Go Back

Ground Beef Teriyaki Meal Prep - Easy, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Bowls

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds (680 g) ground beef (90/10 or 85/15)
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (avocado or canola)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger in a pinch)
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 tablespoon mirin (optional, for extra depth)
  • 1/2 cup water or low-sodium beef broth
  • 1–1.5 tablespoons cornstarch (to thicken)
  • 1–2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1–2 teaspoons chili-garlic sauce or red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 4 cups cooked rice (jasmine, brown, or cauliflower rice)
  • 3–4 cups veggies: broccoli florets, snap peas, carrots, or bell peppers
  • 2–3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Cook your base: Make your rice according to package directions. Fluff and set aside. Steam or sauté your chosen veggies until crisp-tender. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Whisk the teriyaki sauce: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, mirin (if using), water or broth, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Add chili-garlic sauce if you like a kick. Stir until smooth and no cornstarch lumps remain.
  3. Brown the beef: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula. Let it sit for 1–2 minutes to brown, then continue cooking until no pink remains and edges are caramelized. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Sauté aromatics: Push the beef to the sides. Add onion to the center and cook 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and ginger for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  5. Add and thicken the sauce: Lower heat to medium. Give the sauce a quick stir and pour it over the beef. Stir frequently as it bubbles; it should thicken in 1–2 minutes and coat the meat. If it’s too thick, splash in water; if too thin, simmer another minute.
  6. Taste and adjust: Add black pepper and, if needed, a pinch of sugar or a splash of vinegar. You’re aiming for a balanced sweet-salty tang with a glossy finish.
  7. Assemble bowls: Divide rice among 4–5 meal prep containers. Top with teriyaki beef and veggies. Finish with green onions and sesame seeds.
  8. Cool before sealing: Let containers cool uncovered for 15–20 minutes to prevent condensation before closing and refrigerating.