If you’re craving a quick, flavorful dinner that brings a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and a bit of heat to your table, this Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe is an absolute gem you will want to keep in your weeknight rotation. Packed with tender beef, fresh broccoli, and a luscious sauce that hits all the right notes, this dish is as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. It delivers a wholesome and comforting meal experience without spending hours in the kitchen, making it an ideal choice for busy days when you want something delicious and nourishing fast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple, vibrant ingredients lays the foundation for this Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe. Each component is thoughtfully selected to build layers of flavor and a delightful texture that keeps you coming back for more.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Opt for 80/20 for balanced flavor and juiciness that caramelizes beautifully.
- Sesame oil (2 tablespoons): This nutty oil adds rich aroma and a silky mouthfeel to the dish.
- Small onion, diced: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth once softened.
- Garlic cloves (2), minced: Infuses the dish with warm pungency and savory notes.
- Grated ginger (1 tablespoon): Adds a fresh, zesty kick that brightens the flavors.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/4 cup): Provides the salty backbone without overpowering the other elements.
- Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Balances savory components with a gentle sweetness and caramels nicely during cooking.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Offers a mild acidity that lifts and sharpens the sauce.
- Gochujang (1 tablespoon, optional): A Korean chili paste that brings smoky heat and depth if you like a bit of spice.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Bright green and crisp-tender, they add freshness and a lovely crunch.
- Freshly ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Finishes the dish with subtle heat and complexity.
- Sesame seeds (2 teaspoons, optional): A toasty garnish that adds visual appeal and a nice crunch.
- Green onions, sliced (2): Their fresh mild onion flavor complements the rich meat perfectly.
- Cooked rice (optional): The perfect canvas to soak up all the delicious sauce.
How to Make Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. This takes about 6 to 7 minutes, and you want it beautifully browned and cooked through. That caramelization adds flavor you won’t believe.
Step 2: Sauté Onion, Garlic, and Ginger
Once the beef is nicely browned, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook everything together for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion turns soft and fragrant. This trio is the aromatic heart of the dish, creating a mouthwatering base.
Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe Step 3: Mix in the Sauce
Now stir in the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the gochujang for a wonderful spicy undertone. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and keep it cooking for 2 to 3 minutes so that the sauce thickens slightly and hugs every bit of beef beautifully.
Step 4: Prepare the Broccoli
While your savory sauce is bubbling away, steam or blanch your broccoli florets until tender but still bright green—about 3 to 4 minutes. This can be done easily by microwaving with a splash of water or steaming on the stovetop. You want that perfect balance of tender and crisp.
Step 5: Combine Broccoli and Beef
Throw the broccoli into the skillet with your meat mixture and stir until every floret is coated in that rich, flavorful sauce. Finish by seasoning with freshly ground black pepper to enhance all the flavors and add just the right touch of spice.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve this irresistible Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. These garnishes not only add crunch and color but deepen the layers of taste in every bite.
How to Serve Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions elevate this dish instantly by adding crunch, aroma, and a pop of vibrant color that makes the meal even more inviting. They also contribute a subtle contrast in texture that keeps each bite exciting.
Side Dishes
If you want to round out your meal, consider serving this Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe alongside steamed jasmine rice or sticky short-grain rice to soak up all the flavorful sauce. A light cucumber salad or quick pickled radishes also provide refreshing contrast and palate cleansing crispness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the beef and broccoli mixture in lettuce cups for a low-carb option that’s super fresh and perfect for casual entertaining. Alternatively, layering it over cooked noodles or even inside warm tortillas can turn this recipe into a crowd-pleasing fusion meal that’s uniquely yours.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of this Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce and keep the beef juicy and tender. Be sure to stir occasionally so it heats evenly.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter substitute and will still taste fantastic with the Korean-inspired sauce. Just watch the cooking time, as these meats cook a bit faster than beef.
Is gochujang essential for this recipe?
Not at all. Gochujang adds a lovely spicy depth, but if you prefer to avoid heat, you can simply omit it. The dish will still be deliciously savory and sweet without it.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to replace regular soy sauce. Double-check that your gochujang is gluten-free as well, or omit it if unsure, and you’ll have a tasty gluten-free meal.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prepare the beef mixture and steam the broccoli ahead of time and then combine just before serving. This saves time on busy days and maintains freshness.
What’s the best way to get tender but crisp broccoli?
Steaming or blanching it for 3 to 4 minutes keeps broccoli tender and vibrant without becoming mushy. Microwaving with a splash of water is a convenient way to achieve this quickly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a dish that comes together quickly, tastes incredible, and feels like a special treat every time. This Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe does exactly that, balancing hearty beef, vibrant greens, and a delectable sauce you’ll crave again and again. Give it a try at your next dinner — I promise it’ll become one of your favorite go-to recipes too!
Print
Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
A quick and flavorful Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe that combines savory, sweet, and spicy flavors in a delicious stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish features tender broccoli florets and ground beef cooked in a tangy soy-based sauce with hints of garlic, ginger, and optional heat from gochujang, served over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Beef and Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste, optional for heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Vegetables and Garnish
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)
Serving
- Cooked rice for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef: Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the pan with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and the mixture becomes fragrant.
- Prepare the sauce: Stir in the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and gochujang if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
- Cook the broccoli: While the sauce simmers, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender, about 3-4 minutes. This can be done by microwaving with a splash of water or steaming on the stovetop.
- Combine broccoli with beef: Add the cooked broccoli to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir well to coat the broccoli evenly with the sauce. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the Korean ground beef and broccoli over cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
Notes
- Gochujang adds heat and depth but can be omitted or reduced for milder flavor.
- For a lower-fat option, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- Steaming broccoli helps retain nutrients and keep it crisp-tender.
- This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine or brown rice for a wholesome meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
