This Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli dish is a quick and yummy meal that combines juicy beef with crunchy broccoli, all tossed in a sweet teriyaki sauce. Who doesn’t love that combo?
And let’s not forget the yum yum sauce—it adds a creamy, tasty twist that makes everything even better. I could eat this for dinner every night and wouldn’t complain at all! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe calls for ground beef, which is flavorful and cooks quickly. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, try using soy crumbles or lentils instead.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are a must for this dish! If broccoli isn’t available, feel free to use green beans, snap peas, or bell peppers for a nice crunch. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed for different veggies.
Teriyaki Sauce: A key flavor element! You could use store-bought teriyaki sauce or make your own with soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger. Tamari or coconut aminos can act as gluten-free alternatives. Adjust quantity based on your taste; I like a little extra for more flavor!
Yum Yum Sauce: This tangy sauce adds great flavor! If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise, and honey can substitute for sugar. I love adding a splash of sriracha for a spicy kick!
How Do You Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef seems simple, but doing it right makes all the difference! You want it evenly cooked and flavorful. Here are some tips:
- Use a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to ensure even cooking.
- Add canola oil before the meat to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Break the meat up with a wooden spoon, mixing it well so it browns evenly.
- Cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes, and drain excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
How to Make Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli with Yum Yum Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons canola oil (or any cooking oil)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the Yum Yum Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll spend around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Quick, easy, and oh-so-tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yum Yum Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until it’s nice and smooth. Taste your sauce and feel free to adjust the seasoning if you want it more flavorful. Once mixed, set this fun sauce aside.
2. Cook the Beef:
Grab a large skillet or wok and place it on the stove over medium-high heat. Pour in the canola oil and let it warm up. Next, add the ground beef and use a spoon to break it apart. Cook until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. When it’s done, drain any excess fat from the pan for a lighter dish.
3. Add Broccoli:
Now it’s time to add some greens! Toss the broccoli florets into the skillet with the browned beef. Pour the teriyaki sauce over everything and give it a good stir to combine. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and has soaked up all that yummy teriyaki flavor.
4. Serve:
To serve, place a scoop of the cooked white rice in each bowl as a cozy base. Spoon the delicious beef and broccoli mixture on top of the rice, creating a lovely, savory mound.
5. Garnish:
Time to elevate your dish! Drizzle your homemade Yum Yum sauce generously over the beef and broccoli. Then, sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top for a beautiful finish.
6. Enjoy:
Dig in while it’s warm and enjoy the amazing flavors of your Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli with Yum Yum Sauce! You can always adjust the amount of teriyaki and Yum Yum sauce to cater to your taste preferences. Happy eating!
Can I Use a Different Protein Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times as needed, especially for turkey and chicken, to ensure they are thoroughly cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Teriyaki Sauce?
If you don’t have teriyaki sauce on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing soy sauce with a bit of honey or brown sugar. Alternatively, a combination of soy sauce, mirin (or rice vinegar), and a pinch of sugar can work well too. Adjust the sweetness to your liking!
Can I Make the Yum Yum Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Yum Yum sauce ahead of time! Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even tastier when you’re ready to serve.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover beef and broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture. When reheating the Yum Yum sauce, stir it well before serving!