Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli

One-Pan Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli is the perfect fast and flavorful 30-minute weeknight dinner or freezer-friendly meal planning option. This dish brings together tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory teriyaki sauce that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just looking for a quick meal after a long day, this recipe stands out for its ease and incredible flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade teriyaki sauce adds a rich, savory taste without any complicated steps.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for serving over rice or noodles, making it adaptable to your preferences.
• Freezer-Friendly: Easily prepare ahead of time and freeze for later use—great for meal prep!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand can make preparing Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli even smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet or wok
• Gallon-sized freezer bag
• Small mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet or wok: Allows for even cooking and plenty of space to stir-fry ingredients effectively.
• Gallon-sized freezer bag: Perfect for marinating the beef easily without mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

For the Beef

• 1 1/2 lbs flank steak (thinly sliced – I buy mine pre-sliced to save time)
• 1/4 cup cornstarch

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup soy
• 1/3 cup water
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

For the Broccoli

• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 4 tablespoons vegetable oil (or canola oil)

How to Make Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Coat the Beef

1. Add the sliced steak and cornstarch to a gallon-sized freezer bag.
2. Shake the bag until all sides of the steak pieces are coated.
3. Seal the bag, removing any excess air.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, water, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, sesame seeds, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes until well combined.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the coated beef slices in batches; cook until browned on all sides (about 3–4 minutes).
3. Remove cooked beef from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Broccoli

1. In the same skillet, add another 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil if necessary.
2. Add broccoli florets; stir-fry for about 5 minutes until vibrant green and tender-crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked beef to the skillet with broccoli.
2. Pour in the teriyaki sauce; stir well to coat all ingredients evenly.
3. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Now you have a delicious One-Pan Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli ready to serve! Enjoy this quick weeknight meal that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!

How to Serve Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli

Serving Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli can elevate your dining experience, making it both enjoyable and visually appealing. Here are a few creative ways to serve this delicious dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds enhances the look and flavor.

Pair with Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice complements the savory teriyaki sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice provides nuttiness and extra fiber.

Utilize Lettuce Wraps

• Butter Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the beef and broccoli mix into butter lettuce leaves for a fun, handheld version.

Add an Egg

• Fried Egg Topping: A sunny-side-up egg on top adds richness and makes it even heartier.

Serve in Bowls

• Teriyaki Bowls: Create individual bowls with layers of rice, beef, broccoli, and sauce for easy serving.

How to Perfect Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli

Perfecting Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli is all about technique and flavor balance. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Thinly Sliced Meat: Thin slices of beef cook faster and absorb more flavor from the sauce.
• Marinate for More Flavor: Letting the meat sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes will deepen the taste.
• High Heat Cooking: Stir-fry on high heat to lock in juices and achieve that perfect sear.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always opt for fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor profile.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Keep broccoli crisp-tender for added texture in your dish.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce as you go; feel free to adjust sugar levels based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli

Complementing your Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Steamed Vegetable Medley: A mix of carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas adds color and nutrition.
2. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad with a light dressing balances the richness of the teriyaki sauce.
3. Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt offers a protein-packed snack or side.
4. Fried Rice: A classic choice, fried rice can incorporate leftover vegetables for added flavor.
5. Noodle Salad: Cold noodle salad dressed in soy sauce pairs well with the warm beef dish.
6. Miso Soup: This light soup can be a comforting starter that sets the tone for your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of the dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Marinating Long Enough: Skipping the marination or rushing it can lead to less flavorful beef. Allow at least 30 minutes for better absorption of flavors.
• Overcooking the Broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy. Aim for a vibrant green color and a tender-crisp texture by cooking just until bright.
• Using Low-Quality Soy Sauce: Poor-quality soy sauce can ruin the dish’s flavor. Opt for a good brand for richer taste.
• Skipping the Cornstarch Coating: Not coating the beef in cornstarch will result in a less desirable texture. This coating helps create a crispy exterior when cooked.
• Neglecting to Prep Ingredients First: Preparing ingredients after starting to cook can lead to overcooked meat. Always have everything ready before you start.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat on a baking sheet for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli?

Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli is a savory Asian-inspired dish featuring tender beef slices stir-fried with fresh broccoli in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Chicken works great as an alternative in this recipe, providing similar flavors while being lighter.

How do I customize my Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli?

You can add various vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrients. Adjust sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar as desired.

Is Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli healthy?

This dish is nutritious with lean protein from the beef (or chicken) and vitamins from the broccoli. You can adjust the sugar content for healthier options!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute to ensure it’s gluten-free while keeping the delicious flavors intact.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli is not only a quick weeknight meal but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on your preference. Try this delightful recipe tonight for a delicious dinner that’s sure to impress!

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