Easy Beef Teriyaki Recipe

There's something truly irresistible about the rich, savory-sweet flavor of beef teriyaki sizzling in the pan. Tender slices of beef, coated in a glossy, umami-packed sauce, make for the perfect quick and satisfying meal.

this Recipe

I first made this dish on a hectic weeknight, looking for something fast yet full of flavor. To my surprise, it came together in just minutes, instantly earning a spot in my dinner rotation. Whether served over rice, noodles, or even in a wrap, this easy beef teriyaki recipe is one you'll keep coming back to.

Why You'll Love This Easy Beef Teriyaki Recipe

Get ready to add a new favorite to your meal plan. This beef teriyaki is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly simple to make.

First off, it’s quick and easy. From start to finish, you’ll have this dish on the table in just 20 minutes. It’s the perfect solution for those busy nights when you need something delicious in a hurry.

It’s also budget-friendly. Using affordable cuts of beef and pantry staples means you get restaurant-quality flavor without breaking the bank.

The homemade sauce is unbeatable. Unlike store-bought versions that can be too sweet or filled with preservatives, this teriyaki sauce is perfectly balanced with the right mix of soy sauce, honey, and garlic.

And let’s not forget how versatile this dish is. Serve it over rice, tuck it into lettuce wraps, or even use it as a filling for sandwiches. You can also swap out the protein or add veggies for a fresh twist.

Once you try it, you'll see why this recipe is a total game-changer.

Ingredients Notes

This easy beef teriyaki relies on simple, bold ingredients that come together to create an incredible depth of flavor.

Beef – The best cut for this recipe is flank steak or sirloin, as they cook quickly and stay tender. If using a tougher cut like chuck, slicing it thinly against the grain is key to keeping it soft and juicy.

Soy sauce – The base of the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce provides the perfect balance of saltiness and umami. I recommend using low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt content.

Honey or brown sugar – This adds the signature teriyaki sweetness while helping the sauce caramelize beautifully. Honey creates a slightly richer flavor, while brown sugar gives a deeper molasses-like sweetness.

Garlic and ginger – These two ingredients bring essential warmth and depth to the sauce. Freshly minced garlic and ginger are best, but you can use garlic and ginger powder in a pinch.

Cornstarch slurry – A simple mix of cornstarch and water thickens the sauce to that perfect glossy consistency. This ensures the sauce clings to every bite of beef.

If you have a cast-iron skillet or wok, it’s ideal for getting a great sear on the beef while keeping the cooking process quick and even.

How To Make This Easy Beef Teriyaki

Making beef teriyaki at home is incredibly simple and requires just a few easy steps.

Start by slicing the beef as thinly as possible. The thinner the slices, the more tender they’ll be. To make slicing easier, freeze the beef for about 15 minutes beforehand.

Next, sear the beef in a hot skillet. Heat a bit of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat, then add the beef in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for a minute before stirring—this helps develop that rich, caramelized exterior. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan.

While the beef cooks, whisk together the sauce ingredients. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar for a hint of tang.

Once the beef is browned, pour in the sauce and let it simmer for a minute. Then, stir in the cornstarch slurry and watch as the sauce thickens into a luscious, glossy coating.

Give everything a final toss, making sure the beef is fully coated in the sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color.

This entire process takes less than 20 minutes, making it perfect for a fast and satisfying meal.

Storage Options

This beef teriyaki is great for meal prep, and storing leftovers is a breeze.

For refrigeration, store the cooled beef in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the best texture.

For freezing, place the beef and sauce in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

If meal prepping, store the beef and sauce separately from rice or noodles to prevent sogginess.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this beef teriyaki recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few easy ways to switch things up:

Swap the protein – Not a fan of beef? Try this recipe with chicken, shrimp, or even tofu. The sauce works beautifully with all kinds of proteins.

Add vegetables – Toss in some broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition. Stir-fry them before adding the sauce for the best texture.

Make it spicy – If you love heat, stir in a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Use a different sweetener – Instead of honey or brown sugar, try maple syrup or even a bit of pineapple juice for a tropical twist.

Go gluten-free – Simply swap out the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, and use a gluten-free thickener like arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch.

This recipe is all about making it work for you, so don’t be afraid to get creative. No matter how you customize it, you’re in for an incredibly flavorful meal.

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