This easy teriyaki ground beef and broccoli meal is quick to whip up and super tasty! The sweet teriyaki sauce brings everything together, while the broccoli adds a nice crunch.
If you love a bit of zing, don’t forget the yum yum sauce—it’s perfect for drizzling over the top! I could eat this any night of the week, and it’s ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its rich flavor, but you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re looking to go vegetarian, try using crumbled tofu or tempeh instead!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives a nice crunch, but you can also use frozen broccoli florets if they’re more convenient. Other vegetables like snap peas or bell peppers can work too, just adjust the cooking time so they stay crisp!
Rice: Jasmine or short grain rice is perfect, but any rice works! Quinoa or cauliflower rice can be great alternatives for a healthier twist. For a gluten-free option, make sure to check the soy sauce or use tamari instead.
Mirin: If you don’t have mirin, mixing sugar with water (as suggested) works! For a non-alcoholic option, you can also use apple cider vinegar mixed with a little sugar for sweetness.
How Do I Make the Yum Yum Sauce Just Right?
The yum yum sauce is a star in this recipe, and it’s easy to make! Combining mayo, tomato paste, and a few seasonings gives it a unique flavor. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Start with mayo as the base for creaminess.
- Mix in tomato paste for a touch of sweetness and color.
- Add melted butter, garlic powder, and onion powder for extra flavor.
- Adjust the heat with sriracha; start small and add more to taste.
- If the sauce is too thick, just whisk in a little water until it’s drizzly!
Making this sauce ahead of time allows the flavors to blend well. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Broccoli?
Cooking broccoli perfectly ensures it stays bright and crunchy. Here’s my go-to method:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This keeps the broccoli from steaming.
- Add the broccoli and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, keeping it moving to avoid burning.
- You want them tender but still with a nice bite. They should be bright green with some char.
Removing the broccoli from the skillet before cooking the beef keeps it from getting overcooked. Add it back in later for the best texture!
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 (jasmine or short grain preferred)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons mirin (or substitute with 1 tbsp sugar + 1 tbsp water)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced thin
- Toasted black and white sesame seeds, for garnish
For the Yum Yum Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 tablespoons tomato paste or ketchup
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 to 2 teaspoons sriracha or hot sauce (adjust for spice preference)
- Water, to thin as needed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and cooking. It’s quick to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. Just a little bit of chopping, cooking, and assembling, and you’re set!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Yum Yum Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, tomato paste, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, rice vinegar, sugar, and sriracha until smooth. If your sauce feels too thick, add water one teaspoon at a time until it reaches your desired drizzling consistency. Pop it in the fridge while you work on the main dish to let the flavors meld together.
2. Cook the Rice:
While preparing the sauce, cook your rice according to the package instructions and keep it warm for serving later.
3. Cook the Broccoli:
Next, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes, until they’re bright green and slightly tender. You want them to have some nice charred spots! Once done, remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Cook the Ground Beef:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until they are fragrant. Then, add in the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Feel free to drain any excess fat if necessary.
5. Make the Teriyaki Sauce & Combine:
Stir in the soy sauce, mirin, and honey into the cooked beef. Pour in the cornstarch slurry and mix until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the beef. Finally, return the steamed broccoli to the skillet and toss everything together to combine well and heat through.
6. Assemble the Bowl:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Divide the warm rice between your serving bowls and top each bowl with the teriyaki ground beef and broccoli mixture.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Drizzle the yum yum sauce generously over the top, and finish off with a sprinkle of sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for that extra touch. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful meal!
This dish comes together quickly and offers a rich, savory teriyaki flavor complemented perfectly by the creamy, tangy-yet-spicy yum yum sauce. Bon appétit!
FAQ: Easy Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli with Yum Yum Sauce
Can I Use Ground Chicken or Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can be used as a leaner alternative. They will provide a slightly different flavor but will still work wonderfully in this recipe. Just cook until fully browned, similar to the ground beef.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can do so in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep the dish moist.
Can I Make the Yum Yum Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! The yum yum sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. This allows the flavors to blend nicely. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken slightly when chilled.
What Other Vegetables Can I Use?
Feel free to mix it up! Other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can also be used. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so they maintain their crunch. Stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes for optimal texture!
