These Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls are a tasty mix of sweet and savory flavors! Juicy ground beef is cooked in a yummy teriyaki sauce and served over fluffy rice, making it a quick meal you’ll love.
They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying. I always top mine with fresh veggies and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a little crunch. It’s like a flavor party in a bowl! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of your dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken works great as a substitute. For a vegetarian version, consider using crumbled tofu or tempeh!
Rice: Jasmine rice gives a lovely fragrance but you can easily swap in white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a fun twist. Brown rice will add more nutrients and a nuttier flavor!
Teriyaki Sauce: You can use store-bought teriyaki sauce for convenience. If you want to customize it, mix soy sauce, sugar, and a splash of sesame oil. For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free teriyaki sauce or use tamari.
Vegetables: Red bell pepper and carrots add color and crunch. Feel free to use other veggies like snap peas, broccoli, or zucchini depending on your preference or availability. Always great to use what you have!
How Do You Ensure Your Ground Beef Stays Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to cooking ground beef perfectly is not overcooking it. Start by heating your skillet, then add the minced garlic to flavor the oil before introducing the beef. Here’s how to get it right:
- Cook the beef on medium heat to keep it juicy.
- Break it into small pieces as it cooks for even browning.
- Season it with salt and pepper while cooking to enhance the flavor.
- Check for doneness after 5-7 minutes; it should be brown with no pink inside.
How to Make Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or white rice
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll spend about 25 minutes from start to finish making these tasty Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. The aroma will get you excited about cooking!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to your taste while it’s cooking.
3. Add Vegetables and Teriyaki Sauce:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the diced red bell pepper, julienned carrots, and the teriyaki sauce. Cook everything together for an additional 3-4 minutes. This will help the vegetables become tender and soak up the delicious flavors of the teriyaki sauce.
4. Prepare the Rice Bowls:
Grab two bowls and start by placing a generous portion of the cooked rice at the bottom of each bowl. This will serve as a nice base for all the tasty toppings!
5. Top with Beef and Vegetables:
Now, take the beef and vegetable teriyaki mixture from the skillet and spoon it over the rice in each bowl. Make sure to get plenty of those colorful veggies and flavorful beef!
6. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, garnish your bowls with the chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a little crunch. Serve your delicious Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls warm, and enjoy every bite!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a healthier or vegetarian option. If using turkey or chicken, you may want to add a bit more seasoning since they are milder in flavor compared to beef.
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with your vegetables. Broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini would all work wonderfully in this dish. Just chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly along with the other ingredients.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the beef and vegetable mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Make the Rice Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can cook the rice a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist before serving with the teriyaki beef mixture.
