These Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls are a tasty and easy meal to whip up! Featuring juicy ground beef stir-fried with sweet teriyaki sauce, they’re served over fluffy rice.
It’s a hit at my house because everyone loves piling on their favorite toppings. Plus, it’s quick to make, so I can spend more time enjoying dinner instead of cooking! 🍚🍖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star protein of the dish. I like to use lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you want a lighter meal, ground turkey or chicken works nicely too!
Jasmine Rice: Jasmine rice adds a lovely aroma and texture. You can swap it for basmati rice or even brown rice for a whole grain option if you prefer more fiber.
Red Bell Pepper: This colorful veggie adds crunch and sweetness. Feel free to use any color bell pepper, or even snap peas or broccoli for variety!
Teriyaki Sauce: This sauce brings sweet and savory flavors. If you don’t have it, mix soy sauce with a bit of honey or brown sugar for a quick substitute.
Sesame Oil: It provides a lovely nutty flavor. For a lighter option, you could use vegetable oil, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor.
How Can I Keep My Ground Beef Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking ground beef perfectly can make a big difference in your dish. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil before the beef. This helps to brown the meat quickly.
- Break the beef apart while cooking – this ensures even browning and prevents it from steaming.
- Don’t rush! Allow the beef to cook without stirring too much, giving it about 5-7 minutes to develop that nice brown color.
How to Make Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup matchstick carrots
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Grab a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the skillet to prevent sticking. Once hot, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Season with a little salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is nicely browned, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Make sure it’s cooked all the way through!
2. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Once the beef is cooked, it’s time to add some flavors! Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger (if you’re using it) into the skillet. Cook this for about a minute until it smells amazing.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
Now, add the diced red bell pepper and matchstick carrots to your skillet. Sauté these colorful veggies for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still have some crunch. This step adds a lot of flavor and nutrition!
4. Mix in the Sauces:
Pour in the soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything together until well combined. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes so all the flavors blend and the mixture is heated through.
5. Serve and Garnish:
To serve, spoon the delicious beef and veggie mixture over bowls filled with the cooked jasmine rice. Don’t forget to garnish each bowl with some sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a nice touch!
6. Enjoy Your Meal!
Dig into your Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite. Perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe. Just be aware that these alternatives may be leaner, which means they might require a little extra olive oil to prevent drying out during cooking. Adjust the seasoning slightly if needed!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce and ensuring your teriyaki sauce is gluten-free. Most supermarket brands offer a gluten-free option!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time! It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving over freshly cooked rice. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative with your vegetables! Broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini would all make excellent additions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything remains tender but not overcooked.
