Name: Easy Beef Teriyaki Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced; 1/3 cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ginger, grated; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1/4 cup water; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional); 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

There's something irresistible about the sweet and savory combination of beef teriyaki. The tender beef, coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce, is perfect over a bed of steaming rice. Best of all, this homemade version comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

I first started making this recipe when I was craving takeout but wanted something healthier and more affordable. After a few tweaks, I found the perfect balance of flavors that my family loves. Now, it's a go-to dish whenever we need a quick, satisfying meal.

Why You'll Love This Easy Beef Teriyaki

Get ready to add a new favorite to your meal rotation! This Easy Beef Teriyaki is a must-try for several reasons.

First, it's quick and easy—you can have dinner on the table in less than half an hour. Perfect for those nights when time is tight but you still want a home-cooked meal.

Second, it's budget-friendly. Made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, this dish proves that delicious meals don’t have to break the bank.

Third, it's versatile. You can swap out the protein, adjust the sauce to your liking, and pair it with rice, noodles, or even steamed vegetables.

Lastly, it tastes better than takeout. With the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors, you'll wonder why you didn't try making it at home sooner.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Easy Beef Teriyaki lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect dish.

Beef: The best cuts for this recipe are flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye. These cuts are tender, cook quickly, and absorb the sauce beautifully. For easy slicing, pop the beef in the freezer for 15 minutes before cutting it against the grain.

Soy Sauce: This forms the base of the teriyaki sauce, adding depth and saltiness. I recommend using low-sodium soy sauce so you can control the seasoning better.

Brown Sugar: This provides the dish with its signature sweetness, balancing out the salty and umami flavors. You can also use honey for a slightly different sweetness.

Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger add warmth and a slight spiciness to the sauce. If you're short on time, garlic and ginger paste work as a great substitute.

Cornstarch: A little cornstarch helps thicken the sauce, giving it that glossy, restaurant-quality texture. It also helps the beef sear nicely when used in the marinade.

How To Make This Easy Beef Teriyaki

Making this Easy Beef Teriyaki is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps to create a flavorful dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Start by slicing the beef into thin strips. To ensure even cooking, try to keep them uniform in size. Place the beef in a bowl and toss with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a bit of oil. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the sauce.

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and a splash of water. This will be your teriyaki sauce. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil, then cook the beef in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Let it sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and slightly crispy. Remove the beef and set it aside.

In the same pan, pour in the prepared teriyaki sauce. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until it slightly thickens. Then, return the cooked beef to the pan and toss everything together until the beef is fully coated in the glossy sauce.

Serve immediately over steamed rice, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for extra flavor and crunch. This dish takes about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a last-minute dinner.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This Easy Beef Teriyaki stores well for quick meals later.

For refrigeration, place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and store for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!

For freezing, portion the cooked beef and sauce into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm the beef in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, for a quick alternative.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Easy Beef Teriyaki is how adaptable it is. Here are some great ways to make it your own:

Switch up the protein: If you don’t have beef on hand, try using chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Each one soaks up the delicious teriyaki sauce beautifully.

Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative without sacrificing flavor.

Add vegetables: Stir-fry some broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas along with the beef for a more balanced meal. The vegetables add color, crunch, and extra nutrition.

Spice it up: If you love heat, mix in a little sriracha or chili flakes to give the sauce a spicy kick. Adjust to your preferred spice level.

Serve it differently: Instead of rice, try serving this teriyaki beef over noodles, quinoa, or even in lettuce wraps for a fun twist.

However you choose to make it, this Easy Beef Teriyaki is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!