Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe

I absolutely love making this Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe because it’s quick, flavorful, and hearty — perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty but don’t want to fuss. The combination of tender ground beef with crisp broccoli, all coated in a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce, feels like a warm hug in every bite.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it is to pull together with simple ingredients you probably already have. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice or cauliflower rice, so you can customize it to your preferences. If you’re looking for that perfect balance between savory and slightly sweet with a hint of spice, this Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe is worth making again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe plays a part in creating a harmony of flavors and textures. When you shop, look for fresh broccoli with tight florets and quality ground beef to ensure the best results.

• Olive Oil: Using it in divided amounts helps properly brown both the broccoli and beef without burning.
• Broccoli Florets: Choose fresh, crisp florets for that satisfying crunch and natural sweetness.
• Ground Beef: I recommend using 85% lean for the best flavor without too much grease.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a bright, spicy zing that’s a nice complement but you can skip it if you’re out.
• Garlic: Minced garlic brings an aromatic depth that makes this recipe sing.
• Teriyaki Sauce: Homemade or store-bought both work; just pick one with a balanced sweetness.
• Light Mayo: Adds creaminess to the sauce without overpowering it.
• Sriracha or Chili Garlic Sauce: Gives the sauce a spicy kick that you can adjust to taste.
• Honey: Sweetness that balances the heat and tang.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds a subtle acidity to brighten the sauce.
• Garlic Powder: Deepens the garlic flavor in the sauce.
• Rice or Cauliflower Rice: Ideal bases to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds & Scallions: My favorite garnishes — they add crunch and freshness.

Variations

I love that you can tweak this Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe to fit different moods or dietary needs. Personalizing it makes the dish your own, and it’s fun to try different twists as you get more comfortable.

• Swap the Beef for Ground Turkey: I once tried this with ground turkey for a lighter option, and it still turned out deliciously saucy and satisfying.
• Make It Vegan: Use crumbled tofu or tempeh instead of meat, and replace mayo with a vegan version — it’s surprisingly good.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to add more sriracha or chili sauce if you love heat, or skip it for a milder dish.

How to Make Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Char the Broccoli to Perfection

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and resist the urge to stir them too soon — let them sit for 2-3 minutes until you see a nice char on one side. This step gives the broccoli a fantastic smoky flavor. Then, flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Transfer the broccoli to a bowl and set aside to keep it from overcooking.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In the same skillet, add half a tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat up before adding your ground beef. Let the beef brown without stirring for a few minutes — this helps build flavor and texture. Then break it apart and cook until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease if necessary to avoid a greasy final dish.

Step 3: Build the Flavor with Aromatics

Create a little well in the center of the pan, add the remaining olive oil, then toss in the minced ginger and garlic. Cook for just 30 to 60 seconds until you can smell their amazing aroma — don’t let them burn! Then stir everything together so the flavors meld into the beef.

Step 4: Add the Teriyaki Sauce and Broccoli

Pour in the teriyaki sauce and stir to coat the beef evenly. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes until thickened and starting to stick to the meat. Then fold in the charred broccoli, turn off the heat, and combine everything well. The broccoli will soak up those flavors without getting mushy.

Step 5: Prepare the Spicy Cream Sauce

While cooking the beef and broccoli, mix the sauce ingredients — light mayo, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and garlic powder — in a small bowl. This creamy spicy sauce adds a cool counterpoint that makes every bite exciting when drizzled on top or mixed in as you serve.

How to Serve Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Garnishes

I always sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions over this dish before serving — they add crunch, freshness, and that classic Asian-inspired look. Sometimes, a little extra drizzle of the creamy spicy sauce rounds it out perfectly.

Side Dishes

My go-to is a simple bed of steamed white or brown rice, but cauliflower rice works wonderfully if you’re keeping it low-carb. For a green side, I sometimes serve quick pickled cucumbers or a simple salad to lighten the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist when hosting friends, I’ve served this in individual lettuce cups — the crispness adds a refreshing bite and makes for an interactive meal. You can also use it as a topping for baked sweet potatoes to mix things up.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the dish tastier the next day! Just keep the spicy mayo sauce separate to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish before by letting it cool completely, then transferring to freezer-safe containers. It reheats well, although the broccoli softens a bit. I’d recommend freezing without the spicy mayo sauce and adding it fresh after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warm. Adding a splash of water or broth helps prevent drying out. Then top with your fresh garnishes and creamy sauce for the best experience.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe has become one of my all-time favorites for a reason — it’s quick, satisfying, and full of bold flavors that just come together beautifully. I highly recommend giving it a try, especially if you want a comforting yet simple dinner you can whip up any night of the week. Trust me, once you make this, it’s going to be a go-to in your meal rotation, just like it is in mine!

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