These Easy Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls are quick and tasty! Tender beef cooked in a sweet teriyaki sauce over a warm bed of rice makes dinner a breeze.
Who doesn’t love a delicious meal that comes together in no time? I often whip these up on busy nights, and trust me, they disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you prefer a leaner meat, ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute that works well with the flavors.
Rice: While jasmine or basmati rice are fantastic choices, any cooked rice will work. Brown rice or quinoa can add more fiber and nutrients. Just remember to adjust cooking times if using different types!
Fresh Vegetables: Shredded carrots and red bell pepper add color and crunch. If you don’t have them, feel free to use frozen mixed vegetables or any other veggies you love. Broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini are all good options!
Sauces: Soy sauce is key for flavor. You can use tamari for a gluten-free option. Alternatively, coconut aminos is a great soy sauce substitute if you’re avoiding soy altogether.
How Do You Ensure the Perfectly Cooked Beef?
Cooking the ground beef just right is essential for a flavorful dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a large skillet to allow even cooking. Heat the oil before adding the beef.
- Break the beef into small pieces immediately. This helps it brown nicely and cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you have a lot of beef, consider cooking it in batches.
- Use a spatula to stir frequently, making sure it cooks through without burning. Aim for a nice brown color!
Keeping an eye on the cooking process ensures you prevent excessive grease and maintain that delicious texture!
Easy Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati recommended)
- 1 cup shredded carrots (or matchstick style)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 3 green onions, sliced (separate white and green parts)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- Sesame seeds (white and black) for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for cooking (vegetable or canola)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and easy dinner option. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by cooking the white rice according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, set it aside. You can use a rice cooker, stovetop, or even pre-cooked rice to save time.
2. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. This will create a delicious teriyaki sauce that adds flavor to your dish. Set it aside for later!
3. Sauté Aromatics:
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a splash of cooking oil. Once hot, add the white parts of the green onions, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Sauté them for about 1 minute until they’re fragrant and flavorful.
4. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and fully cooked. If there’s excess fat, you can drain it at this point.
5. Add the Vegetables:
Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper and shredded carrots. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables have softened a bit but are still crisp and vibrant.
6. Mix in the Teriyaki Sauce:
Pour the teriyaki sauce over the beef and vegetables in the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes. If you like your sauce a bit thicker, add the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
7. Final Taste and Serve:
Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper if needed. To serve, spoon the cooked rice into bowls, then top it off with the teriyaki beef and veggie mixture. Garnish with the green parts of the sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
8. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your Easy Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls! It’s a lovely meal that’s both filling and flavorful.
Can I Use Leaner Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Can I Make the Teriyaki Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it in the recipe!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
Definitely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute and use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a vegan-friendly version. It will still be delicious and full of flavor!
