If you’re looking for a tasty and easy dinner, this beef teriyaki recipe is the perfect choice. With tender beef, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness, this dish comes together in no time. It’s versatile, too—serve it over rice or with your favorite veggies for a complete meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or the whole family, this simple recipe is sure to satisfy!
Why We Love This Beef Teriyaki Recipe
Beef teriyaki is one of those dishes that’s simple, satisfying, and full of flavor—making it perfect for a busy weeknight or when you’re craving something comforting. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar, you can whip up a delicious, flavor-packed meal in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: This beef teriyaki recipe is incredibly versatile. You can serve it over steamed rice, stir-fry it with your favorite veggies, or even enjoy it on its own. It’s easy to adapt based on what you have in your kitchen.
- Perfectly Balanced: The sweet and savory combination of teriyaki sauce creates a rich, delicious flavor that’s not too overpowering. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or just love trying new dishes, this one is sure to impress.
- Tender Beef: The marinated beef absorbs all the savory goodness, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. You’ll love how juicy and flavorful each bite is.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a dish everyone can enjoy, making it ideal for busy families or dinner with friends. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce kids to new flavors in a fun and approachable way.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting in the kitchen, this beef teriyaki recipe will quickly become one of your go-to meals. It’s quick, delicious, and full of flavor—everything you want in a weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
Beef – Use thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin for tender and flavorful beef teriyaki.
Soy sauce – Gives the dish its deep savory flavor. Regular soy sauce works best.
Brown sugar – Adds sweetness and balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.
Sesame oil – Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the beef teriyaki sauce.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic gives a bold, savory flavor.
Ginger – Fresh grated ginger adds a warm, zesty taste.
Rice vinegar – This adds a slight tang to balance the sweet and savory.
Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce for that classic glossy finish.
Water – Mixed with cornstarch to help thicken the teriyaki sauce.
Sesame seeds – Optional garnish for extra flavor and crunch.
Scallions – Sliced green onions for a fresh finishing touch.
Instructions
Making beef teriyaki is simple and quick, and the result is a flavorful dish that will impress your family or guests. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious meal in no time:
Slice the Beef
Cut flank steak or sirloin into thin strips against the grain so it stays tender.
Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar. Set aside.
Thicken the Sauce
Stir cornstarch with water in a small bowl. Add to the sauce and mix well.
Cook the Beef
Heat sesame oil in a pan. Add beef and cook for 2–3 minutes until browned.
Add the Sauce
Pour the sauce over the beef. Stir and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken.
Finish and Serve
Remove from heat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions before serving.
Pro Tips
To make sure your beef teriyaki turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips and tricks to elevate the dish:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will give your teriyaki sauce a vibrant, aromatic flavor. Don’t substitute with powdered versions, as they won’t have the same depth.
Thinly Slice the Beef: For the most tender bite, slice your beef thinly against the grain. This ensures it cooks quickly and absorbs all the flavors of the teriyaki sauce.
Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have extra time, marinating the beef in a little bit of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger before cooking will deepen the flavor even more. Just make sure not to marinate for too long, as the beef can become too salty.
Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply let it simmer a bit longer after adding the cornstarch slurry. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
Cook in Batches: To get the best sear on the beef, avoid overcrowding the pan. If necessary, cook the beef in batches to ensure each piece gets that crispy, flavorful edge.
Add Veggies for Extra Color: Toss in some bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas with the beef to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious. The vegetables will soak up the sauce and add a lovely crunch.
Serve with Rice: Pair this beef teriyaki with steamed white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The rice helps balance out the rich, savory sauce.
Variations
One of the best things about this beef teriyaki recipe is how adaptable it is. You can easily switch up ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some creative variations you can try:
Beef Teriyaki with Vegetables: Add a colorful mix of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for a more nutritious meal. Simply stir-fry the veggies with the beef, allowing them to soak up the teriyaki sauce for extra flavor.
Chicken Teriyaki: If you’re not a fan of beef, try swapping in chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken thighs, in particular, will add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish. Follow the same cooking method for the best results.
Teriyaki Beef Stir-Fry: Turn this recipe into a stir-fry by tossing in some noodles, such as soba or udon, along with the beef and sauce. This makes for a hearty, all-in-one meal that’s both filling and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
Beef teriyaki is a delicious, versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving ideas to make your meal even more satisfying:
Steamed Rice: This classic pairing is always a winner. Serve your beef teriyaki over a bed of fluffy steamed white rice or brown rice. The rice soaks up the flavorful sauce, balancing out the richness of the beef.
Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice makes a perfect base. It’s light, healthy, and still provides a great texture to complement the savory beef.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: If you’re looking to add more veggies to the meal, stir-fry some bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. The crisp vegetables add a fresh contrast to the tender beef and sweet sauce.
Noodles: Swap out rice for soba noodles or udon for a fun twist. Noodles are great at soaking up the teriyaki sauce and will give the dish a more filling, noodle-bowl vibe.
FAQs
How do I thicken the teriyaki sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, it’s easy to adjust the consistency. Simply mix a small amount of cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering sauce. Let it cook for another minute or two until it thickens to your desired texture. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
What cut of beef is best for beef teriyaki?
For tender, juicy beef teriyaki, choose cuts like sirloin, flank steak, or ribeye. These cuts are not only flavorful but also cook quickly, making them perfect for this dish. Be sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.
Can I make beef teriyaki ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef teriyaki ahead of time! The beef can be marinated in the sauce for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator to deepen the flavor. The cooked beef and sauce also store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve.
Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy-free option, you can substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce. Both options offer a similar savory depth without the gluten or soy content, making them great alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.
How can I make beef teriyaki spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, try adding sriracha, chili flakes, or fresh-sliced jalapeños to the sauce. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to control the spice level. The heat will pair beautifully with the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce!
beef teriyaki
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Sesame seeds optional, for garnish
- Scallions green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Beef
- Start by slicing your beef (flank steak or sirloin) into thin strips. Cutting against the grain will ensure the beef stays tender. Set the beef aside while you prepare the sauce.
Make the Teriyaki Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar. This combination of ingredients creates a balanced sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. Set aside.
Thicken the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Add this mixture to the teriyaki sauce. This will help thicken the sauce and give it that perfect glossy finish.
Cook the Beef
- Heat a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of sesame oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced beef and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Be sure to stir occasionally to avoid overcooking.
Add the Sauce
- Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the cooked beef. Stir everything together to coat the beef evenly. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the beef to soak up all that flavor.
Garnish and Serve
- Once the sauce has thickened, remove from heat and serve. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced scallions for an extra touch of flavor and color.