Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Skillet Cooking · Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Quick Answer
This Ground Beef Teriyaki recipe combines savory beef, nutty sesame oil, and a sweet teriyaki sauce for a perfect meal prep option.
As the days grow crisper in New York City and the festive season approaches, I find myself gravitating towards cozy, comforting meals. During this time of year, where friends and family gather around tables, the importance of a delicious, satisfying dish can't be overstated. Today, I'm excited to share a recipe that not only boasts bold flavors but is also perfect for meal prep: Ground Beef Teriyaki. This dish encapsulates the essence of home-cooked goodness with a delightful twist, making it an excellent choice for your holiday gatherings or a busy week ahead.
A Perfect Meal Prep Recipe
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Ground Beef Teriyaki can be prepared in just under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Comfort: The combination of savory, sweet, and nutty flavors creates a dish that's both comforting and delicious.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Great for meal prepping, this recipe stores well and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or add in more vegetables for a wholesome boost.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is a crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering Ground Beef Teriyaki, you'll need:
- 1 pound ground beef (I prefer a blend that's 80% lean for rich flavor)
- ¼ cup soy sauce (use low-sodium if you prefer a less salty taste)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for that nutty depth)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (freshly minced garlic brings a fragrant aroma)
- 1 inch ginger, grated (adds a lovely warmth)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped (for color and crunch)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon water
- Steamed rice or quinoa (for serving)
How to Make Ground Beef Teriyaki (Step-by-Step)
This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also infuses your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Follow these steps for a delightful meal.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sesame oil. Once shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté them for about 1-2 minutes until they're fragrant and golden, but be careful not to burn them-trust me, burnt garlic can ruin a dish!
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef to the skillet. With a wooden spoon, break it up while it cooks. You'll want to stir until it's no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. The savory scent of beef mingling with garlic and ginger will fill your kitchen, making it an inviting space to be.
Step 3: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water. As you see the sugar dissolve, you can almost taste that perfect balance of sweet and salty.
Step 4: Combine and Thicken
Once the beef is browned, pour in the teriyaki sauce. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. You'll notice the sauce thickening and clinging to the beef, creating a glossy finish. The nutty aroma will keep pulling you in for a taste!
Step 5: Serve it Up
Serve the Ground Beef Teriyaki over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa, topped with chopped green onions for that fresh crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Aromatics: Garlic and ginger can easily burn; ensure your heat isn't too high.
- Not Breaking Up the Beef: If you leave large chunks, your dish will have an uneven texture. Make sure to crumble the meat as it cooks.
- Skipping the Thickeners: Cornstarch is key for that luscious sauce. Don't omit it; otherwise, you'll have a watery dish.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For a bit of spice, throw in a dash of red pepper flakes while sautéing.
- If you prefer a veggie-packed version, add chopped bell peppers and broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking.
- This dish stores beautifully; make a double batch for easy meals throughout the week.
Variations
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Substitute honey or maple syrup for brown sugar for a different sweetness.
- Add vegetables like snow peas or carrots for added texture and flavor.
How to Serve
- Serve over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa.
- Top with chopped green onions for a fresh crunch.
- Add sesame seeds as a finishing touch for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on a stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
While testing this recipe, I realized how simple yet impactful the combination of fresh ingredients can be in crafting a dynamic dish. Each step magnifies the comforting warmth that comes from a homemade meal, perfect for holiday gatherings or those busy weekdays.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 25g protein · 30g carbs · 15g fat
Recipe by:
Quick Ground Beef Teriyaki
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sesame oil. Once shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden.
- Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water. Pour this mixture into the skillet once the beef is browned.
- Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Serve over steamed rice or quinoa, topped with chopped green onions.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use a different meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
For extra heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chilies when sautéing the garlic and ginger.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! This Ground Beef Teriyaki is great for meal prep. You can make a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for easy reheating later.
4. What can I serve with Ground Beef Teriyaki?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You can also serve it with sautéed or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
5. How long does the dish last in the refrigerator?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months.
