These Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls are super tasty and easy to make! Juicy beef cooked with sweet teriyaki sauce sits on top of warm rice—yum!
They’re perfect for a quick dinner after a long day. I love adding some veggies to mine for extra color and crunch. It’s a bowl of happiness! 🍚🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef for this dish, as it keeps it healthier without sacrificing flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken work great as lean options, or you could even try ground tofu for a vegetarian version.
Teriyaki Sauce: This is the key to that sweet, tangy flavor. If you can’t find teriyaki sauce, a mix of soy sauce with honey or brown sugar can be a nice substitute. Just keep an eye on how sweet you make it, so it balances nicely.
Bell Pepper: I usually go for red bell peppers because of their sweetness, but you can swap them for green or yellow peppers for different taste profiles. If you’re trying to skip the peppers altogether, you could use snap peas or broccoli instead.
Rice: White rice is a crowd-pleaser, but I often switch it up with brown rice for extra fiber. Quinoa is also a tasty and nutritious option if you’re looking for something gluten-free!
How Can I Perfectly Cook the Ground Beef?
Cooking ground beef may seem straightforward, but getting it just right is crucial. Here’s how to make it flavorful and prevent it from drying out:
- Start by heating your skillet on medium-high heat before adding the vegetable oil. This helps to create a nice sear on the beef.
- As the beef cooks, break it apart with a spatula and stir occasionally to ensure it browns evenly. Aim for a rich, brown color all over.
- If you see excess fat, carefully drain it off while the beef is still in the pan; this helps keep the dish from being greasy.
Taking these steps will give you deliciously cooked ground beef that works perfectly in your teriyaki bowls!
How to Make Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Beef and Vegetables:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)
- For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
- To Serve:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time! It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned. Use a spatula to break it apart while cooking, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure it’s fully cooked and no longer pink.
2. Add Vegetables:
Once the beef is cooked through, you may want to drain any excess fat. Then, add the diced red bell pepper and shredded carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry these vegetables with the beef for about 2-3 minutes. You want them to start softening but still retain some crunch!
3. Stir in the Sauces:
Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and the sliced green onions. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally until everything is nicely mixed and heated through. Don’t forget to season with a bit of salt and pepper to taste!
4. Serve Over Rice:
To serve, spoon the flavorful beef and vegetable mixture over a bed of cooked white rice in bowls. This makes for a hearty and comforting meal!
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
Top your rice bowls with extra sliced green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds over them for a finishing touch. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls with family or friends!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! You can use brown rice if you prefer a whole grain option. Just keep in mind that brown rice usually takes longer to cook, so plan for that extra time. It’s best to pre-cook it according to package instructions before adding the beef mixture on top.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a healthier or plant-based alternative, ground turkey or chicken work great! You can also use textured vegetable protein (TVP) for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that if you’re using a leaner meat, you might want to add a little extra oil during cooking to keep it moist.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until hot. If the rice seems dry, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating.
Is There a Way to Add More Veggies?
Definitely! Feel free to throw in more vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or even spinach. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them with the bell pepper and carrots for a colorful, nutritious boost!
