Ground Beef and Broccoli – Easy 30-Minute Dinner with Bold Flavor

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Introduction

This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is a fast, satisfying weeknight dinner packed with flavor and protein. Inspired by classic beef and broccoli stir-fry, this version swaps sliced steak for ground beef, making it quicker, more budget-friendly, and just as delicious.

Juicy ground beef is cooked with tender-crisp broccoli in a savory garlic-ginger sauce that’s sweet, salty, and just the right amount of sticky. Served over rice or noodles, it’s a complete, comforting meal the whole family will love.

Everything comes together in one pan in about 30 minutes, using simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

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Ingredients Overview

Ground Beef
Lean ground beef (85–90% lean) works best for flavor without too much grease. It browns quickly and absorbs the sauce well. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Broccoli
Fresh broccoli florets provide crunch and color. Cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. You can also use frozen—just thaw and pat dry before using.

Garlic & Ginger
Fresh garlic and ginger form the base of the sauce’s bold flavor. Don’t skip them—powdered versions don’t offer the same zing.

Soy Sauce
The salty, umami backbone of the stir-fry sauce. Use low-sodium to control salt levels.

Oyster Sauce (or Hoisin)
Adds depth, sweetness, and gloss to the sauce. Hoisin sauce can be used as a substitute if needed.

Brown Sugar or Honey
A small amount balances the saltiness and rounds out the sauce. Use honey for a natural sweetener.

Cornstarch
Helps thicken the sauce and gives it a nice coating texture. Mix with water to make a quick slurry.

Sesame Oil (optional)
Adds a subtle nutty aroma. Just a drizzle at the end makes the dish pop.

Green Onions or Sesame Seeds (for garnish)
Optional but adds freshness and crunch.

Substitutions

• Use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free
• Add bell peppers or snap peas for more color
• Try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb base

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Sauce
   In a small bowl, whisk together:
   • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
   • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or hoisin)
   • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
   • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
   • ¼ cup water
     Set aside.
2. Cook the Broccoli
   Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3–4 cups broccoli florets and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until bright green and just tender. Transfer to a plate.
3. Brown the Ground Beef
   In the same pan, add 1 pound ground beef. Cook, breaking it up, for 6–7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
4. Add Garlic and Ginger
   Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Return Broccoli and Add Sauce
   Add the broccoli back to the skillet. Pour in the sauce and stir to combine. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
6. Finish and Serve
   Turn off the heat. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon sesame oil if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or a low-carb base.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking broccoli—keep it crisp-tender
• Not thickening the sauce—make sure it simmers for a few minutes
• Skipping the garlic and ginger—these are essential to the flavor profile

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips

• Use pre-chopped broccoli to save time
• Double the sauce if serving with rice so it soaks in
• Stir in chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick

Flavor Variations

• Spicy: Add sriracha, chili flakes, or sambal oelek
• Teriyaki Style: Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy/oyster combo
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, shredded carrots, or bok choy

Substitutions

• Ground turkey or chicken instead of beef
• Coconut aminos for a soy-free version
• Cauliflower instead of broccoli for a twist

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This dish is perfect for:

• Busy weeknight dinners
• Meal prep lunches
• Family-style meals
• Low-carb bowls

Serve With:

• White or brown rice
• Jasmine or basmati rice
• Stir-fried noodles or ramen
• Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
• A side of spring rolls or cucumber salad

Pairs well with green tea, ginger soda, or a light lager.

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Nutritional & Health Notes

Per serving (based on 4 servings with white rice):

• Calories: 450–500
• Protein: 25–30g
• Carbs: 35–40g
• Fat: 20–25g
• Fiber: 3–4g

This meal is:

• High in protein
• Easily made gluten-free
• Customizable for low-carb or paleo diets
• Full of fiber and vitamins from broccoli
• Easy to balance by adjusting meat-to-veggie ratio

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FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but thaw and pat it dry before cooking. It may release more water, so stir-fry a little longer to evaporate the moisture.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Store in the fridge up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Is this freezer-friendly?
Definitely. Freeze the cooked beef and broccoli in meal-size portions. Thaw overnight and reheat in a pan.

How do I make it low-carb?
Serve over cauliflower rice or steamed cabbage. Skip the brown sugar or use a low-carb sweetener.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook the beef and broccoli in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Do I have to use oyster sauce?
No. Hoisin sauce, teriyaki, or even extra soy sauce with a touch of molasses or maple syrup can work.

What protein alternatives can I use?
Ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even crumbled tofu all work well.

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