These Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls are a tasty meal packed with flavor! The tender beef is cooked in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy rice, and topped with fresh veggies.
They’re super quick to whip up, perfect for busy nights. I love how I can customize them with my favorite toppings. Who knew a bowl could be so satisfying? 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner or meatless option.
Jasmine Rice: This rice gives a nice fragrance and texture. If you don’t have it, you can use basmati or brown rice. Just be mindful that cooking times may differ, especially for brown rice.
Bell Pepper: I used a red bell pepper for sweetness. Feel free to swap it with a yellow or orange pepper for a different flavor, or use zucchini if you’re looking for a low-carb option!
Teriyaki Sauce: If you’re out of store-bought teriyaki sauce, a mix of soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar can work as a quick substitute. Just adjust to your taste!
How Do You Cook Ground Beef to Perfection?
Cooking ground beef properly will give you great flavor and texture. Start by heating the vegetable oil in your skillet. This helps prevent sticking and burning.
- Add minced garlic and ginger first. Sauté them briefly to bring out their flavors before adding the beef.
- When the beef goes in, break it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s completely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step! It really enhances the beef’s taste.
- If there’s too much fat, you can drain some off, but leaving a little can add richness to the dish.
By following these steps, you’ll be sure to have flavorful, tender beef as the base for your rice bowls!
How to Make Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or rice of your choice)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced or grated
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by placing a large skillet or frying pan on the stove. Pour in the vegetable oil and turn the heat to medium-high. Wait a minute until the oil is hot.
2. Sauté Garlic and Ginger:
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until you can smell the fragrant aroma.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Using a spatula, break the meat apart as it cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is browned and completely cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of extra fat, drain some of it out.
4. Add Vegetables:
Now, stir in the diced red bell pepper and the shredded carrots. Cook this mixture for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender and colorful.
5. Mix in Sauces:
Pour in the teriyaki sauce and the optional soy sauce (if you’re using it). Stir everything together well and let it simmer for about 2 minutes until it’s all heated through.
6. Season and Finish:
Check the flavor and add salt and pepper to taste. Then, pour in the sesame oil and mix it well into the beef and veggie mixture.
7. Serve the Rice Bowls:
To serve, scoop a generous helping of the cooked rice into a bowl. Top it with the flavorful beef teriyaki mixture.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish by sprinkling some chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for a nice crunch. Your Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls are ready to enjoy while warm!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the ground beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure your substitute is fully cooked through before adding the sauces!
How Can I Make This Recipe Lower in Carbs?
If you’re looking to reduce carbs, consider using cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice. Simply sauté grated cauliflower in a pan for about 5 minutes before serving it as the base for your teriyaki beef. It pairs well with the flavors and is a delicious low-carb option!
What Should I Do with Leftover Teriyaki Beef?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it again by reheating it in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist. It can also be served in wraps or salads for a different meal!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian or Vegan?
Definitely! You can use plant-based ground meat or tofu as a substitute for ground beef. Additionally, check that your teriyaki sauce is vegetarian or vegan-friendly, as some contain fish sauce. Serve it over rice or quinoa to keep it hearty and satisfying!
