As the aroma of sizzling garlic and ginger fills the kitchen, I can't help but feel a sense of exhilaration—this is the moment when a busy weeknight transforms into something special. My Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is exactly what dreams of a quick and flavorful dinner are made of. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this dish is not only a family favorite but also unbelievably customizable; you can swap in whatever veggies you have on hand! It’s the perfect comfort food that won’t leave you feeling heavy, yet still warms the soul. Ready to delight your taste buds and create a meal that brings joy to the table? Let’s dive into a world of savory goodness together!
Why Is This Teriyaki Ground Beef Dish Special?
Quick and Easy: This recipe shines as a go-to for weeknight meals, coming together in just 30 minutes.
Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of tender ground beef and charred broccoli, all swimming in a rich teriyaki sauce, creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Customization Galore: Feel free to throw in your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level for a dish that matches your family's preferences.
Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and options for gluten-free ingredients, it satisfies cravings without the guilt.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for busy families or casual get-togethers, everyone will love this delicious twist on a takeout classic!
Make-Ahead Magic: Prep ahead of time for an even easier weeknight dinner that doesn't skimp on flavor. Don’t forget to explore our variations for even more inspiration!
Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Ingredients
For the Beef
- Ground Beef – Use 80/20 for juiciness; leaner options can substitute, but may require adjustments in cooking time.
- Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing; substitute with sesame oil for a richer flavor profile.
For the Broccoli
- Broccoli – Adds crunch and vibrant color; fresh florets are best, but feel free to swap with bell peppers or snap peas.
- Minced Ginger – Imparts warmth and depth; fresh ginger offers the best flavor, though powdered can work in a pinch.
- Minced Garlic – Essential for aromatic flavor; fresh is preferable, but garlic powder can replace it sparingly.
For the Sauce and Garnish
- Teriyaki Sauce – The star of this dish; choose store-bought or homemade, and opt for gluten-free varieties like tamari or coconut aminos.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds – A delightful garnish adding a nutty crunch; optional but highly recommended.
- Thinly Sliced Scallions – Provides freshness and mild onion flavor; can be replaced with chives or omitted as desired.
This Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe offers a delectable and customizable dinner option that the whole family will enjoy!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli
Step 1: Sauté the Broccoli
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add broccoli florets in a single layer and cook them without stirring for about 2-3 minutes until they develop a lovely char. After that, flip the florets and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium-high. Once hot, add the ground beef, allowing it to sear on one side without stirring for enhanced flavor and browning. After about 6-8 minutes, break it apart with a spatula and cook until no pink remains, ensuring even browning. Drain any excess fat if desired, but keep some for flavor.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Create a well in the center of the browned ground beef and add the minced ginger and garlic. Cook for 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant and slightly golden. This step brings out the spices’ aromatic qualities that will beautifully enhance your Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli dish.
Step 4: Incorporate the Teriyaki Sauce
Pour in the teriyaki sauce, stirring the mixture well to combine. Allow the sauce to cook and thicken for 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors develop and coat the beef evenly. Make sure to keep the heat at medium-high during this step for the best results, creating a deliciously sticky and flavorful coating.
Step 5: Combine the Broccoli
Gently fold the charred broccoli back into the skillet with the ground beef and teriyaki sauce, ensuring the broccoli is evenly coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm the broccoli through and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions for an added crunch and pop of color. Enjoy this quick and delicious weeknight dinner!
How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Allow the dish to cool uncovered for 20 minutes before sealing.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Portion it for easy meals later!
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium heat for best results, ensuring the broccoli stays crisp. Adding a splash of water can help revive the sauce's moisture.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can brown the ground beef and chop the broccoli ahead of time. Store separately in the fridge for a quick weeknight dinner when you're ready to combine with sauce!
What to Serve with Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli
There’s nothing quite like the excitement of pairing dishes that dance harmoniously on the palate, creating a delightful dining experience for friends and family.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the teriyaki sauce beautifully, providing a neutral base that balances the dish's bold flavors.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, this rice mimics the texture of traditional rice, adding a light and healthy twist to your meal.
- Sesame Noodles: With their nutty flavor and slight chewiness, sesame noodles create a delightful contrast and complement the savory beef perfectly.
- Quick Pickled Cucumbers: Fresh and crunchy, these bright bites contrast beautifully with the richness of teriyaki sauce, refreshing the palate between bites.
- Sauteed Bok Choy: Its tender leaves and crisp stems add a lovely texture and boost the nutritional value, harmonizing well with the core ingredients.
- Miso Soup: Light and savory, this warming soup rounds out the meal, enhancing the umami experience and comforting on any evening.
- Spicy Edamame: Tossed in sea salt and chili flakes, these little pods are not only fun to eat but also introduce a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
- Mango Salad: A mix of juicy mangoes and crunchy veggies creates a bright and fruity contrast, elevating the meal to a refreshing level.
- Chilled Green Tea: This drink pairs beautifully with the dish, offering a soothing balance to the richness and enhancing your dining experience.
Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Variations
Feel free to explore these creative tweaks that will keep your Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli as exciting as it is delicious!
- Vegetable Swap: Replace broccoli with bell peppers or snap peas for a different crunch. Freshness adds vibrant colors and flavors!
- Spice It Up: Add sriracha or crushed red pepper to the beef for a fiery kick. Perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals!
- Cauliflower Rice: For a lighter option, serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice. This twist keeps the dish satisfying yet guilt-free.
- Protein Options: Try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version without sacrificing flavor. Each brings a unique spin to this classic!
- Noodle Love: Toss in some cooked lo mein or rice noodles for a comforting take on teriyaki. This will transform the dish into a delightful noodle bowl!
- Tropical Flavor: Add pineapple chunks during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory twist. It'll remind you of a sun-soaked island getaway!
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh basil or cilantro at the end for a burst of freshness. The herbs elevate the dish while adding a delightful aroma.
- Nutty Crunch: Drizzle with peanut or almond butter before serving for an added creaminess and depth. This unexpected twist will surely impress family or guests!
Expert Tips for Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli
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Perfectly Charred Broccoli: Let the broccoli sit uncooked in the skillet for a few minutes before stirring to achieve maximum char and flavor.
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Avoid Garlic Burn: Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing; burning it will turn the flavor bitter. Stir frequently to keep it fragrant.
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Storing Leftovers: Allow leftovers to cool uncovered for 20 minutes before sealing in an airtight container to prevent sogginess. They’ll stay fresh for 3-4 days.
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Reheating Tips: To keep the broccoli crisp when reheating, opt for the stovetop instead of a microwave.
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Customize with Ease: Feel free to swap in any vegetables you have on hand for this Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe, making it adaptable for various tastes and preferences.
Make Ahead Options
These Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli ingredients are perfect for busy home cooks looking to prepare meals ahead of time! You can brown the ground beef and chop the broccoli up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the cooked beef and the raw broccoli in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and texture. When you're ready to enjoy your meal, reheat the beef on the stovetop over medium heat, adding the broccoli only for the last 2-3 minutes to prevent it from becoming mushy. Finally, incorporate the teriyaki sauce and finish cooking as directed for a delicious dinner that comes together in no time! This prep-ahead strategy makes weeknight dinners less hectic without sacrificing flavor.
Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the juiciest results, but you can opt for leaner cuts if you prefer. Just keep an eye on your cooking time, as leaner beef may cook more quickly.
How do I store leftovers of Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli?
To keep your leftovers fresh, allow them to cool uncovered for about 20 minutes before transferring them to an airtight container. They should stay good in the fridge for 3-4 days. This way, you'll avoid any sogginess!
Can I freeze Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli?
Very! For freezing, let the dish cool completely before placing it into a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stovetop, stirring in a splash of water if needed to revive the sauce’s moisture.
What vegetables can I substitute in the recipe?
The more the merrier! If you’re out of broccoli, feel free to use bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas—whatever’s in your fridge. Simply cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking, and enjoy experimenting with flavors!
Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Absolutely! You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos in place of regular teriyaki sauce. Just be sure to check the label of any sauces you're using to ensure they fit your dietary needs.
How can I enhance the flavors further?
For an extra flavor kick, try adding sriracha or crushed red pepper to your ground beef while it cooks, or toss in some sliced mushrooms or baby corn for added texture. This dish is all about making it your own!
Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli: Easy Weeknight Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add broccoli florets and cook for about 2-3 minutes without stirring until charred. Flip and cook another 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef and sear on one side for enhanced flavor. Break apart after 6-8 minutes and cook until no pink remains. Drain excess fat if desired.
- Create a well in the center of the beef and add minced ginger and garlic. Cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the teriyaki sauce, stirring to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to thicken and coat the beef evenly.
- Fold the charred broccoli into the beef and teriyaki sauce, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Serve over steamed rice or cauliflower rice, garnished with sesame seeds and scallions.
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