This Easy Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli is a winner! Juicy beef is cooked with fresh broccoli, all coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. Yum Yum Sauce adds a fun twist!
Every bite feels like a little party in your mouth! I love serving it over rice for a complete meal. Perfect for weeknights when you want something quick and tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its ease and flavor. You can substitute with ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds a great crunch and nutrients. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli works too! Just thaw it before cooking to save time.
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce is my go-to for less salt without sacrificing flavor. Tamari is a gluten-free option, while coconut aminos can work for a soy-free alternative.
Yum Yum Sauce: For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It adds creaminess while boosting protein. You can also adjust the spice level by varying the hot sauce amount.
How Do I Cook Broccoli Perfectly?
Cooking broccoli just right ensures it’s vibrant and crunchy! Here’s how:
- Heat oil in your skillet to medium-high temperature.
- Add broccoli and stir-fry for just 3-4 minutes. This quick cooking method keeps it bright green and crisp-tender.
- Don’t overcook it! Remove it from the skillet as soon as it turns bright green to avoid sogginess.
Tip: You can also add a splash of water and cover the pan for a few moments to steam the broccoli slightly for a different texture!
Easy Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli with Yum Yum Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 tbsp mirin or rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger or 1 tsp fresh grated ginger
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tbsp water (to mix with cornstarch)
- Cooked white jasmine rice, to serve
- Sesame seeds (black and/or white), for garnish
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
For the Yum Yum Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or regular paprika
- 1 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp melted butter (optional)
- A few drops of hot sauce or sriracha (adjust to taste)
- Water to thin, if needed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes making the Yum Yum Sauce and cooking the beef and broccoli, plus an additional 20 minutes for everything to come together. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yum Yum Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, garlic powder, paprika, sugar, rice vinegar, melted butter, and a few drops of hot sauce. If it’s too thick, add water a teaspoon at a time until it’s the desired consistency. Set this tasty sauce aside in the fridge while you cook.
2. Cook the Broccoli:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they turn a bright green and are slightly crisp-tender. Once done, remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Beef:
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it.
4. Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, mirin or rice vinegar, sesame oil, and ginger. This will be the star flavor for your beef and broccoli!
5. Combine:
Return the broccoli to the skillet with the cooked beef. Pour the teriyaki sauce over everything and give it a good stir until all ingredients are combined and coated in the sauce.
6. Thicken (Optional):
If you like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with the water until smooth, and then stir it into the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings beautifully to the beef and broccoli.
7. Assemble the Bowl:
Serve the flavorful teriyaki beef and broccoli over cooked jasmine rice in bowls.
8. Garnish:
Generously drizzle the Yum Yum Sauce over the beef, broccoli, and rice. Don’t forget to sprinkle with black and white sesame seeds and chopped green onions for that extra touch!
9. Serve immediately:
Enjoy every bite of your easy, flavorful Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli bowl topped with the delicious Yum Yum Sauce!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian version of this dish. Each option will provide a slightly different flavor profile, but all will work well with the teriyaki sauce!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing it. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make the Yum Yum Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the Yum Yum Sauce a day in advance! Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld together even more, making it extra tasty when serving.
What Vegetables Can I Add to This Dish?
You can definitely add other vegetables! Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots would complement the beef and broccoli beautifully. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure all vegetables are perfectly cooked but still crisp!
