Introduction
Welcome to a deliciously simple recipe that’s sure to become a weeknight staple in your home: Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli! This dish brings together the savory richness of ground beef with the vibrant crunch of fresh broccoli, all enveloped in a sweet and sticky honey garlic sauce. It’s the kind of meal that tantalizes your taste buds while being easy enough to whip up after a long day. Serve it over fluffy rice, and you’ve got a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- Cooked rice for serving
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Green onions, chopped for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s beautifully browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the broccoli florets and continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the broccoli to cook until it’s tender yet still crisp.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, cornstarch, and water until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the honey garlic mixture over the beef and broccoli in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything thoroughly.
- Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to a deliciously glossy finish.
- Serve the beef and broccoli mixture over bowls of warm, fluffy rice.
- For an extra touch, garnish your dish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey according to your taste. You can also substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re looking to add even more vegetables, bell peppers or snap peas make excellent additions!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights the technique of sautéing, which helps to seal in flavors while cooking ingredients quickly over relatively high heat. Breaking the beef apart as it browns ensures even cooking, and combining the cornstarch with the liquid creates a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the beef and broccoli.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the beef and broccoli in advance, then reheat on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate! Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a burst of flavor, this dish is both quick to prepare and delightful to eat. With its sweet and savory balance, plus the satisfying crunch of broccoli, it’s sure to please the whole family. Enjoy cooking and savoring this wonderful dish!