These Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls are a tasty treat! Juicy beef, sweet teriyaki sauce, and fluffy rice come together for a delightful meal in no time.
Who doesn’t love a one-bowl wonder? I often whip these up on busy nights. It’s quick, filling, and everyone in the family digs in happily!
I love topping mine with green onions for a fresh kick. You can easily make it your own by adding your favorite veggies too—delicious and fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein for the dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work just as well. For vegetarian or vegan choices, try crumbled tofu or tempeh seasoned with similar flavors.
Rice: White rice gives a fluffy base, but you can swap it for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice if you want something healthier or gluten-free. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
Teriyaki Sauce: This sauce is key for flavor. If you don’t have it or want a less sweet option, try a mix of soy sauce and a hint of honey or maple syrup. You can also make your own with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a bit of sugar.
Vegetables: Bell peppers and carrots add great color and nutrition. Feel free to mix in your favorites, like broccoli, snap peas, or even zucchini depending on what you have on hand.
How Do I Cook the Rice Perfectly?
Cooking rice can sometimes be tricky, but following a few simple steps will guarantee great results. Rinsing the rice is essential to remove excess starch, making it less sticky.
- Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to wash off that extra starch.
- Use a medium saucepan and bring the rice and water to a boil before lowering the heat.
- Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, then let it sit covered for 5 minutes afterward. This resting time makes the rice fluffy!
Follow these steps, and you’ll have soft, perfectly cooked rice every time!
How to Make Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups water (for cooking rice)
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 bell pepper (red, diced)
- 1 carrot (shredded)
- 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes to prepare. This includes around 15 minutes to cook the rice and another 10 minutes to prepare the beef and vegetables. Simple and quick for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by rinsing the uncooked white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove extra starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is gone. Once done, remove it from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes to steam.
2. Prepare the Ground Beef:
While the rice is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and cooked through. This is where the delicious flavor starts!
3. Add the Vegetables:
Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep it light. Now, reduce the heat to medium and stir in the diced bell pepper and shredded carrot. Cook these for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender and colorful. It’s starting to smell amazing!
4. Mix in the Teriyaki Sauce:
Next, pour the teriyaki sauce into the skillet, stirring everything together. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the beef and veggies are nicely coated and heated through. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste—that little extra really makes a difference!
5. Serve Your Bowls:
Now it’s time to serve! Spoon the cooked rice into bowls, then top it generously with the ground beef teriyaki mixture. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that finishing touch.
6. Enjoy!
Your Ground Beef Teriyaki Rice Bowls are ready to be enjoyed! Dig in and savor the flavors!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, especially with leaner meats, so keep an eye on them to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, brown rice is a tasty and healthier alternative, but it requires a longer cooking time. Use a 2:1 ratio of water to rice and simmer for about 40-45 minutes. Make sure to check the package directions for exact cooking times as it can vary slightly by brand.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the beef and vegetable mixture separately from the rice. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove or microwave.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Consider adding minced garlic or ginger to the beef while cooking for an extra kick. You can also sprinkle some chili flakes if you like it spicy or try adding pineapple pieces for a sweet twist!
