Easy One-Pot Teriyaki Beef & Rice Recipe

If you’re searching for an easy one-pot teriyaki beef and rice recipe that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor, look no further. This delicious dish combines tender beef, perfectly cooked rice, and vibrant vegetables, all glazed in a savory teriyaki sauce. It’s a quick, hassle-free meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights and sure to become a family favorite.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a hectic week when my family craved comfort food, yet our calendar was bursting at the seams. I needed something that wasn’t just comforting but also simple to prepare and clean up. The beauty of this dish is how effortlessly it brings everyone to the table; the aroma alone is enough to draw even the busiest of teenagers from their rooms.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is truly a life-saver for busy chefs. One-pot meals mean fewer dishes, making clean-up a breeze. The teriyaki sauce adds a delightful umami flavor that’s both sweet and savory. Plus, it’s highly customizable; you can swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. Finally, it caters to a crowd, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients Notes
The ingredients list includes affordable, accessible items you likely already have in your pantry. For the beef, opt for thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin for the best tenderness. You can substitute chicken or tofu if you prefer. The key is a good quality teriyaki sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making your own for a fresher taste.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Heat some oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef slices and cook until browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2
In the same pot, add the chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they start to soften. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
Step 3
Add the uncooked rice to the pot, stirring to coat with the aromatic mixture. This will help toasting the rice lightly and infusing it with flavor.
Step 4
Pour in the teriyaki sauce and 2 cups of water or broth. Return the beef to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Step 5
Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5-10 minutes. This helps the rice absorb any remaining liquid. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Storage Options
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, portion the dish into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or over low heat on the stove, adding a bit of water if necessary to loosen the rice.
Variations & Substitutions
For a low-carb version, replace rice with cauliflower rice. Vegetarians can swap beef for tofu or more vegetables like broccoli and snap peas. Add a spicy kick by including sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce. Use sesame seeds and fresh scallions as a garnish to enhance flavor and presentation.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and pairs excellently with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For a larger spread, consider serving alongside kimchi or pickled vegetables to contrast the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce. It’s equally perfect for a casual lunch or dinner party meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but the cooking time will increase significantly. Plan for an additional 15-20 minutes of simmering. You might also need to add more liquid. Alternatively, precook the brown rice and add it towards the end of the cooking process.
What if I don’t have teriyaki sauce? No worries, you can make a simple homemade version using soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Add some cornstarch to thicken it up. A quick recipe is to mix 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup brown sugar, a teaspoon of minced garlic, and ginger, simmer until thick.
How can I make this dish gluten-free? Make sure your teriyaki sauce and soy sauce are gluten-free. Most brands offer gluten-free options. For a completely gluten-free meal, double-check labels to avoid wheat derivatives.
This easy one-pot meal is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly comforting and delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to a mouthwatering meal your family and friends will love. Give it a try, and watch it become a staple in your dinner rotation!

Easy One-Pot Teriyaki Beef & Rice Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef lean
- 1 cup white rice uncooked
- 2.5 cups beef broth low sodium
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce store-bought or homemade
- 0.5 cup carrots sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets fresh or frozen
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ginger fresh, grated
- 0.5 tsp salt to taste
- 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 0.25 cup green onions sliced, for garnish
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in carrots and cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in beef broth, teriyaki sauce, and bring to a simmer.
- Add rice, stir well, cover the pot, and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes.
- Stir in broccoli florets, cover again, and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper. Let the dish sit for 5 minutes off the heat to absorb extra liquid.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.