Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe
A Quick, Healthy, and Delicious Meal
It was a busy Tuesday evening. The kind where you stare at your fridge, hoping a meal will magically appear. Takeout? Too expensive. Leftovers? Not a chance. And then, there it was—a lonely pack of ground beef and a half-used bag of broccoli. That’s when I remembered my grandma’s simple, hearty stir-fry recipe. In less than 30 minutes, I had a dish so good, it tasted like comfort in a bowl.
That’s the magic of Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe—simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a meal ready in no time. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a family, or just craving something delicious, this dish will never let you down.
Let’s dive into why you’ll love it and how to make the perfect version at home!
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Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe is a quick, flavorful, and protein-packed meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with tender ground beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory soy-based sauce, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes. Serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it as a low-carb meal with cauliflower rice.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef (80/20 blend) | 1 pound |
| Broccoli florets | 3 cups |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Soy sauce (low sodium) | ¼ cup |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 teaspoon |
| Brown sugar (or honey) | 1 tablespoon |
| Cornstarch | 1 teaspoon |
| Water | ¼ cup |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | ½ teaspoon |
| Green onions (chopped) | 2 stalks |
| Sesame seeds (for garnish) | 1 teaspoon |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, cornstarch, and water to make the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
- Push the beef to one side of the pan.
- Add a little oil, then toss in the broccoli and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is slightly tender.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
- Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over the beef and broccoli.
- Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice.
Notes
💡 Want a keto-friendly version? Swap brown sugar for monk fruit sweetener and use xanthan gum instead of cornstarch.
🔥 Spice it up! Add Sriracha or chili garlic sauce for extra heat.
🕒 Make it faster: Use pre-cut broccoli and pre-minced garlic to save time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (¼ of the total recipe)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Ground beef and broccoli, quick stir-fry, easy beef recipe, healthy dinner, 30-minute meal, low-carb beef stir-fry
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef (80/20 blend) | 1 pound |
| Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen) | 3 cups |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Soy sauce (low sodium) | ¼ cup |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 teaspoon |
| Brown sugar (or honey) | 1 tablespoon |
| Cornstarch | 1 teaspoon |
| Water | ¼ cup |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | ½ teaspoon |
| Green onions (for garnish) | 2 stalks, chopped |
Optional Add-Ons for Extra Flavor
- Mushrooms: Add for an umami boost.
- Carrots: Slice thin for a sweet crunch.
- Cashews or Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle for texture.
- Chili Sauce: Turn up the heat!
Now that we have the ingredients, let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
1. Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, get everything prepped and ready:
- Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
- Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, cornstarch, and water. This will be your flavorful stir-fry sauce.
2. Cooking the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy dish.
Pro Tip: Want extra flavor? Add a splash of soy sauce while cooking the beef!
3. Adding and Cooking the Broccoli
- Push the beef to one side of the pan.
- Add a little oil, then toss in the broccoli and minced garlic.
- Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is slightly tender but still crisp.
4. Mixing Everything Together
- Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over the beef and broccoli.
- Stir everything together, making sure the sauce coats each piece.
- Let it cook for another 3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. Final Touches and Serving Suggestions
- Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot over rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Variations of Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Keto and Low-Carb Version
Skip the brown sugar and cornstarch—use monk fruit sweetener and xanthan gum instead. Serve over cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly twist!
Spicy Asian-Style Stir Fry
Love spice? Add Sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the stir-fry sauce for a fiery kick.
Cheesy Beef and Broccoli Casserole
Mix in shredded cheddar cheese and bake for 15 minutes at 375°F for a creamy, cheesy twist.
Adding Rice or Noodles for a Hearty Meal
- White Rice: Classic choice, soaks up all the sauce.
- Brown Rice: A healthier, fiber-rich alternative.
- Lo Mein Noodles: For a true Asian-inspired meal.
“The best thing about this recipe? You can customize it to your taste. Make it spicy, cheesy, or keto—whatever suits your cravings!”
Want More Delicious Recipes?
Check out these other easy dessert recipes:
➡️Beef Heart Recipe
➡️Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
➡️Mexican Ground Beef Tacos
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Quick and Easy to Make
No one wants to spend hours in the kitchen after a long day. This Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish. You won’t need fancy equipment or chef-level skills—just a pan, a few ingredients, and an appetite.
Budget-Friendly and Nutritious
Eating well shouldn’t cost a fortune. Ground beef is one of the most affordable protein sources, and broccoli? Super cheap and packed with vitamins. Together, they create a protein-rich, fiber-filled meal that’s good for your body and your wallet.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Make a big batch, store it in airtight containers, and you’ve got ready-to-go lunches or dinners for the week. It reheats beautifully and tastes just as amazing the next day.
“This dish proves that eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring or expensive. Simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a meal you’ll want to make again and again!”
Ground Beef and Broccoli: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Overcooking the Broccoli
Soggy broccoli? No thanks. Keep it bright green and crisp by cooking it just long enough to be tender.
2. Using the Wrong Type of Ground Beef
Too much fat = greasy stir fry. Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor without excess oil.
3. Not Seasoning Properly
Soy sauce alone isn’t enough—garlic, ginger, and sesame oil add depth and richness.
4. Making the Dish Too Watery
Want a thick, glossy sauce? Use cornstarch or let the sauce simmer until it reduces.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Ground Beef and Broccoli
A great dish becomes even better with the right side pairings. Here are some of the best options to complement this ground beef and broccoli recipe:
Rice and Noodle Pairings
- Steamed White Rice: The classic base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- Brown Rice: A healthier alternative, packed with fiber and a slightly nutty taste.
- Fried Rice: Toss some eggs, garlic, and soy sauce into leftover rice for an elevated meal.
- Lo Mein or Ramen Noodles: Want a restaurant-style twist? Serve this stir-fry over Asian-style noodles.
Low-Carb Side Options
- Cauliflower Rice: A perfect substitute for those cutting carbs.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light, fresh, and a great alternative to pasta.
- Cabbage Stir-Fry: Sauté shredded cabbage with a splash of soy sauce and garlic for a crunchy, low-carb side.
Soup and Salad Pairings
- Egg Drop Soup: A simple, comforting side that pairs well with the rich beef and broccoli.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: Crisp, refreshing, and slightly tangy—balances out the savory flavors.
- Miso Soup: A warm, umami-packed option that adds depth to your meal.
“Choosing the right side dish makes this meal feel like a complete restaurant-quality experience right at home!”
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers: Keep Your Ground Beef and Broccoli Fresh
So, you made a big batch of this ground beef and broccoli recipe, and now you’ve got leftovers—great choice! This dish stores well and reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. But if you want to enjoy it just as fresh as when you first made it, proper storage and reheating methods are key.
Best Storage Practices: Keep It Fresh for Days
To maintain the best texture and flavor, follow these simple storage steps:
✅ Let the dish cool completely before storing. Storing hot food can create excess moisture inside the container, leading to soggy broccoli and a mushy texture.
✅ Use an airtight container. This prevents the dish from absorbing fridge odors and keeps it from drying out.
✅ Refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually develop more over time, making leftovers taste even better!
✅ Freeze for up to 3 months. If you plan to freeze, divide the dish into individual portions for easy reheating.
Pro Tip: If freezing, store the broccoli and beef separately to prevent the broccoli from getting overly soft when reheated.
How to Properly Reheat for the Best Taste
Reheating incorrectly can ruin a good dish. Avoid dry, rubbery beef and soggy broccoli by using the right reheating method!
1. Stovetop (Best Method for Fresh Taste)
🔥 Why? Keeps the texture closest to freshly cooked.
- Heat a pan over medium heat.
- Add a splash of water, soy sauce, or sesame oil to bring back moisture.
- Stir occasionally until heated through (about 4-5 minutes).
Best for: When you want the dish to taste as close to fresh as possible.
2. Microwave (Quick & Convenient Option)
⚡ Why? Super fast, but can dry out the dish if not done properly.
- Place leftovers in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
- Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
Best for: Quick lunches when you’re in a hurry.
3. Oven (For Large Batches)
🔥 Why? Best for even heating when reheating multiple servings.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the dish in an oven-safe container and cover with foil.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring once in between.
Best for: Reheating family-sized portions without drying them out.
Avoid These Common Reheating Mistakes
❌ Overcooking the broccoli: It becomes mushy and loses its bright green color. Always heat just until warm.
❌ Microwaving uncovered: Leads to dry beef. Use a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
❌ Skipping the liquid: A splash of water, broth, or soy sauce helps bring back freshness.
“Avoid overcooking when reheating—just heat until warm to keep the beef tender and the broccoli fresh!”
Health Benefits of Ground Beef and Broccoli
This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutritional benefits that make it a healthy choice.
Protein-Packed and Nutrient-Rich
- Ground beef is loaded with high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Broccoli is a superfood, rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins like C and K.
Great for Muscle Building and Weight Loss
- Protein + fiber = feeling full for longer, reducing unnecessary snacking.
- Low in carbs (if served without rice), making it a great keto-friendly meal.
Broccoli’s Immune-Boosting Properties
- Contains vitamin C, which supports immune function.
- Rich in antioxidants, helping to fight inflammation and protect against disease.
“Eating well doesn’t mean sacrificing taste—this dish is proof that healthy food can be absolutely delicious!”
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef and Broccoli
1. Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just thaw it first and pat it dry to remove excess water. Frozen broccoli may be a little softer but still works great.
2. What’s the Best Type of Ground Beef to Use?
80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) gives the best balance of flavor and texture. If you prefer leaner meat, go for 90/10 but add a little extra oil for moisture.
3. How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Swap the ground beef for tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms. Use the same sauce, and it’ll still be packed with flavor.
4. Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then throw everything into the slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. What’s the Best Sauce to Use for Extra Flavor?
If you want to switch things up, try:
- Hoisin Sauce: Adds a slightly sweet, barbecue-like taste.
- Oyster Sauce: Deepens the umami flavor.
- Teriyaki Sauce: For a sweeter, stickier stir-fry.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe is a life-saver when you need something quick, tasty, and nutritious. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or just craving a comforting meal, this dish never disappoints.
It’s simple, customizable, and packed with flavor—the perfect combination of healthy and hearty. Try it out tonight, and let me know how you like it!