Ground Beef and Broccoli is a tasty stir-fry that’s quick and easy to make. You’ll love the tender beef paired with the crunchy broccoli in a rich sauce!
This dish is perfect for busy nights when you need dinner fast. I always have these ingredients on hand, so I can whip it up and enjoy a yummy meal in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This ingredient is the star of the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too. For a meatless alternative, try using tofu or tempeh.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add color and crunch. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli is a great substitute. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the stir-fry.
Soy Sauce: This provides savory depth. A low-sodium soy sauce is a good choice if you’re watching your salt intake. You could also use tamari for a gluten-free version.
Oyster Sauce: This gives a rich flavor. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, consider using a mushroom stir-fry sauce for a similar taste.
Jasmine Rice: It’s fragrant and fluffy, perfect for this dish. Brown rice or quinoa could also be used if you prefer a whole grain option.
How Do I Ensure My Broccoli Is Perfectly Cooked?
To keep broccoli bright green and crunchy, it’s important not to overcook it. Start by adding it to the skillet after the beef is browned, so it cooks just enough. Aim for about 3-4 minutes. You want it tender yet firm. Always keep an eye on it to avoid mushiness!
- Use fresh broccoli. Fresh gives better texture.
- Cook on medium-high heat for a quick stir-fry.
- Don’t cover the skillet too long to maintain the nice green color.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious ground beef and broccoli stir-fry takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. So, you can have this meal on the table in about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them together for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. This will give your stir-fry a wonderful flavor!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and no longer pink. Don’t forget to season it with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the taste!
3. Add the Broccoli:
Now, stir in the broccoli florets. Cook them for another 3-4 minutes. You want the broccoli to be tender but still bright green—this keeps it tasty and crunchy!
4. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and water until smooth. This will create a yummy sauce that will coat your stir-fry!
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli mixture in the skillet. Stir well to ensure everything is coated. Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly. It’s starting to smell amazing in here!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, place a generous scoop of cooked jasmine rice on a plate, then spoon the stir-fry mixture over the rice. Add some sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for garnish. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as leaner meats might cook faster.
What Can I Use Instead of Oyster Sauce?
If you need a substitute, hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce with a little brown sugar can work well in a pinch. This will give your stir-fry a sweet flavor similar to what oyster sauce provides.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Stir-Fry?
Yes, feel free to add any veggies you like! Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots make great additions. Just be sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pan along with the broccoli.
