Teriyaki Ground Beef is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a busy weeknight. Ground beef is cooked with aromatics and simmered in a sweet-savory teriyaki sauce that thickens beautifully. It’s versatile and can be served over rice, wrapped in tortillas, or used as a filling for lettuce wraps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy, fast, and packed with bold flavors. The combination of garlic, ginger, and teriyaki sauce creates a deliciously sticky, savory beef that pairs well with many sides. Whether you want a simple dinner over rice or a fun wrap, this dish is a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• Sesame oil
• Ground beef
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, minced
• Teriyaki sauce

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

1. Cook Aromatics and Beef: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 1 minute. Add ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until beef is no longer pink and onions are tender (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease.
2. Add Sauce and Simmer: Stir teriyaki sauce into the beef mixture. Bring to a low simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Serve: Serve hot over steamed rice, in tortillas, or wrapped in lettuce leaves. Garnish with your choice of toppings like sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped cilantro.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegetables: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat.
• Sauce Swap: Use homemade teriyaki sauce or a store-bought version you prefer.
• Protein Swap: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked beef in portions for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use other oils?

Yes, vegetable or canola oil works if you don’t have sesame oil.

How do I make teriyaki sauce?

Combine soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch slurry, then simmer until thickened.

Can I add vegetables to the skillet?

Yes, add them along with the onion or toward the end of cooking.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild by default but can be spiced up easily with chili sauce.

Can I use fresh ginger?

Yes, fresh ginger is preferred for best flavor.

What should I serve with teriyaki ground beef?

Steamed rice, noodles, or fresh lettuce leaves are excellent options.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce to make it gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, prepare and refrigerate; reheat before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

In an airtight container in the fridge.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for best quality.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Ground Beef is a simple, flavorful dish that comes together quickly and satisfies cravings for savory, sweet Asian-inspired flavors. Perfect for busy nights or meal prep, it’s versatile enough to serve in many ways and always delicious.

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