Ground Beef And Broccoli just screams weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but your stomach’s howling. Ever stand in your kitchen at 5:19 PM and think, “What can I make that doesn’t taste like cafeteria food and won’t keep me trapped here all night?” Oh, same here. I stumbled on this combo after yet another bland frozen meal (never again). And you know what? Suddenly, dinnertime started feeling easy again. If you like quick recipes that actually fill you up and don’t require ten mystery spices, you’re in the right place. By the way, if you’re on a beef kick lately, check out these beef recipes for even more inspiration. Or, if you’re just obsessed with everything broccoli (are there actual broccoli fan clubs?), this salad would totally change up your side-dish game.
How to Serve
You can really make this ground beef and broccoli feel special just by the way you serve it up. Some nights, I just plop it over a heap of rice and call it a meal, but there are plenty of ways you can jazz it up:
- Spoon it over steamed white or brown rice. Basic, but somehow always a hit
- Tuck it in lettuce wraps for a fresh, hand-held vibe
- Top a pile of cooked noodles (ramen works if you’re feeling nostalgic)
- Go low-carb and serve as is or over cauliflower rice
I’ve even had it for lunch, straight outta the pan. Maybe not classy, but 100% satisfying when you want something hearty that won’t knock you out into a nap afterward.
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli
I’ve made this recipe so many times, I could probably do it with my eyes closed — but please don’t. All you need is ground beef, broccoli, a simple sauce and about 20 real-life minutes. Here’s what that looks like on my average Tuesday night:
Brown your ground beef in a wide skillet. Get it nice and crumbly. I always drain a bit of the fat. Then, toss in chopped broccoli florets, no need to make them pretty. While that’s cooking, whisk up a salty-sweet sauce from soy sauce, garlic, a splash of something like sesame oil, and maybe a dash of honey for just a little magic. Pour the sauce over everything, let it get cozy and bubbly. In six minutes flat: dinner, served.
I swear, even the pickiest eater in my house (my partner… not even my kid) comes back for seconds. It’s that soul-hugging, I’m-totally-a-real-cook meal vibe.
What are the benefits of eating beef and broccoli?
Alright, I’m not a nutritionist but I do know a good meal when I eat one, and this one’s got some serious benefits. Both ground beef and broccoli bring tons to the table. Beef? Packed with protein and iron — keeps you full and powered up, which means less 8 PM snack attacks. Broccoli comes in with fiber, vitamin C, and a whole host of other good-for-you stuff.
Together, they’re like a power couple for your plate. You end up with something better balanced than half the so-called “superfood” meals you see splashed across the internet. One bonus? If you’re ever stuck explaining why you made this for dinner three times a week, you can actually say it’s for their health, not just your taste buds.
“Made this last night in a pinch — my teenagers LOVED it (which honestly feels like a cooking miracle). So fast, easy, and I know they’re getting something nutritious.” – Steph L.
Pro Tips
You can whip this recipe up in nearly any pan, but if you’ve got a big skillet or even a wok, use it. More space gives better browning and crispier edges — trust me, that makes all the difference. Don’t overcook the broccoli; leave it a little green and snappy rather than limp.
I’m all about shortcuts. Buying pre-chopped broccoli? Go for it. Oh, and that sticky soy sauce mix? Make extra and keep it in the fridge. It works wonders on leftover chicken or tossed with noodles, too. If you want to mix it up, swap in a squirt of sriracha for a spicy kick. Never skip tasting the sauce before you pour, though. Nobody likes an over-salty dinner.
Substitutions + Additions
Got picky eaters or just missing something from your fridge? This recipe is super forgiving. Sub ground turkey or chicken if you’re avoiding red meat — it won’t taste as hearty, but it still hits the spot. For the sauce, tamari works instead of soy sauce in case you’re gluten-free. If you love extra crunch, toss in some water chestnuts or bell peppers.
Feel free to go wild with your toppings, too: sesame seeds, chopped green onions, even a squeeze of fresh lime. Sometimes I stir in a handful of leftover rice straight into the skillet. Not fancy, but nobody complains. Honestly, this is the kind of meal that’ll work with whatever odds and ends are hiding in your veggie drawer.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Totally. It reheats like a dream, so leftovers mean tomorrow’s lunch is basically sorted.
What kind of ground beef is best?
I usually go for a leaner option to keep it lighter. Fatty ground beef will taste richer though, so follow your cravings.
Can I freeze ground beef and broccoli?
You bet. Just pop it in a freezer container, thaw, and reheat (though broccoli does lose a bit of crunch, I won’t lie).
Do I need to blanch the broccoli first?
Nope. Toss it right in. It’ll cook just fine in the pan with the beef and sauce.
What’s the best way to serve for picky kids?
Try chopping broccoli smaller and serving over noodles or rice. Somehow that makes veggies less scary (kid logic, right?).
Give This Comfort Classic a Whirl Tonight
So, we’ve talked it all out: fast, filling, and everybody ends up happy when ground beef and broccoli’s on the menu. This is one of those rare dinners that actually does taste like it came from a five-star restaurant, but you didn’t have to tip anyone. Next time you need a dinner win, remember this little recipe. And if you want more ideas, take a peek at what Skinnytaste does with a Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry or see another spin from The Cozy Cook’s ground beef and broccoli. Trust me, bookmark this page — you’ll want it again.
Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients
Method
- Brown the ground beef in a wide skillet until crumbly; drain excess fat.
- Add chopped broccoli to the skillet and toss together.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and honey.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli; cook until bubbly and heated through, about 6 minutes.
Notes
Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients
Method
- In a wide skillet, brown the ground beef until it's crumbly; drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender.
- While the beef and broccoli are cooking, whisk together soy sauce, minced garlic, sesame oil, and honey in a bowl.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli; let it simmer for 6 minutes.
