This Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli dish is a tasty mix of tender beef and crunchy broccoli, all coated in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce. And let’s not forget the creamy Yum Yum sauce that takes it up a notch!
It’s perfect for a quick dinner because it’s simple to whip up in one pan. Plus, I love how the savory flavors make my taste buds dance, and I always want seconds. Who can resist that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I suggest using lean ground beef for less grease. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a plant-based choice, try lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Beef.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the best for texture and color, but you can use frozen if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to adjust cooking time. Cauliflower is also a great alternative if you want a different vegetable.
Teriyaki Sauce: Store-bought teriyaki sauce is easy, but homemade is simple too! Mix soy sauce, honey, and a bit of sesame oil. If you’re avoiding soy, look for coconut aminos or a soy-free teriyaki sauce.
Yum Yum Sauce Ingredients: If you’re avoiding mayo, homemade versions can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. And regular vinegar can replace rice vinegar if you’re in a pinch.
How Do I Cook the Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking the ground beef without it becoming greasy or tough is key. Start by heating the sesame oil in your skillet to the right temperature before adding the beef.
- Break the beef apart as you add it to the skillet, making sure to cook it evenly.
- Stir occasionally, allowing it to brown nicely – this usually takes about 7-10 minutes.
- If there’s excess fat after cooking, drain it off to keep your dish lighter and more flavorful.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Broccoli?
Getting the right texture for broccoli is important. You want it tender yet still bright green. Here’s how:
- Steam broccoli for 4-6 minutes until it’s vibrant but still has a bit of bite.
- If you prefer microwaving, place it in a bowl with a splash of water and cover lightly, cooking for about 3 minutes.
- Don’t overcook it; nobody likes mushy broccoli!
How to Make Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli with Yum Yum Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
For Yum Yum Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend around 25 minutes making this yummy dish—perfect for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Yum Yum Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayo, ketchup, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Set this tasty sauce aside for later!
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger (if you’re using it). Sauté for about 30 seconds until you smell the wonderful aroma! Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break apart the beef as it cooks, stirring occasionally. Cook until the beef is nicely browned, which should take about 7-10 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat in the pan, feel free to drain it off.
3. Add the Sauces:
Now, stir in the teriyaki sauce and soy sauce. Mix it well so all the beef is coated. Let this simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
4. Prepare the Broccoli:
While the beef is simmering, cook your broccoli. You can do this in a pot with a bit of water or in the microwave until it’s tender yet still bright green, which takes about 4-6 minutes. Drain if needed.
5. Assemble Your Dish:
Grab some serving bowls and divide the cooked rice into each one. Top the rice with the teriyaki ground beef and broccoli mixture. The colorful veggies and savory beef will look fantastic!
6. Add the Yum Yum Sauce and Garnishes:
Drizzle the yum yum sauce over the top of the beef and broccoli for an extra burst of flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top to make it look fancy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious teriyaki ground beef and broccoli warm and dig in! Enjoy every bite of this wholesome and flavorful dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may be slightly less, so watch for browning to ensure it’s fully cooked. Adjust the seasoning slightly, as poultry tends to have a milder flavor than beef.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you love a kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the ground beef as it cooks. You could also mix some diced jalapeños into the broccoli during steaming for an extra spicy zing!
Can I Make the Yum Yum Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The yum yum sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may separate slightly during storage.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the beef and broccoli separate from the rice until you’re ready to reheat to maintain the texture. When reheating, warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
