One-Pan Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Dinner

Introduction

This One-Pan Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Dinner is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and uses everyday ingredients that you likely have in your pantry. The best part? It all comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The combination of savory ground beef, tender broccoli, and sweet teriyaki sauce is a match made in heaven. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors in this dish is perfect, with the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce complementing the savory ground beef and broccoli.
• The ingredients are easily accessible and likely already stocked in your pantry, making it a great option for a last-minute dinner.
• The ease of preparation is unparalleled – simply cook the ground beef, add the broccoli and teriyaki sauce, and serve. It’s a great option for busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add the broccoli to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and garlic. Pour the sauce over the ground beef and broccoli, and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and the broccoli is tender.
4. Step 4: Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot over rice or noodles, and enjoy!

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overcook the broccoli, as it can become mushy and unappetizing. Aim for a tender but still crisp texture.
• If using frozen broccoli, thaw it first and squeeze out as much water as possible before adding it to the skillet.
• For an extra burst of flavor, add some sliced bell peppers or carrots to the skillet with the broccoli.

Heat Control

When cooking the ground beef, make sure to break it up with a spoon as it cooks to prevent it from forming clumps. Also, keep an eye on the heat and adjust it as needed to prevent the sauce from burning or the broccoli from overcooking. The ideal temperature for cooking the ground beef is medium-high heat, while the broccoli and sauce can be cooked at medium heat.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the tender but still crisp broccoli. To achieve this texture, make sure to not overcook the broccoli and to add it to the skillet at the right time. You can also add some crunchy toppings such as chopped nuts or seeds to give it an extra crunch.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a wok or large skillet with a non-stick surface to prevent the ground beef and broccoli from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
• Prepare all the ingredients before starting to cook, including chopping the broccoli and grating the ginger, to make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make the dish your own. Try adding some diced onions or mushrooms to the skillet with the ground beef for added flavor.

Storage Tips

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot and steaming.
• Freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot and steaming.
• Use airtight containers or glass jars to store the teriyaki sauce and other ingredients to keep them fresh for a longer period.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This dish is perfect for meal prep or as a gift for a friend or family member. Consider packaging it in a microwave-safe container or a thermally insulated bag to keep it hot and fresh. You can also add some garnishes such as chopped green onions or sesame seeds to make it more visually appealing.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding some diced bell peppers or carrots to the skillet with the broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.
• Use different types of protein such as chicken or tofu for a variation on the dish.
• Experiment with different seasonings and spices such as soy sauce or sriracha to give the dish a unique flavor.

Troubleshooting

• If the ground beef is overcooking, try breaking it up into smaller pieces or cooking it for a shorter amount of time.
• If the broccoli is undercooking, try cooking it for a longer amount of time or adding more water to the skillet.
• If the sauce is too thick, try adding a little more water or broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, try cooking it for a longer amount of time to reduce it.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze individual portions of the dish for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot and steaming.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this dish is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce and teriyaki sauce.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and heat as needed to prevent the sauce from burning or the broccoli from overcooking.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Teriyaki Ground Beef and Broccoli Dinner is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. With its balance of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a staple in your household. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make the dish your own, and enjoy the process of cooking and sharing a meal with your loved ones.