If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances hearty and fresh, the Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is an absolute winner that never disappoints. It’s a vibrant, savory meal that combines tender, seasoned ground beef with crisp-tender broccoli, all coated in a luscious sauce that’s sweet, tangy, and packed with umami. This dish is a fantastic weeknight go-to that feels special yet comes together quickly with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Plus, the blend of textures and flavors makes every bite a little celebration.

Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its straightforward and essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and that irresistible color contrast on your plate. The quality and balance of these ingredients make Ground Beef and Broccoli truly stand out.

Peanut oil: Perfect for high-heat cooking and adds a subtle nutty flavor; can substitute with vegetable or olive oil if needed.
Broccoli florets: Washed and dried to keep them crisp and vibrant after cooking.
Ground beef: The hearty protein base; opt for 80/20 for a nice balance of flavor and juiciness.
Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
Red bell pepper: Brings a pop of color and a hint of natural sweetness.
Salt and white pepper: To season the beef and veggies perfectly.
Cornstarch: Mixed with cold water to thicken the sauce beautifully without lumps.
Beef broth: Imparts a rich, savory background to the sauce.
Soy sauce: The salty backbone that ties the sauce together.
Brown sugar: Adds warmth and balances the savory notes.
Honey: A touch of natural sweetness that rounds out the sauce perfectly.
Garlic: Minced for aromatic flavor that brightens every bite.
Ground ginger: Adds a subtle spice and zestiness.
Toasted sesame oil: Just a teaspoon unlocks that signature nutty fragrance.
Cooked rice: For serving, making this a satisfying meal.

How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Prep Your Sauce

Begin by mixing the cornstarch with cold water in a covered container and shake it well to combine. This slurry will thicken your sauce later. Next, whisk the remaining sauce ingredients together—beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey (start with one tablespoon and add more if you like it sweeter), garlic, ginger, and toasted sesame oil—and set this aside. Prepping the sauce ahead sets you up for smooth, easy cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Heat your peanut oil over medium heat and toss in the broccoli florets. Cooking them for 4 to 5 minutes until they’re slightly tender yet still crisp keeps that satisfying bite. Then, remove the broccoli to rest aside. This step lets you cook the beef and sauce without overcooking the green goodness.

Step 3: Brown the Beef and Veggies

Add the ground beef to your pan, seasoning lightly with salt and white pepper if desired. Break it up with your spatula and cook over medium-high heat until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Stir in diced onions until they soften, then toss in sliced red bell peppers for just a minute to keep their vibrant crunch.

Step 4: Bring on the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the pan and bring it to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly for 2 to 3 minutes. Then, give your cornstarch slurry a good shake before slowly stirring it in. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens to your liking and beautifully coats the beef and veggies.

Step 5: Combine and Heat Through

Lower the heat, add the broccoli back into the pan, and gently stir so everything is combined and warmed through evenly. This final step completes the harmony between the savory beef and crisp broccoli in that luscious sauce. You’re just moments away from serving up a nourishing plate of Ground Beef and Broccoli.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli

Garnishes

Simple garnishes elevate this dish wonderfully. Try sprinkling finely sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top to add freshness and a touch of crunch. These small details add layers of flavor and visual appeal, making the dish feel thoughtful and inviting.

Side Dishes

Ground Beef and Broccoli pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the delicious sauce, making for a comforting, complete meal. For a lighter side, a crisp cucumber salad or pickled vegetables offer a refreshing contrast and cleanse the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Ground Beef and Broccoli into a dinner party delight by serving it in individual lettuce cups for a fun, handheld option. You can also use it as a tasty filling for warm wraps or pile it over cauliflower rice for a low-carb version that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, simply transfer Ground Beef and Broccoli to an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or busy weeknight dinners.

Freezing

This dish freezes well in portioned containers. Just cool completely before sealing and popping it in the freezer. When stored properly, it maintains its quality for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy the convenience of homemade comfort any time.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up, keeping the texture silky and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this recipe, though the sauce may turn out a bit lighter in flavor. You might want to add a little extra soy sauce or seasoning to boost the savory notes.

How do I keep the broccoli crisp and not mushy?

The key is to cook the broccoli separately for just a few minutes until slightly tender but still bright green, then add it back at the end to warm through. Avoid overcooking during the reheating process by adding broccoli at the very last minute.

Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. All other ingredients in the sauce are naturally gluten-free, making this dish adaptable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

You can prep the sauce and chop the veggies ahead of time, but for best texture, cook the broccoli and combine everything just before serving. This ensures your broccoli stays fresh and your sauce perfectly thick and glossy.

What type of rice pairs best with Ground Beef and Broccoli?

While jasmine and basmati rice are classic choices because of their aromatic qualities and fluffy texture, any rice you enjoy works well. Brown rice adds extra fiber and a nuttier flavor, balancing the richness of the dish.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a comfort food classic that’s easy to make yet feels incredibly satisfying every time you plate it up. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight meal or a casual dinner with friends, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to reach for. So go ahead, give it a try and savor the perfect harmony of flavors and textures that make this dish a standout on any table.