🔥 A Healthy Weeknight Dinner: Beef & Broccoli 🍖🥦✨
1. Introduction
Looking for a quick, healthy, and satisfying dinner idea? This beef and broccoli stir-fry is your perfect solution! Packed with lean beef and vibrant broccoli, this dish combines savory flavors with the convenience of a speedy cooking process. Whether you’re after a dinner that is easy to prepare on a busy weeknight or want to add a nutritious option to your meal repertoire, this quick ground beef recipe will not disappoint. Plus, it’s adaptable and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
2. Ingredients
- 1 lb of ground beef (preferably lean)
- 3 cups of fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1/4 cup water or beef broth
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
For additional helpful kitchen tools, take a look at the Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master to prepare your vegetables efficiently, or explore the CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set for easy cooking.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Beef & Broccoli Stir-fry
Prep the ingredients
Start by mincing the garlic, grating the ginger, and slicing the onion. Prepare the broccoli florets and set aside. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), honey, and water or broth to create your stir-fry sauce.
Cook the ground beef
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Break it apart during cooking so it becomes evenly crumbled.
Sauté the aromatics
Add the sliced onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This will build a strong flavor foundation for your stir-fry.
Cook the broccoli
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir well. Cover and simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until the broccoli becomes tender but still crisp.
Thicken the sauce
If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a little cold water and stir it into the skillet. Cook for an additional minute until the sauce thickens.
Serve
Serve the beef and broccoli stir-fry hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired for extra flavor.
4. Storage Tips for Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or stir-fry again until hot. This dish also freezes well, so you can portion it for quick meals later.
5. Serving Suggestions
This beef and broccoli stir-fry pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For added flavor, consider serving with a side of Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl or a light summer salad with champagne vinaigrette.
Looking for a refreshing beverage? Check out the Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker to prepare cold drinks to complete your meal!
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Beef & Broccoli Stir-fry
Can I substitute the ground beef with chicken or tofu?
Absolutely! For a lighter or vegetarian version, swap out ground beef with diced chicken breast, turkey, or firm tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What is the prep time for this quick beef recipe?
The entire process takes about 20-25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Prepare and store in airtight containers for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for healthy lunches or dinners.
7. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe
Enhance your cooking experience with these essential tools:
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Simplify vegetable chopping and slicing for the perfect stir-fry.
- CAROTE Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures easy cooking and cleanup for your beef stir-fry.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — Keep your beverages cold to complement your healthy meal.
8. Related Recipes to Explore
9. Conclusion
In just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying beef and broccoli stir-fry on a busy weeknight. This versatile quick ground beef recipe is not only nutritious but also easily customizable to suit your taste and dietary needs. Incorporate this dish into your regular meal rotation for a tasty way to fuel your body while keeping meal prep quick and straightforward. Happy cooking!
Print
A Healthy Weeknight Dinner: Beef & Broccoli
Enjoy a nutritious and flavorful beef and broccoli stir-fry that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This quick healthy dinner combines lean ground beef and fresh broccoli in a savory sauce, making it a satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb of ground beef (preferably lean)
- 3 cups of fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1/4 cup water or beef broth
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
- Start by mincing the garlic, grating the ginger, and slicing the onion. Prepare the broccoli florets and set aside. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), honey, and water or broth to create your stir-fry sauce.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Break it apart during cooking so it becomes evenly crumbled.
- Add the sliced onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This will build a strong flavor foundation for your stir-fry.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir well. Cover and simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until the broccoli becomes tender but still crisp.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a little cold water and stir it into the skillet. Cook for an additional minute until the sauce thickens.
- Serve the beef and broccoli stir-fry hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired for extra flavor.
Notes
- Ensure not to overcook the broccoli to keep it crisp and vibrant.
- You can substitute ground beef with diced chicken, turkey, or firm tofu for variation or dietary preferences.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari if making this dish gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Low-fat, High-protein
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
2 thoughts on “A Healthy Weeknight Dinner: Beef & Broccoli”