These Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls are a tasty mix of beef, veggies, and sweet teriyaki sauce served over fluffy rice. It’s a quick and filling meal perfect for busy days!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a bowl of yummy goodness? I enjoy making extra so I can have leftovers for lunch. Plus, the colors from the veggies make it look so inviting! 🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish, providing flavor and protein. I like using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of fat and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work as well, just adjust cooking times.
Rice: White rice is classic here, but jasmine rice adds a lovely aroma. If you prefer a healthier option, brown rice is great too, though it will require more cooking time. Quinoa could also work for a different texture and protein boost!
Bell Pepper: Red bell pepper adds sweetness and color. You can substitute with yellow or orange bell peppers if you prefer those flavors, or even use frozen mixed bell peppers when fresh ones aren’t available.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce is used for saltiness and depth. Low-sodium soy sauce is a great alternative if you’re watching your salt intake. For a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Cooked Ground Beef?
Cooking ground beef properly ensures a delicious base for your teriyaki dish. Here are some steps to follow:
- Use medium-high heat and let the skillet get hot. This helps to sear the meat, keeping it flavorful.
- Break up the meat with a spatula while cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents clumps.
- Cook until just browned—about 5-7 minutes should do it. Overcooking can dry it out.
- If there’s excess fat, drain it to keep your dish from becoming greasy. Just tilt the pan and use a spoon or just pat it with paper towels.
How to Make Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or jasmine rice)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For The Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and about 15-20 minutes of cooking time. So, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Begin by cooking the white rice according to the package instructions. Make sure it’s fluffy and ready when you need it. Once cooked, set it aside and keep it warm.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If you see excess fat, drain it from the pan.
3. Add Vegetables:
Next, toss in the diced red bell pepper and shredded carrots into the skillet. Stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender and bright in color.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour this flavorful mixture over the ground beef and vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to combine all the delicious flavors.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Allow everything to cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken up nicely and coat the beef and vegetables.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Now it’s time to serve! Scoop the ground beef mixture over bowls of the cooked rice. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
7. Enjoy!
Dig into your delightful Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls! A quick and yummy meal for everyone!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, especially for chicken and turkey, to ensure it’s fully cooked through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Cool the leftovers to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
What Vegetables Can I Add or Substitute?
Feel free to get creative! Broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy would all work nicely in this dish. Add them in along with the bell pepper and carrots, cooking until they’re just tender. Just adjust the cooking time based on the veggies you choose!
