Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli

Name: Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 tablespoon minced ginger; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Highlighted under: Culture Inspired Recipes

I love making Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli because it's a quick yet satisfying meal packed with flavor. The tender beef pairs perfectly with crisp broccoli, all enveloped in a luscious teriyaki sauce that is both savory and a touch sweet. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick stir-fry technique, I can whip this dish up in under 30 minutes on a busy weeknight. It’s become a family favorite, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:02:28.393Z

When I first tried making Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli at home, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it could be. I experimented with the teriyaki sauce by adding a splash of sesame oil and a hint of ginger, which elevated the flavors significantly. This dish has such a beautiful balance of savory and sweet that it instantly transports me to my favorite sushi restaurant.

One of the best tips I've learned is to cook the beef quickly over high heat for that perfect sear, ensuring it stays tender while the broccoli remains vibrant and crisp. Using fresh ingredients makes all the difference, and I always make extra to enjoy for lunch the next day!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bold teriyaki sauce bursting with flavor
Crispy broccoli that adds perfect texture
Quick preparation for busy weeknights

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of beef in this recipe greatly influences the dish's overall flavor and tenderness. Beef sirloin is an excellent option due to its lean yet flavorful profile. It cooks quickly, making it perfect for weeknight meals. If you're looking for a leaner cut, flank steak is another good alternative; just ensure to slice it against the grain for maximum softness.

Broccoli florets not only provide crunch but also nutritional benefits, including vitamin C and fiber. When selecting broccoli, look for vibrant green florets without yellowing, indicating freshness. If broccoli isn’t available, or you want to vary the vegetables, consider using snap peas or bell peppers—both of which pair beautifully with the teriyaki sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying requires high heat to achieve that characteristic sear and quick cooking. Preheat your skillet before adding oil; the oil should shimmer, indicating it's hot enough for the beef. Adding the beef in batches, if necessary, prevents overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of searing. Cook until the meat is browned but not overdone to retain a tender bite.

Once the broccoli is added to the skillet, maintain a rapid stir-fry technique. You want the broccoli to cook through but remain bright and crisp—usually about 2-3 minutes. If the pan starts to get too hot, you can add a tablespoon of water to create steam while maintaining a high heat. This will help preserve the beautiful color while cooking the broccoli perfectly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

For the Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli

1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious meal:

Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.

Cook the Beef

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the sliced beef and cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.

Combine and Cook

Return the beef to the skillet with broccoli and pour in the teriyaki sauce. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until thickened.

Serve

Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add sliced bell peppers or snap peas to the stir-fry.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The teriyaki sauce can continue to develop its flavors, making reheated portions even more delicious. When you're ready to eat, reheat the dish on medium heat in a skillet for a few minutes, adding a splash of water or additional soy sauce to prevent drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the beef and broccoli (without the sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Stir-fry quickly on high heat, adding fresh teriyaki sauce to bring back that glossy finish.

Serving Suggestions

Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli is delightful served over a bed of fluffy white rice or nutty brown rice, absorbing all the savory sauce. For a lighter option, try serving it over zoodles (zucchini noodles) or cauliflower rice, which complements the dish’s flavors while reducing carbs.

Garnishing your dish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions adds a final touch of flavor and visual appeal. You could also include a side of pickled ginger, as it provides a delightful contrast to the rich teriyaki sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs or breasts work well and can be cooked the same way.

→ What if I don't have cornstarch?

You can substitute with all-purpose flour, but the sauce may be less glossy.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce in advance, then stir-fry just before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.