If you’re craving a dish that brings together bold flavors, vibrant greens, and hearty comfort, then you absolutely have to try this Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe. It’s a delightful fusion of tender ground beef glazed with savory teriyaki sauce, paired perfectly with crisp-tender broccoli. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also packs a punch with the homemade yum yum sauce that adds just the right balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy notes. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or impressing friends at a casual dinner, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe plays an essential role — from the fresh broccoli adding a pop of color and crunch to the aromatic garlic and ginger infusing layers of flavor. Together, these simple components come alive in a way that’s both satisfying and comforting.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: For sautéing the broccoli and ground beef, bringing out their natural flavors and creating those perfect seared edges.
- 12 oz broccoli florets: Fresh and vibrant, the broccoli adds a beautiful green contrast and a slight crunch to the dish.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that’s full of rich, savory goodness and pairs flawlessly with the sweet teriyaki sauce.
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced (optional): This adds a zingy warmth that elevates the whole dish without overpowering it.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional): Garlic brings a lovely aromatic depth and pairs wonderfully with the ginger and beef.
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce (soy-free or regular): The sweet and savory coating that transforms the beef into a glossy, mouthwatering main event.
- 1/4 cup light mayo (for yum yum sauce): The creamy foundation for the yum yum sauce, adding a luscious texture.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for yum yum sauce): A touch of acidity to brighten the yum yum sauce and balance the richness.
- 1 tablespoon honey (for yum yum sauce): For a hint of natural sweetness that complements the teriyaki flavors perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (for yum yum sauce): This gives the yum yum sauce just the right amount of gentle heat to keep things exciting.
- 1 cup cooked rice (or cauliflower rice): The perfect base to soak up all those magnificent flavors while adding a comforting texture.
- Scallions, sesame seeds for garnish: These add freshness and a nutty crunch to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Broccoli to Perfection
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the broccoli florets and let them cook undisturbed for about 2 to 3 minutes to get a lovely char on one side. Stir and continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until the broccoli turns a bright, dark green with a tender-crisp texture. Once done, set the broccoli aside — this simple step builds flavor and texture that truly makes this dish sing.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and add your ground beef. Allow it to sear before breaking it apart, so it gets a nice caramelized crust that locks in flavor. Cook thoroughly until it’s fully browned and deliciously juicy.
Step 3: Infuse with Ginger and Garlic
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the beef and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until you can smell their irresistible aroma filling your kitchen. These optional ingredients layer in a takeout-worthy fragrance and subtle heat that elevate the dish from simple to spectacular.
Step 4: Add the Teriyaki Sauce
Pour in the teriyaki sauce and stir it through the beef mixture, allowing it to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This gives the sauce time to thicken slightly and glaze every morsel of beef, enveloping it in a glossy, flavorful coat.
Step 5: Reintroduce the Broccoli
Return the broccoli to the pan and stir it into the beef and sauce mixture. Let everything heat together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes so all the flavors have a chance to mingle and the broccoli warms back up nicely.
Step 6: Make the Yum Yum Sauce
While the beef and broccoli finish cooking, whisk together the mayo, rice vinegar, honey, and sriracha in a separate bowl. This quick homemade yum yum sauce is the crowning glory, a creamy yet tangy drizzle that brings an addictive twist to the dish.
Step 7: Serve It Up!
Serve the teriyaki beef and broccoli over a bed of fluffy cooked rice or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Top generously with that dreamy yum yum sauce and finish with a scattering of sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds for a burst of freshness and crunch.
How to Serve Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Simple toppings like fresh scallions and toasted sesame seeds are more than just decoration; they add an extra punch of flavor and texture that brightens the dish visually and gustatorily. Feel free to add red pepper flakes or crushed peanuts for an extra layer of heat and crunch.
Side Dishes
This Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe stands strong on its own with rice, but you can complement it with some quick and easy sides like steamed edamame, pickled ginger, or a simple cucumber salad to add even more freshness to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish inside lettuce wraps or as a filling in grain bowls alongside avocado slices and shredded carrots. It’s also fantastic as a filling for Japanese-style rice balls or over a noodle stir-fry. The versatility will make you want to serve it again and again!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover teriyaki ground beef and broccoli stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir and reheat gently to keep the beef tender and the broccoli fresh.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for a longer period, this dish freezes well. Pack cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. If reheating on the stove, add a splash of water or broth to keep everything juicy and prevent the beef from drying out. Top with fresh garnishes after warming.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted if you prefer a leaner protein. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as they may cook a bit faster and can dry out easily, so keep an eye on them.
Is the ginger and garlic necessary?
While optional, ginger and garlic add wonderful aroma and depth of flavor that really bring this Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe to life. If you’re short on time, the dish will still be tasty without them.
Can I make this recipe soy-free?
Definitely! Use a soy-free teriyaki sauce option to keep the recipe gluten-free or soy-free. Also, feel free to substitute tamari or coconut aminos as alternatives to traditional soy sauce-based teriyaki.
What’s the best way to get crispy broccoli in this dish?
Let the broccoli sit undisturbed in the hot skillet long enough to develop a charred, slightly crispy edge before stirring. This caramelization adds amazing flavor and texture contrast against the tender beef.
How spicy is the yum yum sauce?
The yum yum sauce has a gentle kick thanks to the sriracha, but you can adjust the amount to your liking. If you prefer milder flavors, use less sriracha or leave it out entirely!
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to meals. It’s easy, flavorful, and comforting with just the right balance of savory, sweet, and spicy. Perfect for any night of the week, this recipe is a delicious way to bring a little restaurant-quality magic into your kitchen without any fuss. Give it a whirl—you’re going to love every bite!
Print
Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian American
Description
This Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal combining tender ground beef and vibrant broccoli florets coated in a savory teriyaki sauce. Enhanced by a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy yum yum sauce, this dish is served over rice or cauliflower rice for a balanced and satisfying dinner packed with taste and texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 12 oz broccoli florets
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce (soy-free or regular)
- 1 cup cooked rice or cauliflower rice
Yum Yum Sauce
- 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
Garnishes
- Scallions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook the Broccoli: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing one side to char. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the broccoli turns a rich dark green. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add the ground beef. Let it sear undisturbed for a couple of minutes before breaking it apart. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger (if using) to the beef and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring the beef absorbs the flavors.
- Simmer with Teriyaki Sauce: Pour the teriyaki sauce over the beef mixture. Stir well to coat and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and infuse into the beef.
- Combine Broccoli: Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet and stir thoroughly to combine with the beef and teriyaki sauce. Heat for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Prepare Yum Yum Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the light mayo, rice vinegar, honey, and sriracha until smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Spoon the teriyaki beef and broccoli over a bed of cooked rice or cauliflower rice. Drizzle generously with yum yum sauce and garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Adjust sriracha quantity in yum yum sauce to suit your heat preference.
- For a soy-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy-based teriyaki sauce.
- Make extra yum yum sauce to use as a dip or salad dressing.
- Cauliflower rice keeps this dish low-carb and gluten-free.
