This Easy Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli dish is super tasty! It features juicy beef and fresh broccoli, all tossed in a sweet teriyaki sauce that makes it special.
I love how quickly this meal comes together—perfect for busy weeknights! Plus, that Yum Yum sauce on top? It’s like a little party for your taste buds! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef for this dish, as it gives a nice flavor without too much grease. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken works well too, providing a lighter option.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are ideal because they hold their crunch during cooking. However, if you’re short on time, frozen broccoli can be a good substitute! Just reduce cooking time slightly.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce is key for the teriyaki flavor. If you’re mindful of sodium, try low-sodium soy sauce or tamari, which is gluten-free. For a sweeter alternative, you could use coconut aminos.
Mayonnaise: For the Yum Yum sauce, regular mayonnaise works wonders, but you could use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a lighter or dairy-free version.
How Do I Cook Broccoli to Keep It Crunchy?
Cooking broccoli just right can be tricky! You want it tender enough to eat but still crisp and vibrant. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start by heating the skillet to medium-high heat and add oil.
- Add the broccoli florets and sauté for just 3-4 minutes. This quick cooking keeps them bright green and crunchy.
- Remember to remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re done to prevent overcooking!
What’s the Best Way to Make the Teriyaki Sauce?
Making teriyaki sauce is super easy! Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, water, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a bowl.
- Mix well until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the cornstarch slurry while cooking to help it thicken nicely. Stir continuously for best results!
This sauce brings out amazing flavors that pair perfectly with the beef and broccoli! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy 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 (about 1 medium head)
- 2 cups cooked white rice (prepare separately)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
For the Yum Yum Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons hot sauce (to taste, optional)
- 1 tablespoon water (to thin, if needed)
For Garnishes:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds (white and/or black)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 15-20 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 30-35 minutes. You’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by cooking the white rice according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, keep it warm to serve later.
2. Make the Yum Yum Sauce:
While the rice is cooking, prepare the Yum Yum sauce. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, melted butter, garlic powder, smoked paprika, hot sauce (if using), and a tablespoon of water. Mix well until smooth. Taste and adjust if necessary. Cover with plastic wrap and set it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
3. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:
In another small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, water, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This mixture will add a delicious flavor to your dish.
4. Cook the Broccoli:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the broccoli florets. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set aside.
5. Cook the Ground Beef:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Then, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula, cooking it until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off.
6. Combine Beef and Broccoli:
Add the cooked broccoli back into the skillet with the ground beef. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the beef and broccoli mixture. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce, and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. If you’re using the cornstarch slurry, add it in now, cooking until the sauce is glossy and coats the beef and broccoli nicely.
7. Assemble the Bowls:
To serve, divide the cooked rice among serving bowls. Spoon the teriyaki ground beef and broccoli mixture onto one side of the rice.
8. Add Toppings:
Finally, drizzle the Yum Yum sauce over the beef and broccoli, and garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
9. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your flavorful and easy Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli bowl, complete with creamy Yum Yum sauce on top!
This quick recipe brings together tender beef, crunchy broccoli, and a savory-sweet sauce, all topped off with a delightful creamy Yum Yum sauce for an incredible meal everyone will love!
FAQ for Easy Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli with Yum Yum Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen broccoli! Just be sure to thaw it first and drain off any excess moisture. Sauté it for a shorter time—about 2-3 minutes—until just heated through to keep it vibrant and crisp.
Can I Prep the Yum Yum Sauce in Advance?
Definitely! The Yum Yum sauce can be made up to a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and give it a good stir before serving to ensure it’s nice and creamy.
Is There a Substitute for Ground Beef?
Sure! Ground turkey or chicken makes great substitutes if you prefer a leaner option. You can also use plant-based ground meat alternatives for a vegetarian or vegan twist.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef and broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Be sure to reheat gently over low heat for the best texture!
