Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls are a quick and tasty meal! Juicy beef mixed with sweet teriyaki sauce served over fluffy rice makes this dish really satisfying.
It’s like a hug in a bowl! I love adding some veggies on top for color and crunch. You won’t believe how fast it comes together—perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option or ground turkey for a lighter taste. If you’re avoiding meat, try tempeh or mushrooms as a great substitute.
Rice: White rice is traditional here, but you could use brown rice or quinoa for a nutty flavor and added nutrition. Cauliflower rice is a low-carb alternative that works well too!
Bell Pepper: Red bell peppers are sweet and add beautiful color. You can use yellow or orange bell peppers if you prefer. For a different taste, consider green bell peppers or even snap peas.
Sesame Oil: This oil provides a distinct, nutty flavor that really enhances the dish. If you don’t have sesame oil, try using peanut oil or a bit of olive oil, but the taste won’t be quite the same.
Teriyaki Sauce: This gives that sweet and tangy flavor to the dish. If you’re out of teriyaki sauce, you can mix soy sauce with a little honey or brown sugar for a quick alternative.
How Do You Cook Ground Beef to Perfection?
Cooking ground beef right can make all the difference in your dish. Here’s a simple way to ensure it’s flavorful and tender:
- Heat both oils in the skillet to ensure even cooking. Don’t rush this step!
- Add the beef and break it apart with a spoon. Let it sit a bit before stirring to let it brown nicely.
- Keep an eye on the heat; medium-high is best, but if it starts to smoke, lower it slightly.
- Once browned, drain any excess fat. This helps keep the dish from being greasy.
- Season with salt and pepper before adding aromatics like garlic and ginger; this allows their flavors to meld.
Following these tips will help you cook ground beef that’s flavorful and balanced! Enjoy the process!
Delicious Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the ingredients, and it all comes together in a quick and tasty way.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oils:
Start by heating the sesame oil and vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This helps to get a good sear on the beef and flavors started in the pan.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the hot skillet. Use a spoon to break it into smaller pieces. Cook until the beef is browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This will give it nice flavor and texture.
3. Drain and Season:
If there’s any excess fat in the skillet, be sure to drain it out. Then, season the beef with salt and pepper to taste. This helps to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
4. Stir in Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic and ginger are fragrant. This will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma!
5. Add the Veggies:
Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper, julienned carrots, and sliced green onions. Cook everything for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still colorful and crunchy.
6. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and brown sugar. Pour this delightful mixture over the beef and vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to combine everything, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is nice and heated through.
7. Serve It Up:
Now for the best part! Spoon the teriyaki beef mixture over bowls of warm cooked white rice. This will be the base of your delicious meal.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top and add a few extra sliced green onions for a fresh, tasty finish. Enjoy your homemade ground beef teriyaki rice bowls!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as leaner meats cook faster, and tofu should be pre-pressed to remove excess moisture before cooking.
How Can I Adjust the Sauce for a Sweeter or Saltier Taste?
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, simply add an extra teaspoon of brown sugar. To enhance the saltiness, you can increase the amount of soy sauce but do this slowly to avoid overpowering the dish. Taste as you go and adjust based on your preference!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used! Just keep in mind that it has a longer cooking time. Make sure to cook the brown rice according to package instructions before assembling your bowls. The nutty flavor of brown rice pairs nicely with the teriyaki beef!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist. Enjoy your meal again without losing any flavor!
