I love meals that give me both flavor and convenience, but what makes this one stand out is how satisfying it is without needing anything complicated. Everything cooks in one pan, the veggies stay bright, and the rice absorbs all the delicious teriyaki juices. It’s the kind of comfort food that warms you from the inside out, especially after a long day. If you love fast, flavorful meals that don’t feel rushed, this Teriyaki Ground Beef Rice Bowl is one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again. It’s sweet, savory, comforting, and packed with simple ingredients that come together beautifully. 

I have made this recipe so many times for quick lunches or weeknight dinners. I use fresh ginger, plenty of garlic, and good soy sauce because those ingredients really wake up the dish. Always make enough sauce—it’s the best part and your rice will thank you for it.

You can serve this bowl as is, super warm and saucy, or pair it with some fresh cucumber slices for crunch, also with a fried egg on top if you want extra richness.

Its Perfect For:

• Quick weeknight dinners that need to be ready fast.
• Meal prep for work because the flavors stay strong.
• Kids who love sweet-and-savory meals.
• Those days when you want comfort food with simple ingredients.
• Anyone craving an Asian-inspired bowl without takeout.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or any neutral oil)
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
• 3 cups cooked white rice
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• Sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• A large non-stick skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Small mixing bowl for the sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and chopping board for veggies
• Rice cooker or pot for the rice

How to Make Teriyaki Ground Beef Rice Bowl

Step 1

Cook the aromatics: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened and slightly translucent. Add the garlic and ginger, stirring frequently so they don’t burn, and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2

Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook for 5–7 minutes until it is no longer pink. Let it cook undisturbed for a minute or two to get some lightly browned edges—that will add deeper flavor to your bowl. Drain excess fat if you prefer a lighter dish.

Step 3

Make the teriyaki sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, water, and black pepper. Stir well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the mixture looks smooth. This will help ensure a glossy, thick sauce that coats the beef perfectly.

Step 4

Combine beef and sauce: Pour the teriyaki sauce into the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce begin to thicken and become shiny. If you want it thicker, let it cook an extra minute; if thinner, add a splash of water.

Step 5

Add vegetables: Stir in the shredded carrots and steamed broccoli. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes. This warms the vegetables without overcooking them, keeping their crunch and color.

Step 6

Assemble the bowls: Scoop warm cooked rice into bowls. Add a generous portion of the teriyaki ground beef mixture on top. Drizzle any extra sauce from the skillet over the bowl for added flavor. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if you like a finishing touch.

Tips for Making the Best Teriyaki Ground Beef Rice Bowl

• Make extra sauce. The rice absorbs it quickly, so a little more always keeps the bowl juicy.
  This also makes leftovers taste much better the next day.
• Brown the beef properly. Let it sit for a minute without stirring so it forms lightly crisp edges.
  Those browned bits add deep, rich flavor to the dish.
• Don’t skip the garlic and ginger. They bring the classic teriyaki taste and make the sauce feel fresh. Fresh ginger always beats powdered for this recipe.
• Add veggies at the end. You want them warm but still slightly crisp, not overcooked.
  This keeps the color bright and the bowl more exciting to eat.
• Taste and adjust sweetness. Different soy sauces vary, so balance the flavors to your liking.
  If it’s too salty, add a little more honey or water.
• Use day-old rice if possible. It holds its shape better and doesn’t turn mushy.
  Warm it before serving so it becomes fluffy again.
• Let the sauce simmer long enough. The cornstarch needs a minute to thicken fully.
  A glossy finish means it’s done right.

Optional Ingredients

• Toasted sesame seeds
• Sliced jalapeños
• Thinly sliced cabbage
• A fried or soft-boiled egg
• Chili flakes for heat
• Pineapple bits for sweetness

How to Serve Teriyaki Ground Beef Rice Bowl

I like serving this Teriyaki Ground Beef Rice Bowl piping hot because the warmth helps the sauce stay glossy and smooth, letting it coat every grain of rice. When the beef is fresh from the pan, the teriyaki glaze still has that gentle stickiness that makes each bite feel comforting. I usually start by scooping fluffy rice into a wide bowl, then layering the teriyaki beef right over the top so the sauce slowly sinks down and flavor gets into everything.

I love adding colorful toppings to create contrast in flavor and texture. Fresh green onions, crunchy shredded carrots, sesame seeds, or lightly steamed broccoli make the bowl feel complete and balanced. If I want something crisp and refreshing, I’ll add thin cucumber slices or quick-pickled ginger, which cuts through the sweetness without being too strong. These little touches make the bowl look beautiful and taste more layered.

I also enjoy finishing the bowl with something rich to make it feel a little indulgent. A fried egg with a runny yolk melts into the beef and sauce, turning the whole dish extra creamy and satisfying. If I’m craving more depth, I add a drizzle of spicy mayo or a tiny splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. The beauty of this bowl is how flexible it is — you can keep it simple for busy days or dress it up when you want something special.

Is Teriyaki Ground Beef Rice Bowl Healthy?

This dish can be quite healthy because it includes protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates in one balanced bowl. You can control the sweetness of the sauce, add more veggies, or serve it with brown rice to make it even lighter.

However, some teriyaki sauces can be high in sodium and sugar. Making your own sauce at home helps you adjust everything to your preference, giving you a flavorful but balanced meal.

Variations and Substitutions

• Chicken Teriyaki Bowl
  Swap the ground beef with ground chicken for a leaner option. It cooks the same way but feels lighter. Add extra ginger to brighten the flavor.
• Turkey Teriyaki Bowl
  Ground turkey absorbs sauces beautifully. It’s mild, soft, and works great for meal prep. Reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent dryness.
• Tofu Teriyaki Bowl
  Press and crumble firm tofu for a beef-like texture. Pan-fry it until crisp before adding the sauce. This makes a delicious vegetarian version.
• Teriyaki Beef Noodles
  Replace rice with cooked noodles for a comforting twist. The noodles soak up the sticky sauce perfectly. Add bok choy for a full dinner bowl.
• Spicy Teriyaki Beef Bowl
  Add chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes. The sweetness of teriyaki pairs well with spice. Perfect for those who like bold flavors.
• Low-Sodium Version
  Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce sugar. Add more water to keep the sauce smooth. Still keeps that classic teriyaki taste.
• Veggie-Loaded Bowl
  Increase broccoli, carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. This makes the dish more colorful and nutritious. Great for a lighter but satisfying meal.
• Pineapple Teriyaki Bowl
  Add pineapple chunks for sweetness and acidity. They caramelize slightly with the beef. Perfect for a Hawaiian-inspired version.

How to Store & How to Reheat

Store your leftovers in an airtight container once the beef has cooled completely. It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the rice and the teriyaki beef separate if you want the texture to stay perfect.

To reheat, warm the beef in a skillet over low heat and add a splash of water to loosen the sauce. This brings back the glossy texture. Heat the rice in the microwave with a damp paper towel on top to keep it soft and fluffy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teriyaki Ground Beef Rice Bowl

Can I use frozen vegetables for this bowl?
Yes, frozen vegetables work really well because they cook quickly and stay colorful. Just thaw or lightly steam them before adding them to the skillet so they don’t water down the sauce. Frozen broccoli, peas, and carrots are great choices. They’re convenient and help make the bowl more nutritious without extra prep.

Can I make this recipe without sugar or make it less sweet?
You can absolutely reduce the sugar to fit your taste or dietary needs. Using honey or maple syrup will still give the sauce that classic sticky texture but with more natural sweetness. If you prefer a more savory bowl, replace part of the sugar with a splash of water or a bit of ginger. The flavor will stay balanced without being syrupy.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep because it reheats beautifully and doesn’t lose its flavor. I recommend storing the beef and rice in separate containers so the rice doesn’t get soggy. Add fresh toppings on the day you serve it for the best texture. It’s a great grab-and-go lunch for busy weekdays.

What type of rice works best for this bowl?
White rice is the classic choice because it soaks up the teriyaki sauce so well, but jasmine or basmati rice also work great. If you want something healthier, brown rice adds a nice nutty flavor and more fiber. You can even use cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Choose whichever fits your preference or dietary goals.

Teriyaki Ground Beef Rice Bowl Recipe

Recipe by Maria MeyerCourse: Main CourseCuisine: Asian-InspiredDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Learn how to make a delicious Teriyaki Ground Beef Rice Bowl with a sweet and savory sauce, fresh vegetables, and fluffy rice. Perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or family-friendly meals. Easy, flavorful, and customizable!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or any neutral oil)

• 1/3 cup soy sauce

• 3 tablespoons brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1/4 cup water

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 cup shredded carrots

• 1 cup steamed broccoli florets

• 3 cups cooked white rice

• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

• Sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)

Directions

• Cook the aromatics: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened and slightly translucent. Add the garlic and ginger, stirring frequently so they don’t burn, and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
• Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook for 5–7 minutes until it is no longer pink. Let it cook undisturbed for a minute or two to get some lightly browned edges—that will add deeper flavor to your bowl. Drain excess fat if you prefer a lighter dish.
• Make the teriyaki sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, water, and black pepper. Stir well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the mixture looks smooth. This will help ensure a glossy, thick sauce that coats the beef perfectly.
• Combine beef and sauce: Pour the teriyaki sauce into the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce begin to thicken and become shiny. If you want it thicker, let it cook an extra minute; if thinner, add a splash of water.
• Add vegetables: Stir in the shredded carrots and steamed broccoli. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes. This warms the vegetables without overcooking them, keeping their crunch and color.
• Assemble the bowls: Scoop warm cooked rice into bowls. Add a generous portion of the teriyaki ground beef mixture on top. Drizzle any extra sauce from the skillet over the bowl for added flavor. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if you like a finishing touch.