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Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring savory ground beef and vibrant broccoli, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil Helps to sauté the ingredients beautifully.
  • 3-4 cups broccoli florets Adds a crisp texture and refreshing taste.
  • 1 pound lean ground beef Juicy protein serves as the hearty base.
  • 2-3 cloves garlic (minced) Brings an aromatic punch.
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce Adds rich umami depth.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar Balances the savory notes.
  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil Injects nuttiness into the dish.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger Provides a warm spiciness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adds a pleasant kick.
  • 8-10 cranks freshly-ground black pepper Adds a touch of earthiness.
  • sesame seeds (optional garnish) Provides crunch and a finishing touch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and toss frequently for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
  3. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside.
  4. Add the ground beef and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for 5-6 minutes, breaking the meat into small pieces.
  5. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Sauce Preparation
  1. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, and freshly-ground black pepper.
  2. Whisk until smooth.
Cooking
  1. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the browned beef, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  2. Add the cooked broccoli back into the skillet, mixing everything together.
  3. Season with salt to taste and serve immediately over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the beef in the soy sauce and spices for 15-30 minutes before cooking. Add fresh vegetables for more texture or serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for 2 months.