Ground Beef and Broccoli in 20 Minutes – Easy Dinner Recipe

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Are you tired of the same old dinner rotation? Looking for quick dinner ideas that don’t involve complicated techniques or expensive ingredients? This Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. Combining tender ground beef, crisp-tender broccoli florets, and a glossy, flavorful sauce that rivals your favorite takeout restaurant, this dish delivers maximum flavor in minimal time.

What makes this one of the best easy hamburger meat recipes out there? It takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, uses simple pantry staples, and creates a complete meal when served over rice. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile swap the beef for ground chicken or turkey if you prefer, adjust the spice level to your liking, and even sneak in extra vegetables without anyone complaining.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe

This isn’t just another ground meat recipe for dinner it’s a game-changer for busy families. Here’s why this dish deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation:

• Lightning-fast preparation: With just 20 minutes of active cooking time, this recipe fits perfectly into hectic schedules
• Budget-friendly ingredients: Ground beef is affordable, and the pantry staples for the sauce likely already live in your kitchen
• Restaurant-quality taste: The homemade sauce beats anything from a bottle, with the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami
• Nutritious and balanced: Packed with protein from the beef and fiber from the broccoli, this is one of those healthy dinner recipes that satisfies
• Kid-approved: Even picky eaters tend to love the slightly sweet, savory sauce coating everything
• Meal prep champion: Doubles easily and reheats beautifully for leftovers throughout the week

Essential Equipment You’ll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the tools that make this easy meal with ground beef even easier. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process significantly:

• Large frying pan or wok – A wide cooking surface ensures even browning and prevents overcrowding
• Sharp chef’s knife – Makes quick work of chopping vegetables
• Cutting board – Essential for safe and efficient prep work
• Mixing bowls – Perfect for combining your sauce ingredients
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy matters for that perfect sauce consistency
• Kitchen utensils – A good spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
• Pot for rice – To prepare the perfect bed for your stir-fry

Ingredient Breakdown: What You’ll Need

One of the best things about this ground beef recipe is how accessible the ingredients are. You probably have most of them already!

Main Ingredients

Sauce Ingredients

For Serving

3 cups cooked rice (white, brown, jasmine, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to create this delicious dinner? Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time. Using your quality frying pan and kitchen utensils, you’ll have this on the table in no time.

Step 1: Prepare Your Mise en Place

In a small container with a lid, combine 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water. Shake vigorously until smooth this is your thickening slurry. Set aside in a cool spot. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon honey (you can add more later), minced garlic, ground ginger, and toasted sesame oil. This prep-ahead approach makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Heat your large frying pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of peanut oil. Once shimmering, add the broccoli florets and toss to coat evenly in the oil. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli turns bright green and becomes slightly tender but still has a nice crunch. You want it crisp-tender, not mushy. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

In the same pan (no need to wipe it out those broccoli bits add flavor!), increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Season with salt and white pepper to your preference. Using a sturdy spatula, break up the beef into small crumbles as it cooks. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until the beef is completely browned and the onions are soft and translucent. If there’s excess grease, drain it off before proceeding.

Step 4: Add the Bell Peppers

Toss in the sliced red bell peppers and cook for just 1 minute, stirring constantly. You want them to maintain their vibrant color and slight crunch they’ll continue cooking in the sauce.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour your prepared sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it bubble gently for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly. Give your cornstarch slurry another quick shake, then slowly drizzle it into the simmering sauce while stirring constantly. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired thickness it should coat the back of a spoon nicely.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Reduce the heat to low and add your cooked broccoli back to the pan. Gently fold everything together until the broccoli is evenly coated and heated through. Taste and adjust add that extra tablespoon of honey if you prefer it sweeter, or a splash more soy sauce if you want more savory depth.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Ground Beef and Broccoli immediately over hot cooked rice. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of extra sesame oil if desired. This is one of those lazy dinners that looks impressive enough for company but easy enough for a Tuesday night!

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Want to take this easy meal with ground beef from good to outstanding? These expert tips will help you nail it every time:

• Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry: Mixing cornstarch with cold water first prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, glossy sauce
• Pat the broccoli dry: Excess moisture creates steam instead of the slight char you want, so dry those florets thoroughly
• Use the right beef blend: An 80/20 ground beef ratio provides the best flavor without being too greasy
• Cook in batches if needed: If your pan is too crowded, the ingredients will steam rather than brown
• Prep everything before you start: This stir-fry moves quickly, so having all ingredients ready is essential
• Adjust sweetness gradually: Start with less honey and add more at the end you can always add sweetness but can’t take it away
• Save time with pre-cut broccoli: Many stores sell pre-cut broccoli florets that work perfectly for this recipe

Delicious Variations to Try

One of the best things about this ground meat recipe for dinner is its versatility. Here are some creative twists:

Protein Swaps

• Ground chicken or turkey: For a leaner option, swap the beef for ground chicken recipes or turkey just adjust seasoning as poultry is milder
• Ground pork: Adds a slightly sweeter, richer flavor profile
• Plant-based crumbles: Use your favorite meat alternative for a vegetarian version
• Combination: Mix half ground beef with half ground pork for extra depth

Vegetable Additions

• Add snap peas or snow peas for extra crunch
• Include sliced mushrooms for earthiness
• Toss in baby corn for authentic takeout vibes
• Add water chestnuts for textural contrast
• Mix in shredded carrots for color and nutrition

Spice It Up

• Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat
• Include fresh grated ginger instead of ground for more zing
• Drizzle with chili oil before serving
• Stir in a spoonful of sambal oelek

Storing and Reheating

This recipe is a meal prep superstar! Here’s how to handle leftovers:

Refrigeration: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the rice separate if possible for best texture.

Freezing: The beef and broccoli mixture freezes well for up to 3 months. Portion into individual servings for easy grab-and-go lunches. Freeze rice separately.

Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh broccoli provides better texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain it thoroughly first, then reduce the initial cooking time since it’s already partially cooked. Pat it very dry to avoid a watery sauce.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

Tamari works perfectly and is gluten-free. Coconut aminos offer a slightly sweeter, soy-free alternative with less sodium. Liquid aminos are another good option. Use the same measurements.

How do I make this recipe less salty?

Use low-sodium beef broth and low-sodium soy sauce. You can also reduce the soy sauce to 3 tablespoons and add a splash of rice vinegar for tang without extra salt.

Can I prep this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the sauce mixture and cornstarch slurry up to 2 days in advance. Chop vegetables and store them separately. When ready to cook, everything comes together in minutes.

What’s the best rice to serve with this?

Jasmine rice is traditional and aromatic, but white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice work beautifully. Fried rice makes it extra special! Cook your rice in a reliable pot for consistently perfect results.

My sauce turned out too thin. What happened?

Make sure you’re mixing the cornstarch with cold water before adding it hot water makes it clump. Also, let the sauce simmer after adding the slurry to activate the thickening. If it’s still thin, mix another teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water and add gradually.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Just use a very large skillet or wok to accommodate everything, or cook in two batches. The sauce doubles perfectly without any adjustments needed.

Serving Suggestions

While this Ground Beef and Broccoli is a complete meal on its own when served over rice, consider these accompaniments:

• Steamed egg rolls or spring rolls as appetizers
• Asian-style cucumber salad for freshness
• Wonton soup on the side
• Crispy fried rice for extra indulgence
• Fresh lettuce wraps filled with the beef mixture
• Noodles instead of rice for variety

Why This Beats Takeout Every Time

Sure, ordering takeout is convenient, but making this at home offers serious advantages:

• Cost savings: This recipe feeds 4-6 people for a fraction of restaurant prices
• Control ingredients: You know exactly what’s going into your meal no mystery additives or excess sodium
• Freshness guaranteed: Made-to-order means no sitting under heat lamps or traveling in containers
• Customize freely: Adjust spice levels, vegetables, and sweetness to your family’s preferences
• Faster than delivery: By the time you’d get takeout delivered, you could have this on the table
• Healthier option: Restaurant versions often contain excessive oil, sugar, and sodium

The Perfect Weeknight Solution

If you’re constantly searching for quick dinner ideas that actually taste amazing, bookmark this recipe. It’s become one of our most-requested easy hamburger meat recipes for good reason it delivers restaurant-quality flavor without requiring special skills or hard-to-find ingredients. The combination of tender beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and that glossy, addictive sauce makes this a dinner winner every single time.

Whether you’re feeding picky kids, impressing dinner guests, or just treating yourself to something delicious after a long day, this Ground Beef and Broccoli hits the spot. It’s proof that healthy dinner recipes don’t have to be boring or time-consuming. With simple ingredients, straightforward techniques, and about 20 minutes of your time, you can create something truly special.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and reliability. It works on busy Tuesday nights when you’re exhausted and need something fast. It works when you’re meal prepping for the week ahead. It even works when you want to feel like you’ve accomplished something in the kitchen without breaking a sweat. That’s the magic of truly great easy meals with ground beef they’re effortless enough for beginners but delicious enough to satisfy experienced cooks.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Broccoli represents everything we love about dinner ideas with ground beef: quick prep, minimal cleanup, maximum flavor. This isn’t just another recipe to add to your collection it’s a solution to those “what’s for dinner?” moments that plague us all. The next time you’re standing in your kitchen wondering what to make, remember this recipe exists. Your trusty skillet, some basic utensils, and about 20 minutes are all that stand between you and this delicious meal.

Make it tonight, make it tomorrow, make it weekly this recipe earns its place in your regular rotation. And once you’ve mastered the basic version, have fun experimenting with the variations. That’s what makes cooking fun: taking a solid foundation and making it your own.

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Ground Beef and Broccoli in 20 Minutes – Easy Dinner Recipe

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A quick and delicious 20-minute Asian-inspired dinner featuring savory ground beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and bell peppers tossed in a glossy homemade sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights and better than takeout!

• Author: Sara
• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 15
• Total Time: 25
• Yield: 4
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stir-Fry
• Cuisine: Asian-American

Ingredients

1 Tablespoon peanut oil (can substitute vegetable or olive oil)

3 cups broccoli florets, washed and patted dry

1 lb ground beef

1 yellow onion, diced

1 red bell pepper, sliced

Salt and white pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

2 Tablespoons cornstarch

2 tablespoons cold water

1 cup beef broth

1/4 cup soy sauce

3 tablespoons packed brown sugar

1–2 tablespoons honey

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

For Serving:

3 cups cooked rice (any kind)

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Instructions

1. Combine cornstarch and 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.

2. Heat the oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the broccoli and toss to coat. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until slightly softened. Remove and set aside.

3. Season the beef with salt and white pepper if desired. Cook and crumble the ground beef and diced onions over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Drain grease.

4. Add sliced bell peppers and cook for 1 minute.

5. Add sauce mixture and bring to a boil. Let it simmer and 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.

6. Reduce heat to low. Add broccoli back and stir to combine and heat through. Garnish with green onions and serve over rice.

Notes

For perfectly cooked rice, use a 1:2 ratio of rice to water and let it steam covered after cooking.

You can substitute ground chicken, turkey, or pork for the beef.

Adjust the honey amount based on your sweetness preference.

The dish reheats well—store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice.