Introduction to Ground Beef and Broccoli
Why Ground Beef and Broccoli? The Ultimate Comfort Meal
If you're seeking a quick, satisfying, and nutritious meal that embodies comfort food at its finest, look no further than ground beef and broccoli. This dish beautifully blends tender, flavorful ground beef with vibrant broccoli, creating a delightful medley that will surely please your taste buds.
The appeal of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, for an extra crunch or something special. According to the USDA, incorporating vegetables into your meals can enhance your overall health by providing essential vitamins and minerals.
The star of the show, ground beef, is a great source of protein, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain muscle mass or simply enjoy a hearty meal. Pair it with rice, and you’ve got a balanced plate that’s perfect for those busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
So, are you ready to whip up this flavorful dish? Let’s dive into the details and explore how to make your very own ground beef and broccoli, a meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Essential ingredients for a delicious meal
When whipping up a savory dish like Ground Beef and Broccoli, having the right ingredients is key to ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need:
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Proteins and Veggies:
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1 pound of ground beef provides the protein base, while 3 cups of broccoli florets not only add nutrition but also vibrant color.
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A diced yellow onion complements the flavor, and the red bell pepper adds a sweet crunch.
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Cooking Essentials:
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Use 1 tablespoon of peanut oil (or any oil you prefer) to sauté your ingredients to perfection.
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Seasonings like salt and white pepper will elevate the dish with subtle enhancements.
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Savory Sauce:
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The sauce is where the magic happens! Combine cornstarch with cold water for thickening, and blend in beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to create a rich, glossy glaze.
These ingredients will transform your weeknight dinner into something truly special. Interested in tweaking the recipe? Discover additional options for veggies and toppings here.
Step-by-step Preparation of Ground Beef and Broccoli
Cooking ground beef and broccoli is an enjoyable experience that results in a comforting and flavorful meal. With a few simple steps, you’ll serve up a dish that's not only delicious but also visually appealing. Let’s explore how to prepare it!
Gather your ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, start by gathering all your ingredients. This preparation step ensures everything is at your fingertips, making your cooking experience seamless and enjoyable. For this recipe, you'll need:
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or substitute vegetable or olive oil)
- 3 cups broccoli florets, washed and patted dry
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- Salt and white pepper to taste
For the sauce, grab:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 cup beef broth
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons honey (start with 1!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Make sure you have everything prepped so you can cook without interruption!
Prepare the sauce
Next, it’s time to whip up the sauce that will be the star of your ground beef and broccoli. In a medium bowl, combine the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, and toasted sesame oil.
Now, mix the cornstarch with the cold water in a covered container. Shake it until blended and set this mixture aside; it will help thicken your sauce later on.
Cook the broccoli to perfection
In a large skillet, heat the peanut oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and toss them to coat in the oil. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are slightly tender but still bright green. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside; you’ll add it back in later.
Brown the ground beef and onions
In the same skillet, season the pound of ground beef with salt and white pepper to taste. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the diced onions. Cook the mixture, breaking the beef apart as it browns for about 7-10 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess grease and add in the sliced red bell pepper. Cook for an additional minute to soften them.
Combine the sauce and beef mixture
Now, it’s time to bring in the sauce! Pour your prepared sauce mixture into the skillet, stirring well to combine. Bring everything to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remember to shake and add the cornstarch mix slowly to incorporate it smoothly. The sauce should begin to thicken nicely.
Add the broccoli back in and mix well
Finally, reduce the heat to low and stir in your perfectly cooked broccoli. Mix everything together until the broccoli is well-coated in the sauce and heated through. This step brings all the elements together, making the dish truly harmonious.
Serve your ground beef and broccoli over a bed of fluffy rice, and enjoy your delightful creation!
Variations on Ground Beef and Broccoli
Swap the ground beef for ground turkey
Looking for a lighter option? Ground turkey can be a fantastic substitute for ground beef in this dish. It boasts fewer calories and fat while still delivering a great taste. Simply brown the turkey in the same way you would the beef, and enjoy a healthier twist on your classic ground beef and broccoli!
Add extra vegetables for a nutrient boost
Enhance the nutritional profile of your ground beef and broccoli by tossing in some colorful vegetables! Consider adding julienned carrots, snap peas, or water chestnuts for crunch and extra vitamins. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also increase fiber content. Your stir-fry will be more satisfying and delicious—who doesn’t love vibrant meals? For more veggie inspiration, check out resources like the CDC.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Key Tips for Maximizing Flavor and Texture
For your ground beef and broccoli dish, start by using quality beef. Grass-fed or freshly ground beef can elevate the flavor. While cooking, consider browning the meat well to develop a rich, savory taste. Don’t skip seasoning! Salt and white pepper can lift the overall flavor profile.
When it comes to broccoli, cook just until tender but still vibrant. A splash of soy sauce or sesame oil added during cooking can deepen the flavor. You can experiment with extra veggies like carrots or bell peppers for more color and nutrition.
Don't hesitate to check out more cooking techniques at Serious Eats to refine your culinary skills!
Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Perfect pairings to elevate your meal
Pairing your ground beef and broccoli dish with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Here are some tasty ideas:
- Rice Varieties: Serve over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice for an aromatic touch. Or try quinoa for a healthier twist!
- Noodles: Opt for egg noodles or rice noodles to add texture and soak up that savory sauce.
- Salad: A light, refreshing side salad with cucumbers and sesame dressing can balance the rich flavors.
- Dipping Sauces: Consider a side of sweet chili sauce for an extra flavor kick or a spicy sriracha mix if you love heat.
Experiment with these suggestions to find your favorite combination!
Time Breakdown for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Preparation time
Getting your ingredients ready doesn't take long at all. You’ll spend about 10 minutes chopping vegetables and mixing the sauce ingredients, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
Cooking time
This delicious dish cooks up quickly! Expect about 15-20 minutes to sauté the beef, veggies, and sauce, resulting in a meal that’s both quick and satisfying.
Total time
In just 25-30 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful ground beef and broccoli dish ready to serve, perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. Who said good meals take forever?
Nutritional Facts for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Calories
In a hearty serving of ground beef and broccoli, you'll find approximately 488 calories. This makes it a balanced choice for a filling meal without overshooting your daily caloric needs.
Protein
One of the standout features of this dish is the protein content. Each serving boasts about 32 grams of protein, making it a great option for muscle repair and growth, particularly after a workout.
Sodium
With around 1138 mg of sodium per serving, it's essential to be mindful of your overall sodium intake throughout the day. Opting for low-sodium soy sauce and beef broth can help manage this number while still delivering flavor. For more nutrition tips, be sure to check reputable sources like the American Heart Association.
FAQs about Ground Beef and Broccoli
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Ground beef and broccoli can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge. Just cook the dish fully, let it cool, and transfer it to an airtight container. This makes it easy to reheat for a quick meal on busy nights—just a few minutes in the microwave or a quick toss in the pan will do.
How do I store leftovers?
After enjoying your delicious ground beef and broccoli, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing the dish. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container, and it’ll be good for up to three months!
What are some good side dishes to serve with this meal?
To complement your ground beef and broccoli, serve it with fragrant rice or quinoa. For an extra veggie boost, a simple side salad or steamed dumplings can also work wonders. You might even enjoy it alongside stir-fried noodles for a delightful twist!
For more tips on serving, you might want to check out this article on side dishes for inspiration.
Conclusion on Ground Beef and Broccoli
Whipping up ground beef and broccoli is not only easy but also a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome meal packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you choose it for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Ready to dig in?
Ground Beef and Broccoli
Equipment
- medium bowl
- covered container
- Dutch Oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon peanut oil can sub vegetable or olive
- 3 cups broccoli florets washed and patted dry
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- Salt/White Pepper to taste
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 Tablespoons cold water
- 1 cup beef broth
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 Tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1-2 Tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
For Serving
- 3 cups cooked rice any kind
Instructions
Prep Work
- Combine cornstarch + 2 Tablespoons water in a covered container and shake to combine. Place in a cool location.
- Combine remaining sauce ingredients in a medium bowl and set aside. Start with 1 tablespoon of honey and add another at the end if desired.
Cook the Broccoli
- Heat the oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli and toss to coat. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until slightly softened. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Beef
- Season the beef with salt/white pepper if desired. Cook and crumble the ground beef and diced onions over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Drain grease. Add sliced bell peppers and cook for 1 minute.
Add the Sauce
- Add sauce mixture and bring to a boil. Let it simmer/reduce for 2-3 minutes. Shake the cornstarch mixture, then slowly stir it into the sauce. Let it continue to bubble gently until desired thickness is obtained.
Add the Broccoli Back
- Reduce heat to low. Add broccoli back and stir to combine and heat through. Garnish with green onions and serve over rice!
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