Ground Beef and Broccoli is a simple, flavorful alternative to classic beef and broccoli made with steak. Using ground beef keeps this recipe affordable, quick, and perfect for busy weeknights. Everything comes together in one skillet with tender vegetables and a rich, savory sauce that coats every bite.
If you’re searching for an easy ground beef dinner, a healthy beef and broccoli recipe, or a fast skillet meal that works for weeknights and leftovers, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s filling, flexible, and made with ingredients you likely already have.
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredient Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Peanut oil | 1 tbsp | Or vegetable/olive oil |
| Broccoli florets | 3 cups | Washed and dried |
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Lean preferred |
| Yellow onion | 1, diced | Flavor base |
| Red bell pepper | 1, sliced | Sweet crunch |
| Salt & white pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
Sauce Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cornstarch | 2 tbsp + 2 tbsp water |
| Beef broth | 1 cup |
| Soy sauce | ¼ cup |
| Brown sugar | 3 tbsp |
| Honey | 1–2 tbsp |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Ground ginger | ½ tsp |
| Toasted sesame oil | 1 tsp |
For Serving
- 3 cups cooked rice
Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Easy ground beef and broccoli skillet dinner with a savory soy garlic sauce.
Ingredients
1 tbsp peanut oil
3 cups broccoli florets
1 lb ground beef
1 yellow onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
Salt and white pepper
2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water
1 cup beef broth
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 tbsp brown sugar
1–2 tbsp honey
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp toasted sesame oil
Instructions
1. Cook broccoli and set aside.
2. Brown beef with onion.
3. Add bell pepper.
4. Add sauce and simmer.
5. Stir in cornstarch slurry.
6. Add broccoli and serve.
Notes
Serve over rice or cauliflower rice.
Adjust sweetness to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Step-by-Step Instructions and Helpful Tips
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
- Whisk cornstarch with cold water and set aside.
- Combine remaining sauce ingredients in a bowl.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add broccoli and cook until slightly tender; remove and set aside.
- Brown ground beef with onion over medium-high heat.
- Drain excess grease.
- Add bell pepper and cook briefly.
- Pour in sauce mixture and bring to a boil.
- Stir in cornstarch slurry and simmer until thickened.
- Add broccoli back and stir to combine.
- Serve hot over rice.
Helpful Tips
- Dry broccoli well to help it sauté instead of steam.
- Start with less honey and adjust sweetness later.
- Stir cornstarch slurry right before adding.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce if preferred.
Why This Beef and Broccoli Recipe Works
This recipe balances savory, sweet, and umami flavors in a quick-cooking sauce that clings to ground beef and vegetables. Using ground beef reduces cooking time and cost while still delivering rich flavor. Broccoli and bell peppers add texture, color, and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ground Beef and Broccoli:
- Over white, brown, or jasmine rice
- With cauliflower rice for low-carb
- As a meal-prep lunch option
- With a side of steamed veggies
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
Ground Beef and Broccoli is an easy, flavorful dinner that proves simple ingredients can still deliver big taste. Quick to make, family-friendly, and perfect for leftovers, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef and Broccoli
Can I make this low-carb?
Yes, serve over cauliflower rice.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, thaw and pat dry first.
Can I substitute ground turkey?
Yes, ground turkey works well.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze cooked portions for up to 2 months.