How to Make the Best Ground Beef Teriyaki Bowl in 20 Minutes

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal, a Ground Beef Teriyaki Bowl is the perfect choice. This dish combines savory ground beef, a rich homemade teriyaki sauce, and fresh vegetables, all served over fluffy rice. The best part? You can whip it up in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a game-changer. Follow along for step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations to make this dish your own.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Teriyaki Bowl Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or swap out the protein to suit your taste.
• Delicious: The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce takes this dish to the next level.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Teriyaki Bowl

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Ground Beef:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (lean or regular)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil)

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey for a natural sweetener)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Bowl:

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

How to Make a Ground Beef Teriyaki Bowl in 20 Minutes

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Start by cooking your rice according to package instructions. For a quicker option, use pre-cooked rice or microwaveable rice packets. Keep the rice warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the sesame oil.
2. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is softened.

Step 3: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, water, and grated ginger (if using).
2. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the cooked ground beef.
3. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens and coats the beef evenly.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

1. Divide the cooked rice into serving bowls.
2. Top each bowl with the teriyaki ground beef mixture.
3. Add steamed broccoli and shredded carrots on the side.
4. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a finishing touch.

Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef Teriyaki Bowl

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and vegetables enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick.
• Save Time: Use frozen pre-chopped vegetables or microwaveable rice to cut down on prep time.

Variations of Ground Beef Teriyaki Bowl

This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas to switch things up:

FAQs

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! The ground beef teriyaki mixture can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Can I Freeze Ground Beef Teriyaki?

Absolutely. Allow the cooked beef mixture to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

What Can I Serve with a Ground Beef Teriyaki Bowl?

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side of miso soup, a simple cucumber salad, or crispy spring rolls for a more elaborate spread.

Is This Recipe Kid-Friendly?

Yes! The sweet and savory flavors of the teriyaki sauce are usually a hit with kids. You can omit the ginger or spicy elements to make it more appealing to younger palates.

Conclusion

Making a Ground Beef Teriyaki Bowl at home is not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying. With its rich flavors, customizable ingredients, and minimal prep time, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers on taste and convenience.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and try this recipe today. Your taste buds will thank you!

By following this guide, you’ll have a delicious Ground Beef Teriyaki Bowl ready in just 20 minutes. Don’t forget to share your creations and let us know how you customized your bowl in the comments below!