In a world where dinner often means a frenzied trip to the drive-thru, I discovered a hidden gem that brings joy back to the table: Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli. This quick weeknight meal is more than just a way to refuel; it transforms mundane cooking into a gratifying experience in just about 30 minutes. Picture tender ground beef perfectly mingling with vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a glossy teriyaki sauce that you can customize to suit your taste, with a gluten-free option available. It's a true comfort food that not only satisfies your cravings but also elevates your cooking game. Are you ready to swap takeout for a homemade delight that will leave your taste buds dancing? Let's dive into this delicious recipe together!
Why is Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli amazing?
Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit your palate. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or top with toasted sesame seeds for a twist.
Comforting Flavors: The rich teriyaki sauce blends beautifully with tender beef and crisp broccoli, creating a delightful balance.
Gluten-Free Option: Easily adapt this recipe with gluten-free teriyaki sauce, so everyone can enjoy.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this satisfying meal, leaving you with empty plates and happy faces! For more delicious weeknight ideas, try your hand at Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup or Asian Style Ground Beef for variety.
Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Ingredients
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For the Beef and Broccoli
• Ground Beef – Use 80% lean for a juicy finish that complements the sauce perfectly.
• Broccoli – Look for tight, dark green florets for the best texture and flavor. -
For the Sauce and Aromatics
• Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; it enhances flavors and prevents sticking during cooking.
• Minced Ginger – Fresh is best for stronger warmth; it adds a lovely kick to the dish.
• Minced Garlic – Provides a pungent aroma and flavor; be careful not to burn it.
• Teriyaki Sauce – The star of the dish that ties everything together; for gluten-free, choose a suitable brand. -
For Garnishing
• Toasted Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle these on top for a delightful nutty crunch.
• Sliced Scallions – Use these fresh for a bright touch of color and flavor.
Embrace the delightful flavors of this Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli dish and make it your own!
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. Add the broccoli florets and cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes until they develop a slight char. Then stir and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is nearly tender yet still crisp. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In the same skillet, add ½ tablespoon of olive oil, then add the ground beef. Let it brown on one side without stirring for about 3-4 minutes, allowing a rich color to develop. Once browned, break the beef apart with a spatula, cooking everything until fully browned, which should take another 3-4 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary so the dish remains tasty and balanced.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
Create a space in the center of the browned ground beef by pushing it to the sides of the skillet. Add the remaining ½ tablespoon of olive oil, minced ginger, and minced garlic directly into the well. Cook for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant; ensure the garlic does not burn, as this could add bitterness. The aroma will signal that it's time to move to the next step!
Step 4: Combine with Teriyaki Sauce
Pour the teriyaki sauce into the skillet, stirring it gently into the ground beef to ensure everything gets evenly coated. Allow it to cook for 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors infuse. The sauce will thicken slightly and create a luscious coating over the beef, enhancing the classic Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli taste.
Step 5: Fold in the Broccoli
Return the sautéed broccoli to the skillet, gently folding it into the saucy ground beef. Stir everything together for about 1-2 minutes until the broccoli is heated through but maintains its vibrant color and crispness. This final step ensures each bite of the dish is filled with the delightful combination of flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve the Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli over a bed of steamed rice or cauliflower rice. To elevate your dish, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions on top for a flavorful and eye-catching garnish that brightens the meal. Enjoy your homemade delight!
Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful recipe and make it truly yours!
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Chicken or Turkey: Substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option that's equally satisfying.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and crunch. The more, the merrier!
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Homemade Sauce: Whip up your own teriyaki sauce using soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic for a personal touch and flavor control. It’s a fun twist!
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Spicy Kick: Want to heat things up? Add a squeeze of sriracha or sprinkle chili flakes while cooking to add that fiery flavor.
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Cauliflower Rice: Swap out regular rice for cauliflower rice to keep your meal low-carb and still delicious. It pairs great with the teriyaki!
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Pineapple Twist: For a sweet and tangy flavor, toss in some pineapple chunks during the last few minutes of cooking. It’s like a Hawaiian escape on your plate!
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Noodle Addition: Serve this teriyaki mix over cooked noodles for a filling meal that’s a twist on traditional stir-fry. Yummy noodles add a delightful texture!
For even more delightful dinner inspiration, you might enjoy making Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad or the delectable Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bites. Happy cooking!
Expert Tips for Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli
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Right Beef Choice: Use 80% lean ground beef for a juicy finish. Leaner cuts may result in a drier dish.
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Cook Broccoli Perfectly: Sauté until slightly charred for max flavor. Undercooking helps retain its vibrant color and crunch.
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Garlic Timing is Key: Add minced garlic after the ginger to avoid burning. Well-timed garlic gives a delicious aroma without bitterness.
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Sauce Consistency: For a thicker teriyaki sauce, allow it to reduce slightly during cooking. Make sure to stir well to coat evenly!
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Leftover Storage: Cool leftovers completely before sealing in an airtight container. They keep well for 3-4 days in the fridge, perfect for a quick meal!
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Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add extra veggies or swap proteins! Experiment with flavors to make this Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli truly your own.
How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli
Fridge: Cool leftovers completely before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 3-4 days, perfect for easy reheating.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the sauce's consistency. This will ensure your Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli remains delicious!
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving leftovers at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Make Ahead Options
These Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the broccoli and prepare the teriyaki sauce up to 3 days in advance, allowing you to save precious time on busy weeknights. Simply refrigerate the chopped broccoli in an airtight container and store the sauce separately to maintain its vibrant flavor. When you're ready to serve, just brown the ground beef, sauté the broccoli, and fold it all together with the sauce for a quick finish. This way, you get to enjoy a fuss-free, homemade meal that's just as delicious as if you made it from scratch!
What to Serve with Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli?
Picture this vibrant dish gracing your table, but what could enhance this delightful meal even further?
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy, fragrant rice absorbs the savory teriyaki sauce perfectly, making every bite a flavorful delight.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb twist, this veggie alternative provides a light, nutritious base that still delivers an excellent texture.
- Sesame Noodles: Tossed with a light sesame dressing, these noodles add a delightful richness that complements your beef and broccoli beautifully.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting balance with umami flavors that harmonizes well with the teriyaki.
- Pickled Vegetables: Crunchy and tangy, these add a burst of freshness, cutting through the savory richness of the beef and broccoli.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing, these noodles offer a unique twist while soaking up the flavors of the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
- Green Salad: A salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a fresh contrast to the rich dish, keeping the meal balanced.
- Toasted Pineapple Wedges: Grilled or roasted, sweet pineapple gives a delightful tropical twist, perfectly complementing the teriyaki flavors.
- Sake or Sparkling Water: Pairing with a light drink can cleanse the palate and enhance your dining experience, making it truly memorable!
Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe FAQs
What kind of broccoli should I use for Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli?
Look for tight, dark green florets when selecting broccoli. They should be firm and vibrant with no yellowing or dark spots. Fresh broccoli enhances the dish's texture and flavor, making it a more delightful experience.
How long can I store leftovers of Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make the food soggy.
Can I freeze Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth and stir gently over medium heat, allowing it to loosen. For a thinner sauce, continue to cook for a few extra minutes, stirring regularly until you achieve the desired consistency. A well-balanced teriyaki sauce should be glossy but not overly runny.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, absolutely! Simply use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce or make your own with tamari, which is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious meal without worry. Also, always check other ingredients like broth before using them to ensure they are gluten-free.
How can I customize Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli for picky eaters?
There are several ways to make this dish appealing for different palates! You can substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version. Additionally, including other colorful veggies like bell peppers or snap peas adds visual appeal while boosting nutrition. Try involving your family in choosing their favorite ingredients – the more, the merrier!
Savory Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli That's Ready in 30 Minutes
Equipment
- large skillet
Ingredients
For the Beef and Broccoli
- 1 lb Ground Beef (80% lean)
- 1 head Broccoli Look for tight, dark green florets
For the Sauce and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Essential for sautéing
- 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger Fresh is best
- 3 cloves Minced Garlic Avoid burning
- ½ cup Teriyaki Sauce Choose gluten-free if required
For Garnishing
- 2 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds For nutty crunch
- 2 scallions Sliced Scallions Use fresh
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes until they develop a slight char. Stir and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until nearly tender. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add ½ tablespoon of olive oil, then add the ground beef. Brown on one side for about 3-4 minutes. Break apart with a spatula and cook until fully browned for another 3-4 minutes, draining excess fat if necessary.
- Create a space in the center of the browned ground beef by pushing it to the sides. Add the remaining ½ tablespoon of olive oil, minced ginger, and minced garlic. Cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, avoiding burning the garlic.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce into the skillet, stirring gently to ensure even coating. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the sautéed broccoli to the skillet, gently folding it into the ground beef. Stir together for 1-2 minutes until heated through while maintaining the broccoli's color and crispness.
- Serve over steamed rice or cauliflower rice. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions. Enjoy your homemade delight!
