This tasty dish features tender ground beef and crunchy broccoli, all coated in a flavorful sauce. It’s quick to make, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights!
I love how the beef and broccoli come together in no time at all! Serve it over rice for a complete meal, and trust me, everyone will ask for seconds. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! I stick with lean ground beef to keep it lighter, but ground turkey or chicken work well if you’re looking for a healthier option. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or crumbled tofu as substitutes.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add color and crunch. If you can’t find fresh, frozen broccoli is a convenient alternative and can be just as nutritious. Cauliflower or snap peas can also be great swaps for variety.
Rice: Jasmine rice is my go-to because of its aromatic flavor and fluffy texture. However, brown rice or quinoa can be used for a healthier twist. Just be cautious with the cooking time, as these take longer to cook.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh minced ginger and garlic elevate the dish with their robust flavors. If fresh isn’t available, you can use powdered versions. Keep in mind that fresh will always give a more vibrant taste.
Oyster Sauce: This adds depth, but if you’re avoiding shellfish, try using hoisin sauce or just adding extra soy sauce for flavor. Even a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the umami.
How Do I Perfectly Cook Broccoli for This Dish?
Cooking broccoli just right is essential for this recipe! You want it tender yet still crisp to maintain some bite. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Add broccoli florets after the beef is browned so they keep their color and crunch.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes; you can cover the pan for a minute to steam them slightly.
- Be careful not to overcook! Thinly sliced broccoli works faster, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
By following these tips, your broccoli will be fresh and vibrant, complementing the beef beautifully!
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes chopping and mixing, and then just let everything come together in the pan. A quick and delicious meal awaits!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
2. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 1 minute. Your kitchen should start to smell wonderful!
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula or spoon. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the Broccoli:
Now, add the broccoli florets to the pan. Stir them in and cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly. You want them to be colorful and vibrant!
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the broccoli cooks, grab a small bowl. Whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), cornstarch, and beef broth or water until it’s nice and smooth. This will be the delicious sauce for your dish.
6. Combine Everything:
Pour the sauce mixture into your pan with the beef and broccoli. Stir everything together, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the broccoli is perfectly cooked.
7. Serve It Up:
Your ground beef and broccoli mixture is now ready! Serve it over the warm jasmine rice and garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey may cook slightly faster. Also, consider adding a bit more seasoning since turkey has a milder flavor than beef.
What If I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?
No worries! If you don’t have oyster sauce on hand, you can simply skip it or substitute with a splash of hoisin sauce for a touch of sweetness. Alternatively, soy sauce combined with a bit of sugar can mimic the flavor profile of oyster sauce too!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, heat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to prevent drying out.
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works just fine. Just make sure to thaw it beforehand and drain any excess water to avoid a watery dish. You can quickly thaw frozen broccoli by placing it in the microwave for a few minutes or letting it sit in warm water.
