perfect broccoli texture
For those perfectly tender-crisp broccoli florets, begin by blanching them in boiling water for just 2-3 minutes. This quick cook softens them while retaining that vibrant green color and nice crunch. If you prefer a bit of char, toss them in when you sear your ground beef—just keep an eye on them!
Adjusting sauce thickness
If you like your sauce thicker, gradually add more cornstarch mixed with water as it simmers. Keep stirring to avoid lumps. For a thinner sauce, add a splash more beef broth or water. Adjust it to your taste; balance is key for a delightful ground beef and broccoli experience!
Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Recommended Rice Pairings
The perfect base for your ground beef and broccoli dish starts with a delicious rice pairing. Consider these options:
- Jasmine Rice: Its fragrant nature complements the savory flavors beautifully.
- Brown Rice: For a nutty taste and added fiber, opt for brown rice; it's a healthier choice overall!
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice brings freshness while absorbing the delicious sauce.
Creative Garnish Ideas
Elevate your ground beef and broccoli with some creative garnishes. Try these:
- Green Onions: Chopped for a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted for added crunch and a subtle nuttiness.
- Crunchy Chow Mein Noodles: Toss some on top for texture and extra crunch.
- Chopped Peanuts: For a delightful crunch and a taste of the exotic.
These simple additions can transform your meal into a stunning presentation that tastes as good as it looks!
Time Breakdown for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Preparation Time
Getting your ingredients ready is a breeze! You’ll only need about 10 minutes to chop vegetables and mix up the sauce.
Cooking Time
Once you're prepped, the actual cooking doesn't take long at all. Expect to spend about 20 minutes sautéing and simmering.
Total Time
In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a delicious and satisfying meal of Ground Beef and Broccoli, perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy your quick cooking adventure!
For more meal ideas, check out these delicious recipes.
Nutritional Facts for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Calories and Macronutrients
In a serving of ground beef and broccoli, you'll find approximately 488 calories. This meal offers a good balance of macronutrients:
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 11g
This dish is protein-rich, making it an excellent choice for muscle repair and energy.
Important Vitamins and Minerals
Ground beef and broccoli aren't just filling—they're packed with essential nutrients:
- Vitamin A: Promotes healthy vision and immune function.
- Vitamin C: Aids in collagen production and boosts immunity.
- Iron: Crucial for transporting oxygen in the blood.
- Fiber: Supports digestive health.
Incorporating this colorful dish into your diet can enhance overall wellness, enriching your meals with both flavor and nutrition!
For more in-depth nutritional information, consider checking these resources from the USDA.
FAQs about Ground Beef and Broccoli
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a convenient alternative that can save you prep time. Just be sure to thaw and pat it dry before adding it to your dish. It cooks beautifully and retains its vibrant green color and nutrients, making it a great choice for our ground beef and broccoli recipe.
What are good side dishes to serve?
Pairing your ground beef and broccoli dish with a tasty side can elevate your meal experience. Consider options like:
- Steamed rice (brown or jasmine)
- Quinoa for a protein-packed alternative
- Crisp salads with light dressings
- Garlic bread for a nice, hearty touch
How can I adjust the recipe for meal prep?
Meal prepping with ground beef and broccoli is a breeze! Make a larger batch and portion it into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. You can also prep the meat and sauce in advance, as they store well in the fridge. Just cook fresh rice or reheating it when you're ready to enjoy. Not only does this save time, but it ensures you have delicious meals ready to go!
Conclusion on Ground Beef and Broccoli
In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a hearty and delicious ground beef and broccoli dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. With its savory sauce and vibrant vegetables, this meal will satisfy your cravings and impress your loved ones. Enjoy it with rice for a complete dining experience!
Ground Beef and Broccoli
Equipment
- medium bowl
- covered container
- Dutch oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon peanut oil can substitute vegetable or olive oil
- 3 cups broccoli florets washed and patted dry
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper sliced
- to taste salt
- to taste white pepper
Sauce
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 Tablespoons cold water
- 1 cup beef broth
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 Tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1-2 Tablespoons honey start with 1 tablespoon and add more if desired
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
For Serving
- 3 cups cooked rice any kind
Instructions
Prep Work
- Combine cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water in a covered container and shake to combine. Place in a cool location.
- Combine remaining sauce ingredients in a medium bowl and set aside, starting with 1 tablespoon of honey.
Cook the Broccoli
- Heat the oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli and toss to coat. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until slightly softened. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Beef
- Season the beef with salt/white pepper if desired. Cook and crumble the ground beef and diced onions over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Drain grease. Add sliced bell peppers and cook for 1 minute.
Add the Sauce
- Add sauce mixture and bring to a boil. Let it simmer/reduce for 2-3 minutes. Shake the cornstarch mixture, then slowly stir it into the sauce. Continue cooking until desired thickness is obtained.
Add the Broccoli Back
- Reduce heat to low. Add broccoli back and stir to combine and heat through. Garnish with green onions and serve over rice.
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