This Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli dish is a tasty mix of savory beef and crisp broccoli, all drizzled with a sweet and tangy Yum Yum sauce. It’s quick to make and perfect for busy nights!
Honestly, who can resist that creamy Yum Yum sauce? I love to serve this over rice, and trust me, you’ll want every last drop on your plate. Enjoy your homemade takeout! 🍚
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but ground turkey or chicken can work well too. If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative, try using lentils or crumbled tofu, seasoned well.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are best for this dish, but frozen broccoli can also work if you’re short on time. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before cooking.
Teriyaki Sauce: Bottled teriyaki sauce is convenient but homemade is always tastier! You can make your own by mixing soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic if you prefer a fresher flavor.
Sesame Oil: This adds a wonderful nutty flavor. If you don’t have sesame oil, use olive oil or vegetable oil. It won’t be quite the same, but it will still be tasty!
Yum Yum Sauce: I love this sauce! If you want a lighter version, try Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add hot sauce if you like some heat!
How Do I Cook Broccoli to Keep It Tender-Crisp?
Cooking broccoli just right can be tricky! You want it tender but still with a bit of crunch. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 5-6 minutes. Keep an eye on it – you want them to turn bright green but still firm.
- Remove the broccoli from the skillet as soon as it’s tender-crisp to prevent overcooking.
This technique works well and retains the nutrients and vibrant color. Plus, no one likes soggy broccoli!
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 (for serving)
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (bottled or homemade)
- 2 tbsp sesame oil (divided)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Yum Yum Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1-2 tsp water (to thin, as needed)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and tasty option for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yum Yum Sauce:
Start by making the Yum Yum Sauce! In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, rice vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth. If you want a thinner sauce, add a little water, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Pop it in the fridge while you cook the rest of the meal.
2. Cook the Broccoli:
Grab a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the broccoli florets. Sauté them for about 5-6 minutes until they’re tender-crisp—just the way we like them! Once they’re done, take the broccoli off the heat and set it aside for now.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil and let it heat for a minute. Then, toss in the ground beef along with some salt and pepper to taste. Cook the beef over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, until it’s nice and browned all the way through.
4. Combine with Teriyaki Sauce:
Once your beef is cooked, pour in the teriyaki sauce and stir it all together to coat the beef evenly. Then, add the cooked broccoli back into the skillet and give everything a good toss to combine. Heat it all together for another 1-2 minutes until everything is hot and yummy.
5. Serve:
To serve your delicious meal, take a bowl and place a scoop of cooked rice at the bottom. Top it with the beef and broccoli mixture. Don’t forget to drizzle the Yum Yum Sauce over the top! For a final touch, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
6. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli with a delightful Yum Yum Sauce!
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey or Chicken for the Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of ground beef for a leaner option. Just be sure to cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, as poultry has different cooking times.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, separate the rice from the beef and broccoli to prevent the rice from becoming mushy. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make the Yum Yum Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! The Yum Yum Sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Just keep it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before serving, and add a bit of water if it thickens up too much.
What Alternatives Can I Use for Teriyaki Sauce?
If you don’t have teriyaki sauce on hand, you can easily substitute with soy sauce mixed with a little honey or brown sugar for sweetness, along with some garlic and ginger for added flavor. Just adjust to taste!
