Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli

Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli is a delightful dish that blends savory flavors with nutritious ingredients. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious and satisfying dinner. With its quick cooking time and minimal cleanup, this one-pan meal will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful: The combination of teriyaki sauce and fresh ginger creates a robust flavor profile that delights the palate.
• Versatile: Perfectly pairs with rice or cauliflower rice, allowing for a low-carb option.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from ground beef and vitamins from broccoli, this dish supports a balanced diet.
• Easy Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your preparation and ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A sturdy skillet allows for even cooking of ingredients while providing enough space to sauté everything together.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining sauces before adding them to the skillet, ensuring all flavors are well-blended.
• Spatula: A versatile tool for stirring, flipping, and serving your delicious teriyaki ground beef and broccoli.

Ingredients

To make Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli, you will need the following ingredients:

Vegetables

• 12 oz Broccoli Florets

Protein

• 1 pound Ground Beef

Sauces & Seasonings

• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil, divided
• 1 piece Ginger, minced (optional)
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced (optional)
• 1 cup Teriyaki Sauce
• 1/4 cup (60g) Light Mayo
• 1 1/2 Tablespoon (23g) Sriracha or Chili Garlic Sauce
• 1 Tablespoon (21g) Honey
• 1 Tablespoon (15g) Rice Vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder

To Serve

• Rice or Cauliflower Rice
• Toasted Sesame Seeds
• Scallions, thinly sliced

How to Make Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Mix the sauce ingredients together in a bowl and set aside. This will help infuse flavor into the beef as it cooks.

Step 2: Sauté the Broccoli

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
* Add the broccoli florets.
* Leave untouched for 2-3 minutes until slightly charred on one side.
* Flip the broccoli and cook for another 2-3 minutes until tender.
* Transfer to a bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

In the same skillet:
* Heat an additional 1/2 tablespoon of oil.
* Add the ground beef, browning one side before breaking apart to fully cook it.

Step 4: Add Aromatics

Once the beef is fully cooked:
* Create a center well in the meat mixture.
* Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil along with minced ginger and garlic.
* Cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant before mixing everything together.

Step 5: Combine with Sauce

Add the teriyaki sauce to the skillet:
* Stir everything together thoroughly.
* Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and sticks to the beef.

Step 6: Finish with Broccoli

Return the sautéed broccoli back into the skillet:
* Turn off the heat.
* Stir everything together gently.

Step 7: Serve

Serve over rice or cauliflower rice. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions if desired. Enjoy your flavorful Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli!

How to Serve Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli

Serving Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli is as easy as it is delicious. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings, allowing for a custom dining experience that suits everyone’s tastes.

With Rice

• White Rice: The classic choice, fluffy white rice absorbs the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
• Cauliflower Rice: Low-carb option perfect for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake.

Topped with Yum Yum Sauce

• Drizzle Yum Yum Sauce: This creamy sauce adds a delightful tanginess that complements the savory flavors of the beef and broccoli.

Garnished with Fresh Ingredients

• Toasted Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle these on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Scallions: Thinly sliced for a fresh, oniony bite that brightens up the dish.

As Part of a Meal Prep

• Meal Prep Containers: Divide portions into containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner throughout the week.

How to Perfect Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli

Perfecting your Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli takes just a few simple tips. With these suggestions, you can elevate your dish to restaurant-quality.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and garlic enhance the overall flavor significantly compared to frozen or dried alternatives.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Aim for tender-crisp broccoli to maintain its vibrant color and nutritional value.
• Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to tweak the sweetness or spiciness of your teriyaki sauce according to your personal taste preferences.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes can help flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli

Pairing side dishes with Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A mix of colorful veggies stir-fried in soy sauce complements your main dish beautifully.
2. Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods provide protein and make for a healthy snack alongside your meal.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumber, vinegar, and sesame oil balances out the richness of the beef.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds umami flavor while being light enough not to overshadow your main dish.
5. Asian Slaw: Crunchy cabbage slaw dressed in a sesame vinaigrette gives an extra crunch and freshness.
6. Quinoa Salad: Lightly seasoned quinoa salad brings additional protein and fiber; it’s also gluten-free!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the ground beef properly can result in a bland flavor. Make sure to let it brown before breaking it apart for optimal taste.
• Overcooking the Broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy. Sauté it just until slightly charred for the best texture and flavor.
• Neglecting the Sauce Balance: Using too much or too little teriyaki sauce can throw off the dish’s flavor. Stick to the recommended amounts for a well-balanced taste.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold beef or broccoli directly to the pan can decrease cooking efficiency. Allow your ingredients to come to room temperature before cooking.
• Not Tasting Before Serving: Failing to taste your dish before serving can lead to missed seasoning adjustments. Always sample and adjust flavors as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli:

Can I use another type of meat?

Yes! You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or lamb depending on your preference.

How do I make Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce available at most grocery stores.

What can I serve with Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli?

This dish pairs well with rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa for a wholesome meal option.

Can I customize vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute with other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli is a deliciously savory dish that combines tender beef with vibrant broccoli in a rich sauce. It’s versatile enough for weeknight meals or meal prep. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste buds!