Your favorite weeknight meal just got an unbelievably delicious upgrade! This honey garlic ground beef and broccoli dish is not only quick to prepare but also packs a punch with its sweet and savory flavors. The combination of juicy ground beef and tender broccoli, all coated in a glossy honey garlic sauce, makes this recipe a standout on any dinner table.
Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you sauté the beef, the sauce bubbling away, waiting to envelop the vegetables in its rich, sticky goodness. If you’re looking for a meal that will impress your family without requiring hours of prep and cooking time, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe delivers big on flavor and satisfaction while keeping your cooking simple. Crockpot Mexican Pulled Pork
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful dish: health benefits of broccoli how to choose ground beef
- 1 lb ground beef – choose lean for a healthier option, but don’t go too lean as fat adds flavor
- 2 cups broccoli florets – fresh or frozen, though fresh will give you a better crunch
- 1/4 cup honey – this is the star of the dish for that lovely sweetness
- 1/4 cup soy sauce – adds depth and savory umami
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – fresh garlic adds a punchy flavor
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – to thicken the sauce and give it that glossy finish
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – for cooking the beef
- Optional: sesame seeds and green onions for garnish – these add a nice touch for presentation
Instructions
Let’s walk through the steps to create this honey garlic ground beef and broccoli masterpiece: honey garlic sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat and return the skillet to heat. Add the broccoli florets, stirring them into the beef.
- Pour the honey garlic sauce over the beef and broccoli. Stir to combine, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the broccoli is tender and the sauce has thickened. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water to loosen it up.
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
What else can I add to this honey garlic ground beef?
There are plenty of ways to customize this dish to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:
- Swap the Beef: Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner alternative.
- Add More Vegetables: Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can add color and nutrition.
- Make it Spicy: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Serve Over Rice or Noodles: This dish pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or udon noodles; just increase the sauce ingredients to accommodate.
What can I serve with honey garlic ground beef?
This honey garlic ground beef and broccoli is a complete meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to round it out:
- Steamed Rice: A bed of fluffy white or brown rice helps soak up the delicious sauce.
- Fried Rice: Leftover rice can be quickly transformed into fried rice for an exciting twist.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the beef.
- Spring Rolls: Serve with crispy spring rolls for a delightful side dish.
Tips & Tricks
For the best results, consider these helpful tips: Add More Vegetables
- Brown the Beef Well: Ensure the beef is well browned for maximum flavor. Don’t rush this step.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: You want it tender but still vibrant and slightly crunchy; overcooking will make it mushy.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality honey can make a significant difference in flavor.
- Meal Prep: This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Substitute the soy sauce with gluten-free tamari and ensure your honey is pure.
Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and reheat it on the stove or microwave before serving.
In conclusion, this honey garlic ground beef and broccoli recipe is not only a quick and easy dinner option but also a flavorful one that is sure to please the entire family. With its beautiful balance of sweet and savory, this dish will become a favorite in your household. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try!
Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli
This honey garlic ground beef and broccoli dish is a quick and flavorful meal that combines juicy ground beef and tender broccoli in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. It is a perfect weeknight dinner option that is sure to impress your family.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef
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2 cups broccoli florets
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1/4 cup honey
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1/4 cup soy sauce
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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Optional: sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Directions
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In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
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Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
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Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat and return the skillet to heat. Add the broccoli florets, stirring them into the beef.
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Pour the honey garlic sauce over the beef and broccoli. Stir to combine, ensuring everything is well coated.
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Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the broccoli is tender and the sauce has thickened. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water to loosen it up.
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Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
