This Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli dish is the perfect blend of flavors, making it a delightful and nutritious meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep option, this one-pan recipe stands out for its simplicity and health benefits. With its gluten-free, soy-free, paleo, and AIP-friendly attributes, it’s suitable for various dietary needs while delivering on taste and ease.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of coconut aminos and spices creates a savory sauce that perfectly complements the beef and broccoli.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and nutrients, this dish is not only delicious but also nourishing.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding other vegetables or changing the protein source.
- One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan, saving you time on dishes.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started with your Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large sauté pan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large sauté pan: This allows you to cook all ingredients together efficiently without overcrowding.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly, ensuring even flavor distribution.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for breaking up ground beef without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
This Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli is a simple and cost-effective one-pan meal. It’s gluten-free, soy-free, paleo, and AIP-friendly.
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup coconut aminos
- 1/3 cup beef broth
- 2 tsp rice vinegar (sub apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tbsp coconut sugar
- 1 tbsp arrowroot starch
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ginger powder
For the Main Dish
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (omit for AIP)
- 1 lb ground beef
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons green onion (chopped)
How to Make Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Whisk together the following ingredients in a bowl until smooth:
1. Coconut sugar
2. Coconut aminos
3. Beef broth
4. Rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
5. Arrowroot starch
6. Garlic powder
7. Ginger powder
Set aside once mixed.
Step 2: Sauté the Broccoli
In a large pan over medium heat:
1. Add avocado oil.
2. Toss in the broccoli florets, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until crisp-tender.
4. Remove broccoli from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
In the same pan:
1. Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper.
2. Use a wooden spoon to crumble the meat as it cooks.
3. Brown until fully cooked, then drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the sautéed broccoli back into the pan:
1. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture.
2. Reduce heat slightly and stir for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens.
3. Toss everything together to ensure beef and broccoli are well-coated in sauce.
Step 5: Serve
Remove from heat:
1. Serve hot, topped with chopped green onions for freshness.
Enjoy your flavorful Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli!
How to Serve Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli
This Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli dish is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your meal experience.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Brown Rice: A hearty option that complements the flavors well.
- Quinoa: A protein-packed grain that adds a nutty flavor.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Butter Lettuce: Use large leaves for a fresh, crunchy wrap.
- Romaine Hearts: Slightly sturdier, perfect for holding all the filling.
With Noodles
- Zucchini Noodles: A healthy, low-carb alternative that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Gluten-Free Rice Noodles: A classic pairing that gives a comforting texture.
As a Meal Prep Option
- Containers: Divide into portions for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
- Freezer-Friendly: Store leftovers in the freezer for a quick meal later.
How to Perfect Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli
To achieve the best results with your Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and spices make a significant difference in flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Cook Meat Thoroughly: Ensure ground beef is cooked well to avoid any raw bits, which enhances safety and flavor.
- Experiment with Veggies: Try adding bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
Best Side Dishes for Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli
Pairing side dishes with your Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Cauliflower Rice: A light and fluffy alternative to traditional rice, perfect for soaking up sauce.
- Steamed Green Beans: Simple yet vibrant, they add a nice crunch and color to your plate.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the savory flavors of the beef and broccoli.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, this classic dish works well alongside your main course.
- Sautéed Spinach: Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, it adds a lovely green touch.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that provides a crisp contrast to the warm dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Overcooking the broccoli: This can lead to mushy vegetables. To avoid this, sauté the broccoli just until it is crisp-tender, usually about 5-6 minutes.
- Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season your ground beef can result in bland meat. Always season the beef while cooking for maximum flavor.
- Skipping the sauce preparation: If you skip whisking together the sauce ingredients beforehand, you may end up with unevenly coated beef and broccoli. Prepare the sauce first to ensure a well-mixed dish.
- Using too high heat: Cooking on high heat can burn the ingredients quickly. Medium heat is best for browning the beef and sautéing the broccoli evenly.
- Ignoring ingredient substitutions: If you’re following a specific diet, like AIP, omitting black pepper is crucial. Be mindful of substitutions based on dietary needs to keep the recipe suitable.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool down before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Make sure to label containers with dates for easy tracking.
Reheating Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place your dish in an oven-safe container, covering it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some variations of Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli?
You can add bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrition. Feel free to swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli ahead of time. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
How do I ensure my Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli has great flavor?
Make sure to season both your beef and vegetables adequately. The sauce adds significant flavor, so don’t skip whisking those ingredients together.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough for various dietary needs. This one-pan meal is budget-friendly and customizable; you can add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings according to taste. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli
Discover the delightful flavors of Gluten Free Ground Beef & Broccoli, a quick and nutritious one-pan meal perfect for any occasion. In just 25 minutes, you can enjoy this savory dish that combines tender ground beef with vibrant broccoli in a rich sauce made from coconut aminos and spices. This recipe caters to various dietary needs—it’s gluten-free, soy-free, paleo, and AIP-friendly—while remaining satisfying and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor. Serve it over rice or quinoa, in lettuce wraps, or alongside your favorite sides for an easy and versatile dining experience.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup coconut aminos
- 1/3 cup beef broth
- 2 tsp rice vinegar (sub apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tbsp coconut sugar
- 1 tbsp arrowroot starch
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ginger powder
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (omit for AIP)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons green onion (chopped)
Instructions
- Whisk together coconut aminos, beef broth, rice vinegar, coconut sugar, arrowroot starch, garlic powder, and ginger powder until smooth.
- Heat avocado oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Sauté broccoli florets for 5-6 minutes until crisp-tender; remove from pan.
- In the same pan, cook ground beef with salt and pepper until browned; drain excess fat if needed.
- Return broccoli to the pan, add the sauce mixture, lower heat slightly, and stir until thickened (about 1-2 minutes).
- Serve hot topped with chopped green onions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Paleo/AIP
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg