These Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls are a quick and tasty meal! Juicy ground beef is cooked in a sweet teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy rice, and topped with your favorite veggies.
Honestly, you can make this dish in no time, making it perfect for busy nights! I love adding extra broccoli—because who doesn’t want a pop of green in their bowl? 🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe uses ground beef for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken. If you’re vegetarian, consider crumbled tofu or tempeh for a similar texture.
Rice: White rice is the base of the dish, but you could use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative. Just make sure to follow cooking times based on the type of rice you choose!
Bell Pepper: Red bell pepper adds sweetness and color. You can substitute it with yellow or orange bell peppers, or even zucchini if desired. Each will bring a unique flavor.
Soy Sauce: Traditional soy sauce adds depth. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari sauce instead. For a low-sodium option, look for reduced-sodium soy sauce.
Sesame Oil: This oil provides a nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use olive oil, but it won’t give the same taste. A few drops of peanut oil can work, too!
How Do I Properly Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic requires some attention since it can burn quickly, leading to a bitter flavor. Here’s how to get it right:
- Use medium heat to give you better control when cooking.
- Add garlic to the oil only after it’s heated. Sauté for about 30 seconds or until you can smell its aroma but not longer.
- If you see the garlic starting to brown, reduce the heat immediately or remove the skillet from the heat for a moment.
Cooking garlic is about timing and smell—once you can smell it, you’re on the right track!
How to Make Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice Bowl:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 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 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, so you can enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls in around 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Cook it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, making sure not to let it burn!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir it around for about 5-7 minutes until it’s fully browned. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off so your bowls won’t be greasy.
3. Add Veggies:
Next, mix in the diced red bell pepper, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions (but save a bit of green onion for later!). Continue cooking everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become tender and bright.
4. Sauce It Up:
Now it’s time to make it tasty! Pour in the soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything well to blend the flavors. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, and then season it with salt and pepper to your liking.
5. Assemble Your Bowls:
To serve, scoop a generous portion of the cooked white rice into each bowl. Top it off with the ground beef mixture you just made, creating a lovely layer of flavor.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish by sprinkling sesame seeds on top and adding the reserved green onions for a fresh crunch. Serve your Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls hot and enjoy this tasty meal with family or friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in for ground beef. Just be aware that leaner meats may require a bit more moisture, so you might want to add a splash more soy sauce or teriyaki sauce to keep the dish flavorful and moist.
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, brown rice is a great substitute! It adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Just remember that brown rice usually takes longer to cook than white rice, so be sure to prepare it ahead of time or follow package instructions for cooking.
How to Store Leftover Teriyaki Rice Bowls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stove. You can add a splash of water or extra soy sauce to help rehydrate the rice as it heats up.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add in other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces and adjust the cooking time accordingly, so everything is tender and well-cooked.
