Ground Beef and Broccoli Skillet

Ground beef and broccoli skillet is my emergency answer to busy weeknights when dinner needs to come together fast but I still want everyone at the table to be satisfied. Just a single pan and a handful of ingredients bring out big flavor with hardly any fuss. This meal hits the sweet spot of healthy comfort food thanks to the comforting richness of ground beef and the tender bite of broccoli.

This was one of the first dinners I managed to pull together after moving out on my own—now it is a standby for nights when life is chaotic but we all need something hearty and good.

Ingredients

• Ground beef one pound: Choose high quality beef with a good balance of fat for flavor and tenderness I usually go for eighty five percent lean or better
• Broccoli florets two cups: either fresh for best flavor and crunch or frozen if that is what is in your freezer Both work perfectly in this skillet
• Garlic two cloves minced: Freshly chopped garlic gives the dish a much more pronounced flavor than the powdered version
• Soy sauce one tablespoon: Opt for low sodium to keep things balanced and check the label for gluten free if needed
• Oyster sauce one tablespoon optional: Adds depth and a hint of sweetness I love using it if I have it on hand but the recipe is still great without it
• Sesame oil one tablespoon: A dash of this toasted oil gives the skillet its signature nutty aroma Buy a small bottle to keep it fresh
• Ground ginger one half teaspoon: Using ground ginger is quick and easy If you have fresh ginger it is even better just grate it in
• Red pepper flakes one quarter teaspoon optional: Gives a gentle kick Use more or less depending on your heat preference
• Green onions two sliced for garnish: Brings a fresh finishing note and color Always add at the end to keep the bite
• Salt and pepper to taste: A little is all you need to bring the flavors together Taste as you go
• Optional cooked rice for serving: It is not required but makes this skillet meal heartier If you need a carb my family loves it with jasmine rice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Add ground beef to a large skillet set over medium high heat Cook and break up the meat with a spoon until fully browned and no longer pink This sets the foundation flavors Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep things light

Prepare the Broccoli:

While the beef cooks bring water to a boil in a separate pot or use the microwave to steam broccoli florets until just tender about three to four minutes This keeps broccoli vibrant and slightly crisp Set aside so it is ready to toss in

Sauté the Aromatics:

With the browned beef still in the skillet push beef to one side and pour in the sesame oil Add the minced garlic and ground ginger Stir constantly for about one minute until the kitchen smells incredibly fragrant This quick sauté releases all the flavors that flavor the whole dish

Combine and Season:

Add the lightly steamed broccoli into the skillet with the beef Pour in soy sauce oyster sauce if using and red pepper flakes Stir well to coat everything in the rich savory sauce Cook together for two or three minutes letting everything meld

Finish and Serve:

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed Toss in the green onions just before serving They keep their bright color and zippy flavor Serve the skillet meal on its own or spooned over bowls of hot cooked rice

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I love seeing the look on my family’s faces when I sprinkle the green onions over the skillet It is always a signal that dinner is ready and the fresh crunch is my favorite part of each bite

Storage Tips

Leftover ground beef and broccoli skillet keeps well in the fridge for up to three days Store in a tightly sealed container For best texture reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water If you use rice store it separately to keep things from getting soggy This dish does not freeze terribly well since the broccoli may soften too much but it is so fast to make from scratch that we rarely have leftovers anyway

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken without missing out on the core flavors For vegetarians try using crumbled tofu or a plant based ground If oyster sauce is not your thing or you cannot find any add a little extra soy sauce and a sprinkle of brown sugar or maple syrup to mimic its sweetness Swap sesame oil with a mild nut oil or leave it out if you have an allergy

Serving Suggestions

While this skillet meal is hearty as is it truly shines when paired with steamed rice Toss in a handful of snap peas or bell peppers if you want to get a little extra veg on the table Add a drizzle of chili crisp or sriracha for those who like it spicy Sometimes I serve it in lettuce wraps for a lighter twist which are fun for kids

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Cultural and Historical Context

The flavors here are inspired by classic Chinese beef and broccoli stir fry but simplified into a one pan home cook friendly approach With soy and oyster sauces adding that signature umami depth and green onions on top you get a comforting taste of takeout but in a fraction of the time I learned to make this after my first try at a stir fry went sideways I realized dinner could be easy with just a skillet and a few bold ingredients

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute the ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well and lightens the overall dish. Adjust seasoning as needed to suit your preference.

→ Is fresh or frozen broccoli recommended?

Both work great; fresh yields a firmer texture, while frozen offers convenience. Simply steam until just tender before adding.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Always check the labels of any added sauces to ensure gluten-free status.

→ What sides pair well with this meal?

Steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or even noodles complement the skillet nicely, offering a satisfying base for the savory flavors.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

→ Is oyster sauce necessary?

It's optional; oyster sauce deepens the flavor, but you can omit it or use an extra splash of soy sauce instead.