Easy Beef Teriyaki Recipe

There's something truly special about the combination of savory, sweet, and umami flavors in a classic Beef Teriyaki. With tender strips of beef coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce, this dish is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

I first discovered this recipe while looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. After a bit of experimenting, I found the perfect balance of soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger that creates a sauce worthy of your favorite takeout spot. Plus, this homemade version is even better because you control the ingredients and freshness.

This easy Beef Teriyaki comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You'll Love This Easy Beef Teriyaki

If you’re looking for a quick and foolproof dinner, this Beef Teriyaki has you covered. It's packed with flavor, simple to make, and sure to impress.

First, it’s incredibly fast—you can have it on the table in less time than it takes to order takeout. A short marinade and quick stir-fry mean you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in under half an hour.

Second, it’s budget-friendly. With just a handful of affordable pantry staples and a reasonably priced cut of beef, you can serve up a meal that tastes gourmet without the hefty price tag.

It’s also versatile—you can swap the beef for chicken, tofu, or even shrimp. Plus, you can load it up with extra veggies for added nutrition.

Lastly, making this at home means you control the ingredients, reducing the sodium and eliminating unnecessary additives often found in restaurant versions.

Now, let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The key to amazing Beef Teriyaki is using the right combination of ingredients. Let’s break down what makes this dish so irresistible.

Beef: The best choice for this dish is flank steak or sirloin, as they’re both tender and cook quickly. Be sure to slice against the grain for the most tender bite. If you prefer, you can also use ribeye for a richer flavor.

Soy Sauce: This is the foundation of the teriyaki sauce, providing the signature salty umami base. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you want to keep the saltiness in check.

Brown Sugar: A touch of brown sugar balances out the saltiness and brings that signature sweet, caramelized flavor to the sauce.

Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic add warmth and depth to the dish. If you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger will work in a pinch, but fresh is always best.

Cornstarch: A cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce to give it that perfect glossy coating that clings to every bite of beef.

No special equipment is needed—just a good skillet or wok and a sharp knife for slicing the beef.

How To Make This Easy Beef Teriyaki

Making this dish is as simple as marinating, cooking, and coating everything in the delicious sauce. Here’s how to do it step by step.

Start by slicing your flank steak into thin strips, cutting against the grain for maximum tenderness. Toss the beef with a bit of soy sauce and cornstarch, letting it marinate while you prep the other ingredients. This quick marinade helps lock in flavor and gives the beef a nice texture when cooked.

Next, heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil, then cook the beef in batches to ensure it gets a good sear. Overcrowding the pan will cause the meat to steam rather than brown. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes per side, then remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil and toss in your garlic and ginger. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds, then pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of water. Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer.

To thicken the sauce, mix a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) and slowly pour it into the pan, stirring constantly. The sauce will quickly thicken and develop a beautiful shine.

Finally, return the cooked beef to the pan, tossing it in the sauce until everything is well coated. Let it cook for another minute or two, then remove from heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, and you’re ready to serve!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this Beef Teriyaki stores beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

• Refrigerator: Store for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Freezer: This dish freezes well! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is! Here are a few ways to change things up:

• Swap the protein: Not a fan of beef? This teriyaki sauce works wonderfully with chicken, pork, shrimp, or even tofu.
• Add veggies: Make it a complete meal by tossing in some broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, stir in some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
• Use honey instead of sugar: Swap out brown sugar for honey for a slightly different sweetness.
• Go gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

With so many ways to make it your own, you’ll never get bored of this easy Beef Teriyaki recipe. Give it a try tonight—you might just skip takeout for good!

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