If you’re looking for a dinner that hits all the right flavor notes — savory, slightly sweet, with a little kick — then get ready to fall in love with this Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Skillet Recipe. It brings together tender ground beef and crisp-tender broccoli, all coated in a luscious teriyaki glaze that clings to every bite. Plus, the creamy, tangy spicy sauce on the side takes it to the next level, making weeknight meals feel like a special occasion. It’s quick, simple, and so satisfying you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe’s magic lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, building layers of flavor and texture while keeping the dish balanced and colorful.
- Olive Oil: Used in stages to perfectly cook the broccoli and brown the beef, bringing out their natural flavors.
- Broccoli Florets: Provide that fresh crunch and vibrant green color, plus a healthy bite.
- Ground Beef: The hearty base of the dish, giving it savory richness and protein.
- Minced Ginger (optional): Adds a subtle zing and warmth that brightens the whole skillet.
- Minced Garlic (optional): Infuses the beef with its classic, aromatic punch.
- Teriyaki Sauce: The star glaze that locks in sweetness and a touch of saltiness.
- Light Mayo: Combines in the spicy mayo for a creamy, slightly tangy finish.
- Sriracha or Chili Garlic Sauce: Injects a lively heat to balance the sweetness.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps mellow the spicy elements.
- Rice Vinegar: Provides a subtle acidity that brightens the sauce.
- Garlic Powder: Rounds out the spicy mayo mix with a deeper garlic flavor.
- Rice or Cauliflower Rice: A satisfying base for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle on top for a nutty crunch and visual appeal.
- Scallions: Thinly sliced to add a fresh, oniony crispness as garnish.
How to Make Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spicy Mayo Sauce
Before you dive into cooking the beef and broccoli, mix the light mayo, sriracha (or chili garlic sauce), honey, rice vinegar, and garlic powder in a small bowl. This simple but flavor-packed sauce is a perfect spicy and tangy companion to your skillet. Set it aside so the flavors can meld while you cook the main dish.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in your skillet. Add the broccoli florets and let them cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes to get a nice char on one side. Flip them over and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. This method preserves the broccoli’s bright color and adds a subtle smokiness that makes every bite exciting. Once done, transfer the broccoli to a bowl and keep it warm.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Using the same skillet, add half a tablespoon of olive oil and the ground beef. Let it cook on one side without stirring initially so it can develop a rich brown crust, then start breaking it apart. Browning properly brings out savory depth and texture to the beef, which is essential for a delicious Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Skillet Recipe. Cook it until it’s fully browned and no pink remains.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
Create a small well in the center of the cooked ground beef and add the remaining half tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced ginger and garlic (if using), cooking just 30-60 seconds until their fragrance fills your kitchen. This step infuses the beef with fresh, lively notes that balance the dish’s rich and sweet flavors perfectly.
Step 5: Add Teriyaki Sauce
Pour the teriyaki sauce over the beef mixture and stir well to coat everything evenly. Keep cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the beef, locking in all that sweet-savory goodness that makes this Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Skillet Recipe so comforting and delicious.
Step 6: Combine with Broccoli and Finish
Return your cooked broccoli to the skillet and stir gently to combine. The goal is to evenly coat every bit of broccoli and beef in that sticky teriyaki sauce without overcooking. Turn off the heat and give it one last mix to marry the flavors. This step ensures your dish stays vibrant, saucy, and full of contrasting textures.
Step 7: Serve
Spoon the teriyaki beef and broccoli over warm bowls of rice or cauliflower rice, depending on your preference. Add toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions on top for an extra dimension of flavor, texture, and color. Now you’re all set to enjoy a meal that tastes like a restaurant favorite but was made in your own kitchen!
How to Serve Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing with toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and a nutty aroma that brightens up each bite. The thinly sliced scallions bring a fresh, mild onion flavor that balances the dish’s rich sauce perfectly, making every mouthful even more satisfying.
Side Dishes
This skillet pairs beautifully with steamed white or brown rice to soak up all the luscious sauce. For a lower-carb option, fluffy cauliflower rice works just as well, offering a subtle texture that complements the boldness of the beef and teriyaki glaze.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish in lettuce cups for a fun, finger-food twist that adds crunch and freshness. Alternatively, layer the teriyaki ground beef and broccoli over noodles or inside a warm tortilla for a fusion-style wrap. These creative spins keep the Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Skillet Recipe exciting and family-friendly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delicious. Make sure everything is cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Portion it out beforehand for easy thawing. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Reheating
Reheat the skillet contents in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water or broth can help prevent drying out. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but be sure to cover the dish to keep moisture locked in.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Both ground chicken and turkey work well and make the dish lighter. Just adjust the cooking time so it’s fully browned and cooked through, and the teriyaki sauce will still shine beautifully.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just be sure to use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce or make your own at home with tamari. Double-check other sauces like sriracha to confirm they’re gluten-free as well.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level depends on how much sriracha you add to the spicy mayo. You can easily adjust the amount for a milder or hotter dish, making it perfect for all spice preferences.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The spicy mayo sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. This lets the flavors meld beautifully and saves time on busy evenings.
What’s the best rice option to serve this with?
Jasmine or short-grain white rice pairs exceptionally well because it’s sticky enough to hold the delicious sauce. Brown rice or cauliflower rice are excellent alternatives for more fiber or a lower-carb meal.
Final Thoughts
This Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Skillet Recipe is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s quick, comforting, and layered with so many great flavors that you’ll wonder how something so simple can taste this good. Give it a try and watch it become a fast favorite in your home, bringing smiles to every mealtime conversation.
Print
Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is a quick and flavorful stir-fry dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender ground beef and crisp broccoli florets are cooked in a savory teriyaki sauce and finished with a spicy, tangy mayo-based drizzle. Served over rice or cauliflower rice, this recipe combines sweet, savory, and spicy flavors with a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil, divided
- 12 oz Broccoli Florets
- 1 pound Ground Beef
Aromatics
- 1″ piece Ginger, minced (optional)
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced (optional)
Teriyaki Sauce Mixture
- 1 cup Teriyaki Sauce
Spicy Mayo Sauce
- 1/4 cup (60g) Light Mayo
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons (23g) Sriracha or Chili Garlic Sauce
- 1 Tablespoon (21g) Honey
- 1 Tablespoon (15g) Rice Vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
For Serving
- Rice or Cauliflower Rice
- Toasted Sesame Seeds
- Scallions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the light mayo, sriracha or chili garlic sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and garlic powder until well combined. Set aside to serve as a spicy and tangy accompaniment to the main dish.
- Cook the broccoli: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the broccoli florets and cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes until slightly charred on one side. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove broccoli and set aside in a bowl.
- Brown the ground beef: In the same skillet, add 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the ground beef and let it cook undisturbed on one side until browned. Then break it apart and continue cooking until fully browned and cooked through.
- Add aromatics: Create a small well in the center of the cooked beef. Pour in remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, add minced ginger and garlic. Cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant, then stir everything together with the beef.
- Add teriyaki sauce: Pour the teriyaki sauce over the beef mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef nicely.
- Combine with broccoli and finish: Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet and stir to incorporate evenly with the beef and sauce. Turn off heat and mix well to coat everything.
- Serve: Spoon the teriyaki ground beef and broccoli mixture over warmed rice or cauliflower rice. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- If preferred, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha or chili garlic sauce in the spicy mayo to your desired heat level.
- Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative to regular rice.
- Fresh ginger and garlic add depth of flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking broccoli to achieve a good char.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
