Introduction to Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Why You Should Try This Recipe Today
When it comes to quick weeknight meals, easy ground beef and broccoli stir fry ranks high on the list! Not only is it a flavorful dish that brings together fresh vegetables and savory beef, but it also allows you to whip up something impressive in just 25 minutes. Imagine coming home after a long day and cooking a wholesome dinner that will leave your family asking for seconds!
In today's busy world, finding recipes that are both fast and satisfying can be a challenge. This stir fry delivers on taste and convenience, making it perfect for professionals or home cooks alike. Whether you’re catering to picky eaters or trying to incorporate more veggies into your meals, broccoli is a great option, packed with fiber and vitamins.
Plus, with ingredients like low-sodium soy sauce and brown sugar, this dish balances savory and sweet, more than pleasing the palate. For those who enjoy experimenting, this recipe opens the door to variations—consider adding different veggies or proteins! So grab your skillet, and let’s get cooking. You won’t regret giving this delightful easy ground beef and broccoli stir fry a try tonight.
Ingredients for Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Creating a delicious easy ground beef and broccoli stir fry starts with having the right ingredients on hand. Here’s a breakdown to help you gather everything you need for this quick and satisfying meal!
Essential ingredients
To whip up this dish, you'll need the following:
- 4 cups broccoli florets: Fresh is best for that perfect crunch.
- 1 cup onion: Yellow or white, sliced for sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil: Vegetable or peanut oil works wonders here.
- 1 lb ground beef: For a juicy base; 80/20 is ideal for flavor.
- 1 ½ cups low sodium beef broth: Keeps it moist and adds richness.
- ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce: For that umami kick.
- 2 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the savory notes perfectly.
- 3 cloves garlic and 2 teaspoon ginger paste: Aromatic powerhouses.
- 2 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoon cold water: To thicken the sauce.
Optional ingredients for customization
Feel free to get creative! Here are some optional ingredients that can elevate your stir fry:
- Red pepper flakes: Add more heat to your liking!
- Toasted sesame seeds: A beautiful garnish and nutty flavor.
- Additional vegetables: Think bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for color and nutrition.
For more inspiration on customizing stir-fry dishes, check out The Spruce Eats, where they offer great tips on using seasonal vegetables! With everything ready, you're just minutes away from a flavorful dinner that'll impress your taste buds and anyone around the table!
Preparing Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
If you’re on the hunt for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner, look no further! This easy ground beef and broccoli stir fry is not only a crowd-pleaser but is also incredibly straightforward to make. Let’s dive into the steps to prepare this delightful dish that’s sure to impress your family or friends.
Cook the rice
Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions or your preferred method. White rice pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the stir fry, soaking up all those delicious flavors. If you want to switch it up, consider using brown rice or even quinoa for added nutrition.
Prep your veggies
Next, it’s time to get your veggies ready for that scrumptious stir fry. Trim 4 cups of broccoli florets from the stalk, ensuring they’re roughly the same size for even cooking. Additionally, slice up about half a yellow or white onion and mince some garlic and ginger, which will add a lovely depth to the dish. Fresh ingredients truly make a difference, don’t you think?
Mix the savory sauce
In a measuring cup, stir together the sauce ingredients: 1.5 cups of low-sodium beef broth, ¼ cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 2 teaspoons of ginger paste, and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for that kick. For the final touch, make a slurry by combining 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Set everything aside while you move on to cooking the main components.
Sauté the broccoli and onions
Heat a large skillet over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of your preferred cooking oil. Toss in the broccoli and sliced onions, sautéing them for about 4-5 minutes until the broccoli retains a slight crunch and the onions turn golden brown. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps to maintain that vibrant green color in the broccoli!
Brown the ground beef
Now, it’s time to add that hearty protein! In the same skillet, brown 1 pound of grass-fed ground beef over medium-high heat until there’s no pink left. This usually takes around 4-5 minutes. You can choose to drain any excess fat if you want a lighter dish; however, I prefer to skip this step to keep the sauce rich and flavorful.
Combine and simmer the stir fry
Once the beef is browned, pour in your prepared sauce mixture and stir to blend everything. Add the cornstarch slurry, allowing the sauce to thicken for about 2-3 minutes. Finally, fold in the sautéed broccoli and onions, ensuring everything is well-coated in that delicious sauce. Serve immediately over your fluffy rice, and if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for that extra flair!
In just about 25 minutes, you’ll have an easy ground beef and broccoli stir fry that looks as fantastic as it tastes. Enjoy!
Variations on Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Looking to customize your easy ground beef and broccoli stir fry? Here are some fun variations that can elevate your weeknight meal!
Add Your Favorite Veggies
Feel free to throw in other vegetables you love! Snap peas, bell peppers, or carrots can add vibrant color and sweetness. Simply sauté them along with the broccoli for a well-rounded dish. For some extra crunch, consider adding water chestnuts too!
Make It Spicy with Extra Chili Flakes
If you enjoy a bit of heat, amp up the spice level by adding extra chili flakes. You can start small and adjust according to your taste. For a deeper flavor, try incorporating some Szechuan sauce or fresh jalapeños along with the beef. This way, you’ll impress your friends and family with an unbeatable flavor profile!
Explore more creatively with stir-fries by adding interesting sauces or different proteins, and you’ll never get bored!
Cooking tips and notes for Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Tricks for perfecting the sauce
To give your easy ground beef and broccoli stir fry that extra punch, balance the flavors in your sauce. Start by whisking together low sodium soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, minced garlic, and ginger paste. For added depth, you can add a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of sesame oil – these ingredients brighten up the dish beautifully. Don’t forget to mix the cornstarch with cold water for thickening; this will create a luscious coating for your beef and broccoli, making every bite irresistible!
Keep it healthy with lean beef options
Using lean grass-fed ground beef not only makes your stir fry healthier but also enhances flavor. Aim for an 80/20 blend or consider 90/10 for bites that are lower in calories and saturated fats. You can even swap in turkey or chicken if you want a lighter protein option. Pair your meat choice with plenty of vegetables, such as broccoli and onions, to keep your meal nutritious without sacrificing taste. For additional tips on healthy eating, check out the American Heart Association for guidance!
Serving suggestions for Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Pairing with different types of rice
When it comes to serving your easy ground beef and broccoli stir fry, rice is a classic choice. While plain white rice is great, consider switching it up! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and a touch of health benefits, while jasmine or basmati rice can elevate your dish with their fragrant aroma. For a vibrant twist, try serving over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Serving it over noodles for a twist
Why not take your easy ground beef and broccoli stir fry in a new direction by serving it over noodles? For a delightful twist, use udon or soba noodles, providing chewiness that complements the tender broccoli and savory beef. If you're feeling inspired, try rice noodles for a gluten-free alternative! Toss everything together for a quick, delicious meal that’s sure to impress.
Consider experimenting with different sauces or add-ins based on your personal taste preferences—after all, cooking is all about creativity!
Time Breakdown for Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Planning a delicious easy ground beef and broccoli stir fry for dinner? Here's a quick breakdown of the time you'll need to whip up this family-friendly meal.
Preparation Time
In just 10 minutes, you can gather your ingredients, chop the broccoli, slice the onions, and mince the garlic and ginger. Having everything prepped in advance makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!
Cooking Time
The cooking itself takes about 15 minutes. In this time, you’ll sauté the veggies and brown the ground beef before mixing everything in a savory sauce that brings it all together beautifully.
Total Time
From start to finish, you're looking at a total of around 25 minutes. This means you can enjoy a hearty, homemade dinner even on the busiest weeknights!
This quick time frame is perfect for those of us juggling work, social life, and maybe a series binge-watch or two. If you’re looking for more quick meal ideas, check out this resource for inspiration!
Nutritional Facts for Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Calories per serving
This easy ground beef and broccoli stir fry offers approximately 400 calories per serving, making it a hearty yet balanced meal option. This is particularly great for those busy weeknights when you're looking for something satisfying without overloading on calories.
Protein content
Packed with protein, each serving contains about 28 grams, thanks to the grass-fed ground beef. Protein is essential for muscle repair and overall health, making this dish a fantastic choice for active individuals seeking to fuel their bodies efficiently.
Sodium levels
To keep your meal on the healthier side, this recipe uses low sodium beef broth and soy sauce, totaling around 600 mg of sodium per serving. This makes it a better option compared to many takeout alternatives while still delivering that rich flavor. If you want to reduce sodium further, consider additional fresh herbs and spices for seasoning.
For more tips on healthy eating, check out the American Heart Association for insights on sodium intake and overall nutrition.
Feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary needs and preferences while enjoying this tasty dish!
FAQs about Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients, like chopping the broccoli and slicing the onion, a day in advance. Just store them in airtight containers in the fridge. However, for the best flavor and texture, cook the stir fry right before you serve.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers of your easy ground beef and broccoli stir fry in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for 4-5 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Can I use different proteins in this stir fry?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile. If you prefer chicken or turkey, just swap out the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey. You can also experiment with tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to suit the protein you choose!
For more tips on meal prepping and storage, check out this helpful guide on food safety.
Conclusion on Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Ready to whip up this easy ground beef and broccoli stir fry? It's an incredibly satisfying dish that can elevate your weeknight dinners. Not only is it quick to prepare, but the delightful combination of flavors is sure to please everyone at your table. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!
Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Equipment
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup yellow or white onion, sliced about ½ onion
Proteins
- 1 lb 80/20 Grass Fed Ground Beef 100% Grass Fed
Pantry
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil vegetable, peanut, or similar
- 1.5 cups low sodium beef broth
- ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoon brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced about 1 tbsp
- 2 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoon cold water
- toasted sesame seeds for garnish
- cooked white rice
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the white rice according to package instructions or personal preference.
- Trim the broccoli florets from the main stalk, aiming for similar sized pieces. Slice the onion and mince the garlic and ginger if not using prepared options.
- Stir all sauce ingredients together in a measuring cup (beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes). Whisk until combined. Stir the cornstarch into the cold water to form a slurry and set aside.
- Once ready to cook, heat a large skillet over high heat. Add the cooking oil. Add the broccoli and onions and sauté, stirring frequently, until the broccoli is tender-crisp and the onions are browned, about 4-5 minutes. Transfer into a prep bowl and set aside.
- In the same pan, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until no pink remains, about 4-5 minutes. Option to drain the ground beef before adding the prepared sauce ingredients and stir to deglaze the bottom of the skillet. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce is thickened to a gravy consistency.
- Fold in the broccoli and onions, stirring until all ingredients are coated in the sauce. Serve over white rice and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and additional red pepper flakes, if desired.
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