This Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick and delicious take on a classic stir-fry. It features tender ground beef, crisp broccoli, and a rich, sweet-savory teriyaki sauce that brings everything together. The best part? It’s made in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
The combination of umami-packed beef and vibrant green broccoli makes this dish both visually appealing and incredibly satisfying. Serve it over a steaming bowl of rice or noodles for a complete meal that tastes just like your favorite takeout—only better and homemade!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Directions:
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sesame oil and ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat and add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth. Let simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet and stir well. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets, cover, and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot over cooked rice.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 385 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines savory, slightly sweet teriyaki sauce with tender ground beef and crisp broccoli florets. This recipe is a fantastic alternative to traditional takeout dishes and can be made at home in under 30 minutes. Not only is it flavorful, but it is also budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for families looking for quick and nutritious meals.
The Origin of Teriyaki: A Japanese Classic with a Western Twist
The term “teriyaki” comes from the Japanese words “teri”, meaning luster or shine, and “yaki”, which refers to grilling or broiling. Traditional Japanese teriyaki involves grilling meat, fish, or tofu and basting it with a glaze made of soy sauce, mirin (a sweet rice wine), and sugar. However, as Japanese cuisine spread globally, variations of teriyaki sauce emerged, particularly in the United States.
Western adaptations often include additional ingredients like garlic, ginger, honey, or cornstarch to create a thicker, more intense sauce. The use of ground beef in this recipe is a modern twist that makes it quicker to prepare compared to classic teriyaki dishes that use sliced beef or chicken.
Why This Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe is the Best
- Quick and Easy to Make
- This dish takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Unlike traditional stir-fry dishes that require slicing and marinating meat, ground beef cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
- Budget-Friendly
- Ground beef is often more affordable than steak or chicken, making this recipe cost-effective while still being rich in protein and flavor.
- Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is affordable year-round and pairs beautifully with the teriyaki sauce.
- Healthier than Takeout
- Many takeout versions of beef and broccoli come with hidden sugars, sodium, and unhealthy oils.
- By making this dish at home, you have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to use low-sodium soy sauce, less sugar, and healthy oils like sesame oil.
- Customizable and Versatile
- This recipe can be adapted to various dietary needs.
- Want it lower in carbs? Serve it over cauliflower rice instead of white rice.
- Need a gluten-free option? Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Looking for more protein? Add scrambled eggs or top with sesame seeds and cashews for extra texture.
- Packed with Nutrients
- Broccoli is high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, supporting overall health.
- Lean ground beef provides high-quality protein, iron, and essential B vitamins for energy and muscle repair.
- Ginger and garlic, commonly used in teriyaki dishes, offer anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
1. Ground Beef
- A rich source of protein, iron, and B vitamins.
- Choose lean ground beef (90/10 or 85/15) for a healthier version.
- Can be substituted with ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based meat alternatives.
2. Broccoli
- High in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C, supporting immune health.
- A low-calorie vegetable that adds texture and color.
- Can be replaced with snap peas, bell peppers, or carrots for variety.
3. Teriyaki Sauce (Soy Sauce, Brown Sugar, Ginger, Garlic, Sesame Oil)
- Soy sauce provides umami depth and is a good source of protein.
- Brown sugar or honey balances the saltiness with natural sweetness.
- Ginger and garlic enhance flavor while offering anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Sesame oil adds nutty richness and helps in absorbing fat-soluble vitamins.
How to Make the Perfect Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the broccoli into small florets for even cooking.
- Mince the garlic and ginger finely to infuse the sauce with bold flavors.
- Mix the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) to help thicken the sauce later.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat sesame oil in a pan and cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Drain excess fat if needed, keeping just enough to coat the beef for moisture.
- Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) for a spicy kick.
Step 3: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
- Stir in soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth, allowing it to simmer for a minute.
- Add the cornstarch slurry and let it thicken into a glossy, sticky sauce.
Step 4: Add the Broccoli
- Toss in the broccoli florets and cover the pan to steam for 3-4 minutes.
- The broccoli should be bright green and slightly crisp for the best texture.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds for extra freshness and crunch.
- Serve over white rice, brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Variations and Customization Ideas
✅ Make it Spicy: Add sriracha, chili flakes, or gochujang for extra heat.
✅ Make it Low-Carb: Swap regular soy sauce for coconut aminos and serve over cauliflower rice.
✅ Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms.
✅ Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
✅ Extra Veggies: Add carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas for more color and nutrition.
Best Ways to Serve Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli
Classic: Serve with steamed jasmine rice for a traditional pairing.
Noodles: Toss with udon, soba, or rice noodles for an Asian-style stir-fry.
Low-Carb: Serve over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or lettuce wraps.
Fusion: Use the filling inside tortillas or lettuce cups for a fun twist.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
Make Ahead: This dish stores well for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes, or stir-fry in a pan for a fresher taste.
Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try This Recipe Today
Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli is a delicious, fast, and versatile dish that satisfies cravings while keeping things nutritious. Its balance of sweet and savory flavors, paired with crisp broccoli and tender beef, makes it a go-to meal for families, meal preppers, and anyone who loves bold flavors.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner, meal prep recipe, or a healthier alternative to takeout, this dish delivers on all fronts. Plus, it’s completely customizable—so you can make it spicy, gluten-free, or low-carb, depending on your dietary needs.
So, grab your skillet and ingredients and give this homemade teriyaki beef and broccoli a try today! You’ll love how simple yet flavorful it is.
Conclusion:
Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli is a dish that checks all the right boxes—quick, flavorful, nutritious, and budget-friendly. Whether you’re a busy professional, a home cook looking for an easy dinner idea, or someone trying to cut down on takeout, this recipe is a perfect fit. With its savory-sweet teriyaki sauce, tender beef, and crisp broccoli, it delivers restaurant-quality flavors in the comfort of your own kitchen.
One of the biggest advantages of this dish is its versatility—it can be customized to fit different dietary preferences, from gluten-free to low-carb. Plus, it’s a great meal-prep option, storing well for several days and making weeknight dinners effortless.
By making this at home, you get full control over the ingredients, allowing you to use less sugar, high-quality protein, and fresh vegetables. Not only does this make the dish healthier than takeout, but it also ensures rich, bold flavors in every bite.
So, the next time you’re craving something savory, satisfying, and easy to prepare, give this Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli a try. It’s a delicious reminder that home-cooked meals can be just as exciting and flavorful as restaurant dishes—without the long wait or extra cost. Enjoy!