Easy Beef Teriyaki Recipe

There's nothing better than the sweet and savory aroma of beef teriyaki sizzling in a hot pan. This easy recipe brings all the flavors of your favorite takeout dish to your own kitchen, using simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.

I first made this recipe when I needed a quick yet satisfying dinner on a busy weeknight. It has since become a staple in our home, loved for its bold flavors and effortless preparation. With just a few pantry staples and less than 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality dish ready to serve.

Why You'll Love This Easy Beef Teriyaki Recipe

Get ready to add a new favorite to your meal rotation. This beef teriyaki is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for any night of the week.

One of the best things about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. With just a few steps and a handful of ingredients, you'll have a flavorful meal in under half an hour—ideal for those nights when you need dinner on the table fast.

It's also budget-friendly. Using affordable cuts of beef like flank steak or sirloin ensures that you get a hearty, satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

This dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it over steamed rice, pair it with stir-fried vegetables, or even use it as a filling for a teriyaki beef bowl. However you enjoy it, the bold flavors shine through.

The homemade teriyaki sauce is a game-changer. Unlike store-bought versions loaded with preservatives, this sauce is made with simple ingredients that balance sweetness, saltiness, and umami perfectly.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this beef teriyaki recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in achieving that perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory.

Beef: The key to tender beef teriyaki is choosing the right cut. Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye work best because they cook quickly and remain juicy. Slice the beef thinly against the grain for the best texture.

Soy Sauce: This provides the salty, umami base of the teriyaki sauce. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a milder taste, or regular soy sauce for a more robust flavor.

Brown Sugar: The sweetness in the sauce comes from brown sugar, which also helps create that signature glossy glaze. If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount slightly or substitute honey.

Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger add depth and warmth to the sauce. If you're in a pinch, garlic and ginger paste work as a quick alternative, but fresh always yields the best flavor.

Cornstarch: This helps thicken the sauce, giving it that silky, restaurant-quality consistency. A cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a bit of water) is added toward the end of cooking to achieve the perfect thickness.

How To Make This Easy Beef Teriyaki Recipe

Making beef teriyaki at home is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a foolproof, flavor-packed dish.

Start by preparing the beef. Slice it thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. If your beef is tough to slice, pop it in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm it up—it makes cutting much easier.

Next, make the teriyaki sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and a splash of water. Set it aside while you heat your pan.

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Once hot, add the beef in a single layer. Let it sear for about 2-3 minutes without stirring to develop a nice crust, then flip and cook for another minute until browned.

Pour in the teriyaki sauce and let it simmer for a minute. Mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to make a slurry, then stir it into the sauce. This will help thicken it to the perfect consistency.

Once the sauce has thickened and coated the beef, remove it from heat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for extra flavor and a touch of freshness.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this beef teriyaki stores well and reheats beautifully. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together even more over time, making it just as tasty the next day.

For longer storage, you can freeze beef teriyaki for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave it in short bursts, stirring between each to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

This beef teriyaki recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to tweak it to your preferences.

For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce. The added heat balances the sweetness beautifully.

If you want a healthier twist, swap the brown sugar for honey or maple syrup. Both provide a natural sweetness that pairs well with the soy sauce and garlic.

For a vegetarian option, replace the beef with tofu or mushrooms. Firm tofu soaks up the sauce wonderfully, while mushrooms add a meaty texture and rich umami flavor.

Try adding vegetables for extra nutrition and color. Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas make great additions and complement the flavors of the teriyaki sauce.

This recipe is also great with other proteins. Swap the beef for chicken, shrimp, or even thinly sliced pork for a different take on teriyaki.

No matter how you customize it, this easy beef teriyaki recipe is a winner. Give it a try and see just how simple and satisfying homemade teriyaki can be!

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