Savory Ground Beef Teriyaki for Quick Weeknight Meals

Hi I'm Stacy

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on 24 July 2025

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of savory soy sauce mingling with the warmth of ginger brought me back to my favorite cozy bistro. Today, I’m excited to share my Meal Prep Ground Beef Teriyaki recipe—a quick dinner solution that transforms ground beef into a delicious, comforting meal any day of the week. This recipe is not only beginner-friendly, but it’s also a meal prep superstar—perfect for anyone looking to steer away from fast food while still enjoying hearty, homemade goodness. With vibrant veggies and a sweet-savory sauce that clings beautifully to rice, it promises satisfaction with every bite. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into the details!

Why is Ground Beef Teriyaki a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Finest: This easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and quick prep, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.

Savory and Sweet Delight: The blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, and fresh ginger creates a uniquely satisfying flavor profile you’ll crave again and again.

Meal Prep Magic: Prepare a batch ahead for effortless lunches throughout the week. It’s ideal to store in the fridge for up to four days, making it a go-to for convenience.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With vibrant colors and rich flavors, this dish will impress family and friends alike—just like those delightful meals from your favorite bistro.

Versatile Variations: Swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken, or mix in extra veggies like snap peas to match your taste preferences. Embrace creativity and make it your own!

Elevate your meal planning and say goodbye to fast food with this deliciously simple recipe. For more meal prep ideas, don’t miss my Ground Sausage Savor and Roast Beef Sliders posts!

Ground Beef Teriyaki Ingredients

• Dive into these satisfying ingredients that bring this delicious meal to life!

For the Beef and Sauce

Ground Beef – Provides a hearty, protein-packed base; swap for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Soy Sauce – Offers umami and salty flavor; essential for forming the teriyaki base.
Brown Sugar – Adds warmth and sweetness, balancing the savory flavors; adjust quantity for your sweetness preference.
Garlic – Delivers aromatic depth; freshly minced is best for flavor.
Ginger – Provides a zesty, slightly peppery accent; freshly grated enhances the dish.
Rice Vinegar – Introduces acidity, lifting the overall flavor of the dish.
Cornstarch – Functions as a thickening agent for the sauce; ensure it’s mixed with water for smooth blending.
Water – Used to dissolve cornstarch, ensuring a lump-free mixture.
Sesame Oil – Imparts a nutty aroma that rounds out the teriyaki flavor.

For the Vegetables

Onion – Diced for sweetness and texture; softens beautifully during cooking.
Red Bell Pepper – Adds vibrant color and crunch, while providing natural sweetness.
Broccoli Florets – Contributes vibrant color and texture; maintain a bite when cooked properly.

For the Garnish

Sesame Seeds – Garnish for a nutty finish and visual appeal.
Green Onions – Adds a fresh bite and decorative touch on top.

For Serving

Cooked Rice – Serves as a base for soaking up the flavorful sauce; can be swapped with quinoa or cauliflower rice.

Get ready to whip up a delightful Ground Beef Teriyaki meal everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Meal Prep Ground Beef Teriyaki

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined, about 2 minutes. This rich teriyaki sauce will provide the essential sweet and savory flavor profile for your Meal Prep Ground Beef Teriyaki.

Step 2: Mix the Cornstarch Slurry
In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with water until completely smooth, taking care to avoid any lumps. This cornstarch slurry is key to thickening the sauce later, creating that glossy, restaurant-quality finish. Set both the teriyaki sauce and the cornstarch mixture aside for later.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes until hot. Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and no longer pink. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is nicely browned and excess fat can be drained for a cleaner flavor in the final dish.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
After draining excess fat, add the diced onion and chopped red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry them for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant, allowing the onions to become translucent. This step will enhance the flavor base of your Meal Prep Ground Beef Teriyaki.

Step 5: Add Broccoli Florets
Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, just until they turn bright green and are tender-crisp. This vibrant vegetable will add both color and nutrition to your Ground Beef Teriyaki, making it a wholesome meal.

Step 6: Combine with Teriyaki Sauce
Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce into the skillet, stirring well to coat all the beef and veggies evenly. Let this delicious mixture cook for 2 minutes on medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld and infuse the ingredients with that savory-sweet teriyaki goodness.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet, stirring continuously for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings beautifully to the beef and vegetables. This step will create the perfect, luscious teriyaki sauce that elevates your dish to restaurant-quality.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a fresh finish. Serve your Meal Prep Ground Beef Teriyaki hot over cooked rice or prepare it in meal prep containers for easy reheating throughout the week. Enjoy your flavorful creation!

Ground Beef Teriyaki Variations

Feel free to get creative with this dish and customize it to your taste and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Instead of adding any dairy, you can enjoy the full flavor of this savory dish without compromising your dietary preferences.
Add More Veggies: Pack in more nutrition by incorporating vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or zucchini, enhancing flavors and textures. They’ll brighten up your dish beautifully!
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some chili flakes or Sriracha for a delightful heat that balances the sweetness of teriyaki sauce. A touch of spice can elevate the dish!
Tropical Twist: Mix in fresh pineapple chunks for a sweet, tropical essence. The juicy fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the savory beef and enhances the overall dish.
Whole Grain Base: Swap traditional rice for brown rice or quinoa for added nutrients. These hearty bases pair wonderfully with the teriyaki sauce.
Protein Swap: Try using ground turkey, chicken, or even shrimp for a lighter protein option. Each will bring its unique flavor and texture to the meal.
Noodle Delight: Serve the beef teriyaki over stir-fried noodles for a fun twist. A quick change that adds a whole new texture to your plate.
Vegan Option: Utilize crumbled tempeh or tofu instead of ground beef for a delicious plant-based meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This option is satisfying in every bite!

These variations can easily transform your Ground Beef Teriyaki into a new experience each time you prepare it. Enjoy exploring these ideas, and if you’re looking for more delicious meal prep inspiration, don’t miss my Ground Sausage Savor and Roast Beef Sliders posts!

Make Ahead Options

These Meal Prep Ground Beef Teriyaki ingredients are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time throughout the week! You can prepare the teriyaki sauce and chop the vegetables (onion, red bell pepper, and broccoli) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The ground beef can be cooked in advance, then refrigerated for up to 3 days; just reheat it quickly in a skillet before adding the teriyaki sauce on the day you plan to serve. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal with minimal effort, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

What to Serve with Meal Prep Ground Beef Teriyaki

Complement your delicious dinner with these fantastic sides and treats.

Steamed Broccoli: Bright and lightly seasoned, it mirrors the broccoli in your teriyaki, enhancing flavor and nutrition without overwhelming the palate.
Fluffy Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing that perfectly absorbs the rich teriyaki sauce, balancing the sweetness and savoriness beautifully.
Crispy Egg Rolls: Their crunchy exterior and savory fillings make for a delightful texture contrast, adding a festive touch to your meal.
Fresh Cucumber Salad: Enjoy a cool, crisp salad drizzled with rice vinegar for acidity, which brightens up the savory elements of your Ground Beef Teriyaki.
Sweet and Sour Pineapple: Adding a fruity note, sweet pineapple chunks can be served as a refreshing side, playing beautifully against the savory teriyaki flavors.
Chilled Green Tea: Offer a calming drink that complements the meal perfectly, cleansing the palate after each savory bite.
Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a light sesame sauce, they provide an Asian-inspired alternative to rice, making your meal even heartier and comforting.
Mango Sorbet: For dessert, a scoop of mango sorbet gives a refreshing and fruity finish, creating a delightful conclusion to your Asian-inspired feast.

How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef Teriyaki

Fridge: Store in airtight containers and keep in the fridge for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: Package portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until heated through, ensuring a deliciously warm meal.

Expert Tips for Ground Beef Teriyaki

Texture Matters: Ensure the ground beef is well-browned to enhance flavor. Half-cook it to prevent a greasy finish from excess fat.
Sauce Thickness: Achieve the desired sauce consistency by adding the cornstarch mixture slowly while stirring to avoid lumps in your Ground Beef Teriyaki.
Veggie Crunch: Cook broccoli until just bright green. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture that lacks the satisfying crunch.
Sweetness Control: Adjust the brown sugar in the teriyaki sauce to fit your taste buds—less for a savory dish, more for extra sweetness!
Meal Prep Ease: Portion the Ground Beef Teriyaki into airtight containers for stress-free lunches throughout the week. It stays delicious for up to four days in the fridge!

Meal Prep Ground Beef Teriyaki Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ground beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing ground beef, look for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for a balance of flavor and moisture. Aim for bright red color with minimal dark spots. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes without sacrificing taste!

How should I store leftover Ground Beef Teriyaki?
Very easy! Store the leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. This ensures you can enjoy the flavors of your Ground Beef Teriyaki once more while keeping it fresh and delicious.

Can I freeze Ground Beef Teriyaki? If so, how?
Absolutely, you can freeze it! Package the Ground Beef Teriyaki in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to use, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet until piping hot.

What if my sauce isn’t thick enough?
Don’t worry! If the sauce is runny, mix an additional 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of water to create a slurry. Gradually add this mixture to your skillet while stirring, and cook for 1-2 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. This will give your Ground Beef Teriyaki that ideal sticky, glossy finish!

Is this recipe suitable for specific dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! To make this Ground Beef Teriyaki gluten-free, swap soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. For a healthier version, using ground turkey or chicken will reduce fat content. Always check ingredient labels for allergens, especially with sauces!

Can I add more vegetables to the Ground Beef Teriyaki?
Very! Feel free to mix in additional veggies like snap peas, carrots, or even mushrooms for extra crunch and nutrition. The more, the merrier—embracing seasonal vegetables can enhance both flavor and overall healthiness!