There is something incredibly satisfying about a homemade Beef Teriyaki Recipe that brings together tender, juicy steak with a glossy, sweet-savory glaze that’s bursting with flavor. This dish is the perfect balance of simplicity and deliciousness, combining just a handful of straightforward ingredients to create a meal that feels special yet remains easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a teriyaki veteran or trying it for the first time, this Beef Teriyaki Recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image of a black cast iron pan filled with multiple pieces of brown, seared meat chunks mixed with small golden-brown diced onions and green sliced scallions scattered on top. The meat pieces have a slightly crispy, browned texture on the outside, sitting in a glossy, dark brown sauce that mixes with the cooked onions. The pan is resting on a surface with white marbled texture, and part of a wooden bowl filled with black peppercorns is visible in the top right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Beef Teriyaki Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is essential and plays a crucial role in crafting that iconic teriyaki flavor. From the punchy freshness of ginger to the rich umami of soy sauce, every component adds depth and balance to the dish.

Soy sauce (1/4 cup): This is the salty backbone of the teriyaki glaze, providing depth and that irresistible umami hit.
Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to contrast the soy sauce and caramelize beautifully on the beef.
Fresh ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): Brings a bright, slightly spicy note to the sauce, keeping the flavors lively and fresh.
Sirloin steak (1 lb, cut into cubes): Choose a tender cut like sirloin for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness when seared.
Small onion (1, chopped): Adds sweetness and texture when cooked, complementing the sauce’s richness.
Green onion (for garnish, optional): Provides a fresh, crisp finish and a pop of color on the plate.

How to Make Beef Teriyaki Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

Start by whisking together the soy sauce, brown sugar, and freshly grated ginger in a small bowl until the sugar dissolves completely. This simple sauce is the heart of the Beef Teriyaki Recipe and sets the tone for the bold, delicious flavor to come.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Cubes

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s very hot. Sear the sirloin cubes for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, allowing a rich brown crust to form. This caramelization adds amazing flavor and texture. Once seared, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Using the same skillet, toss in the chopped onions. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and become translucent. This step infuses the dish with natural sweetness and provides a great base for the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Sauce with Onions

Pour the prepared soy sauce mixture into the skillet and stir it with the onions. Let the mixture come together, releasing those familiar and comforting teriyaki aromas.

Step 5: Return Beef to the Pan

Add the seared beef cubes back into the skillet. Stir everything together carefully so the beef is coated evenly with the sweet and savory sauce and mingling with the tender onions.

Step 6: Simmer and Thicken

Allow the Beef Teriyaki Recipe to simmer gently for another 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings beautifully to each piece of beef, locking in the flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling with chopped green onions, if you like, for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while hot, ideally over steaming bowls of rice or alongside your favorite noodles or veggies.

How to Serve Beef Teriyaki Recipe

A white bowl filled with a base layer of fluffy white rice, topped with a thick pile of cooked brown meat pieces mixed with caramelized onions and small bits of orange-colored vegetables. Bright green chopped spring onions are scattered on top and around the meat, adding fresh color contrast. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, adding a clean and simple background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding sliced green onions not only delivers a mild, fresh crunch but also brightens the overall look of the dish. You can also sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds for an extra nutty touch that pairs perfectly with the teriyaki glaze.

Side Dishes

Beef Teriyaki Recipe pairs best with fluffy steamed rice to soak up the flavorful sauce or some stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added color and crunch. For a low-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside spiralized zucchini noodles.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Beef Teriyaki on a bed of lightly sautéed greens or even tucked into lettuce wraps for a handheld treat. Another fun idea is to arrange it on a sushi rice bowl with avocado slices and pickled ginger for an Asian-inspired fusion meal that wows your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Beef Teriyaki Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The beef will stay tender and the sauce remains delicious, making it perfect for quick lunches or a convenient dinner.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked beef and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking or drying out. A quick zap in the microwave on medium power also works well if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of beef for this Beef Teriyaki Recipe?

Absolutely! While sirloin is tender and flavorful, other cuts like ribeye or flank steak can also work. Just be mindful of cooking times to avoid overcooking tougher cuts.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap regular soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep the recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing that signature savory taste.

Can I add vegetables directly to the Beef Teriyaki Recipe?

Definitely! Stir-frying bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas with the onions is a great way to add nutrition and color, making the dish even more vibrant and satisfying.

How do I get the sauce to thicken properly?

Simmering the beef and sauce together allows the sugars to caramelize and the liquids to reduce, naturally thickening the sauce. If you want it thicker faster, adding a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water also helps.

Is this Beef Teriyaki Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s a fantastic option for meal prepping! It reheats well and keeps its flavors, making it easy to enjoy a delicious homemade meal throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Teriyaki Recipe is truly a joy to make and eat—simple enough to whip up on a busy night but rich enough to impress anyone at your table. I can’t recommend it enough if you want a flavorful, comforting dish that comes together with minimal fuss and maximum taste. Give it a try and see how quickly it becomes one of your favorite dinners!

Beef Teriyaki Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 9 reviews

Author: Sara
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A quick and flavorful Beef Teriyaki recipe featuring tender sirloin steak cubes seared to perfection, cooked with savory soy sauce, brown sugar, and fresh ginger. This dish is garnished with green onions and perfect for a satisfying meal served over rice or noodles.

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

Main Ingredients

1 lb sirloin steak, cut into cubes
1 small onion, chopped
Green onion, chopped (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, and grated ginger. Mix thoroughly until the sugar dissolves, creating a smooth teriyaki sauce.
Sear the Steak: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sirloin steak cubes and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a rich, brown crust. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Onions: Add the chopped onions to the same skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become translucent, absorbing some of the flavor left in the pan.
Add Teriyaki Sauce: Pour the prepared soy sauce mixture into the skillet with the onions. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Combine Beef and Sauce: Return the seared beef cubes to the skillet and stir thoroughly to coat them with the sauce and onions evenly.
Simmer and Thicken: Allow the beef and sauce to simmer together for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld perfectly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.