Need a quick weeknight dinner solution? Try this easy one-pan teriyaki ground beef and broccoli recipe, a homemade family favorite, and save for later

One-Pan Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Dinner

Introduction

Imagine a dinner that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, requiring just one pan and a handful of everyday ingredients. The One-Pan Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Dinner is a culinary gem that checks all the boxes: it’s flavorful, creative, and can be prepared in no time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to impress your family with a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss. The combination of savory ground beef, tender broccoli, and the sweet, tangy essence of teriyaki sauce, all cooked to perfection in one pan, is a true winner.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The key to this dish is the balance of flavors achieved by combining ground beef, broccoli, and teriyaki sauce. All ingredients are readily available in most supermarkets, making it accessible to everyone.
Ease of preparation: Cooking everything in one pan simplifies the process, reducing cleanup and preparation time. It’s perfect for those who want a hassle-free cooking experience.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this dish presents beautifully and tastes amazing, making it suitable for both family dinners and special occasions.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include ground beef, broccoli, teriyaki sauce, garlic, ginger, and olive oil. For those looking for substitutions, ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef, and frozen broccoli can be used if fresh is not available. Additionally, homemade teriyaki sauce can be made with soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, garlic, and ginger for a more personalized flavor profile.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Chop the broccoli into florets, mince the garlic and ginger, and measure out the teriyaki sauce and olive oil.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
Step 3: Once the beef is cooked, add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for about a minute, until fragrant. Then, add the broccoli to the pan and cook until it starts to tenderize. Finally, pour in the teriyaki sauce and stir to combine, letting everything simmer together for a few minutes until the broccoli is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 4: For the final touches, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve the teriyaki ground beef and broccoli hot over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor and texture.

Handy Tips

Use high-quality teriyaki sauce for the best flavor, or make your own for a more authentic taste.
Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should retain some crunch to provide a nice texture contrast to the dish.
Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it more versatile.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial in this recipe. Start with medium-high heat to brown the ground beef, then reduce the heat to medium to cook the broccoli and simmer the teriyaki sauce. This ensures that the beef is cooked thoroughly, and the broccoli is tender but not overcooked. The ideal internal temperature for ground beef is at least 160°F (71°C) to ensure food safety.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right crunch factor in this dish is about balance. The broccoli should be cooked until it’s tender but still crisp, providing a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the cooked ground beef. To achieve this, monitor the cooking time of the broccoli closely, and consider adding it towards the end of the cooking process so it retains its texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

For easier cleanup, line your pan with parchment paper before cooking, especially if using a lot of sauce.
Use a cast-iron or stainless steel pan for even heat distribution and to prevent the sauce from sticking.
Prepare ingredients ahead of time and store them in separate containers to streamline the cooking process.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked dish in airtight, freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen, adding a bit more teriyaki sauce if needed to refresh the flavors.
When reheating, add a splash of water or teriyaki sauce to prevent drying out the dish.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While this dish is primarily designed for immediate consumption, it can be packaged and gifted in creative ways. Consider portioning the cooled dish into microwave-safe containers, topping with fresh green onions and sesame seeds, and including a packet of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Add a personal touch with a handwritten recipe card or a small bottle of teriyaki sauce for extra flavor.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Different spices: Experiment with adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or a bit of cumin for a smoky flavor.
🌟 Creative toppings: Add some crunch with toasted almonds or pecans, or a bit of freshness with diced scallions or cilantro.
🌟 Ingredient swaps: Substitute the ground beef with ground pork or lamb for a different flavor profile, or use different colored bell peppers for added visual appeal.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the broccoli is too soft, it was likely overcooked. Aim for a tender but still crisp texture. If the ground beef is too dry, it may have been overcooked or drained of too much fat.
Ingredient replacements: Always choose replacements that are as close as possible to the original ingredient in terms of flavor and texture to maintain the dish’s integrity.
Over/undercooking signs: Ground beef should be fully browned and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Broccoli is done when it’s tender but still crisp, usually after 3-5 minutes of cooking, depending on the heat and method.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen, adding more teriyaki sauce if needed.
Is it gluten-free? Depending on the teriyaki sauce used, this dish may or may not be gluten-free. Choose a gluten-free teriyaki sauce to make it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, the recipe can be easily doubled or tripled for larger groups. Just ensure your pan is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the One-Pan Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Dinner is a versatile, easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and impressive presentation, it’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spices to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking, and enjoy the delightful journey of culinary exploration!

Easy Teriyaki Ground Beef Broccoli Dinner