These Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls are a fun and tasty meal option! Juicy beef cooked with sweet teriyaki sauce served over a bed of fluffy rice makes every bite delicious.
Making these is easy and quick, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. I love topping mine with some green onions—what about you? It adds a nice color and flavor! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, try using crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
Jasmine Rice: Jasmine rice gives a lovely aroma and slightly sticky texture. If you don’t have it, you can use basmati rice or even brown rice for a healthier option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly for brown rice.
Red Bell Pepper: I love the sweet crunch of red bell pepper, but you can use any color of bell pepper or even zucchini for a different flavor and texture. Carrots can also be substituted with shredded cabbage for variety!
Soy Sauce: This is essential for that umami flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, go for a low-sodium soy sauce. For a gluten-free version, choose tamari or coconut aminos.
Ginger: Fresh ginger brings warmth to the bowl. If you’re out of fresh ginger, ground ginger works too, just reduce the amount as it’s more concentrated. I often add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a subtle kick!
How Do I Cook the Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef can be tricky if you want it juicy but not greasy. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use a good quality skillet and let it heat up before adding the sesame oil.
- Break the beef into smaller pieces while cooking; this helps it cook evenly and prevents clumping.
- Cook until just browned, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcook as it can turn dry. If there’s excess grease, drain it before adding other ingredients.
This way, you’ll keep your beef flavorful and tender, making your teriyaki bowls even more enjoyable!
How to Make Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 4 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp ginger, minced (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that comes together fast, perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Let it brown for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
When the beef is nicely browned, add in the minced garlic and ginger. Cook these for an additional 1-2 minutes until you can smell their delicious fragrance. This will really enhance the flavor of your dish!
3. Add the Vegetables:
Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper, shredded carrots, and the white parts of the green onions. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables start to get tender. You’ll love the colorful mix!
4. Combine & Simmer:
Now it’s time to add in the soy sauce and teriyaki sauce. Pour both sauces over the beef and veggies, stirring everything well to combine. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
5. Serve It Up:
To serve, take a bowl and scoop in some cooked jasmine rice. On top of the rice, add a generous portion of the ground beef and vegetable mixture. Garnish each bowl with the green parts of the green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds on top if you’d like!
6. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your hot and hearty Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls! They’re not just flavorful, but also easy to make. Perfect for a cozy meal at home!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
Absolutely! If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. Just be aware that leaner meats may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to avoid drying them out.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute for soy sauce. You can also use coconut aminos as a soy sauce alternative; it’s slightly sweeter and lower in sodium, but works well in this recipe!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Jasmine Rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used in place of jasmine rice! Just note that brown rice takes longer to cook, so check the package directions for cooking times and make sure it’s fully cooked before assembling your bowls.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of soy sauce if needed to refresh the flavor!
