If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors yet comes together in a snap, this Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe is exactly what you need. The rich, savory beef mingles beautifully with vibrant, tender broccoli, all coated in a sweet-savory sauce with hints of ginger, garlic, and a subtle kick from gochujang. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that feels special but is surprisingly simple to whip up. Once you try it, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites for busy evenings or anytime you want something comforting and packed with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward, vibrant ingredients is the first step to making an unforgettable Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe. Each element adds its own magic — from the rich texture of ground beef to the crisp freshness of broccoli, and the sauce ingredients that bring it all to life with perfect balance.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Opt for 80/20 for the best flavor and juiciness as it cooks down.
- Sesame oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a deep, nutty aroma and richness that’s classic in Korean cooking.
- Small onion, diced: Provides sweetness and a bit of crunch once softened.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Delivers a punch of savory aroma, essential for depth of flavor.
- Grated ginger (1 tablespoon): Introduces a bright, spicy warmth that balances the rich beef.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/4 cup): The salty backbone of the sauce, perfect for boosting umami.
- Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Brings sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory and spicy notes.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a touch of acidity to brighten the dish.
- Gochujang (1 tablespoon, optional): For a delightful Korean chili paste kick; you can adjust based on your spice preference.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Fresh and crisp, they add color, nutrition, and texture.
- Freshly ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Simple seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
- Sesame seeds (2 teaspoons, optional): Sprinkle on top for a lovely nutty crunch and garnish.
- Green onions, sliced (2, optional): Fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color for finishing touches.
- Cooked rice (for serving, optional): The perfect base 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 sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon as it cooks until it’s beautifully browned and fully cooked, which takes about 6 to 7 minutes. This browning creates the flavorful foundation of the dish, so don’t rush it — those caramelized bits are pure gold.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Next, add diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to your skillet. Stir and cook everything together for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions are soft and everything smells utterly irresistible. This step builds complexity, layering in fragrant notes that elevate the ground beef beautifully.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and gochujang if you’re using it. Give the mixture a good stir and let it come to a gentle simmer. Allow it to thicken slightly over 2 to 3 minutes — this sticky, rich sauce is what makes the Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe so addictive. The sweet, tangy, and spicy balance is what keeps you coming back for more.
Step 4: Prepare the Broccoli
While your sauce simmers, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they turn bright green and tender-crisp, about 3 to 4 minutes. You can use the stovetop steamer or a quick microwave method with a splash of water — just enough to keep the broccoli fresh and crunchy, adding that gorgeous burst of color and texture.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Now it’s time to add the cooked broccoli back into the skillet with your beef and sauce. Toss everything so the florets are evenly coated, absorbing all those rich, spicy-sweet flavors. Finish it off with a bit of freshly ground black pepper to taste — the slight heat balances the sweetness perfectly and pulls all the elements together.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Spoon the finished Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli over warm cooked rice if you like, making it a hearty meal that satisfies. Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for extra flavor, texture, and that beautiful final touch that makes it feel like a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.
How to Serve Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing with toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions not only adds a delightful crunch and a pop of color but also layers in subtle nutty and fresh onion flavors. These little details make your dish visually appealing and elevate the taste experience, making every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a wholesome meal, but you can also serve it alongside cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. For even more Korean-inspired flavors, consider adding a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables — their tangy brightness cuts through the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this ground beef and broccoli in lettuce cups for a handheld feast that’s fresh and crunchy. Or spoon it over a warm bowl of noodles like soba or rice noodles and top with a fried egg for an indulgent, comforting meal that’s bursting with texture and flavor. The versatility is part of the charm!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day. Just be sure to cool the dish to room temperature before refrigerating to keep everything fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe for up to 2 months. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, and label with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping and quick dinners on busy weeks.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a covered skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or use the microwave with short bursts of time to prevent overcooking. Add a splash of water or soy sauce if the sauce has thickened too much while chilled. This way, every serving tastes just as fresh as the first!
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well in this recipe. Just adjust cooking time accordingly, as leaner meats might dry out faster, so watch carefully to keep them tender and juicy.
Is gochujang necessary for the sauce?
Gochujang is optional but highly recommended if you enjoy a touch of heat and authentic Korean flavor. If you prefer milder tastes, you can omit it or reduce the amount. Alternatively, a small dab of chili paste or sriracha can be a good substitute.
How do I keep broccoli crisp and vibrant?
To maintain that perfect bright green color and slight crunch, steam or blanch the broccoli just until tender-crisp—do not overcook. Immediately shocking it in ice water after cooking (if you have time) helps preserve color and texture if you’re prepping ahead.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap low-sodium soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos, and verify the gochujang you use is gluten-free as well. This way, you keep the flavors authentic without worry.
What’s the best way to serve this for meal prep?
This Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe is perfect for meal prep. Portion it out with cooked rice or noodles into containers, cool completely before sealing, and refrigerate. It reheats easily and maintains its flavors, making weekday lunches or dinners hassle-free and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you make this Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever made weeknight dinners without it. It’s effortless, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying—a real crowd-pleaser that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe brings comfort and excitement to the table every single time. Give it a try, and get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe collection!
Print
Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
This Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe offers a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. Ground beef is cooked with aromatic garlic, ginger, and onions, then simmered in a savory-sweet sauce featuring soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and optional spicy gochujang. Steamed broccoli adds freshness and texture, making this dish a balanced and satisfying meal served over rice.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste, optional for heat)
Vegetables and Garnish
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)
To Serve
- Cooked rice (optional)
Instructions
- Brown 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. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and the mixture becomes fragrant.
- Add and simmer 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 allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Steam 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 little water or steaming on the stovetop.
- Combine broccoli and beef mixture: Add the cooked broccoli to the skillet with the beef sauce. Stir well to coat the broccoli evenly and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve and garnish: Serve the Korean ground beef and broccoli over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
Notes
- You can adjust the heat level by omitting or adding extra gochujang.
- Using 80/20 ground beef adds flavor and some fat for deliciousness, but leaner options may be used for a lighter meal.
- Steaming broccoli preserves its nutrients better than boiling.
- Serve with jasmine or short-grain rice for an authentic Korean meal experience.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
