When I first made this Quick Beef Teriyaki recipe, I couldn’t believe how easy and flavorful it was! With tender strips of beef coated in a rich, sticky teriyaki sauce, every bite took me back to restaurant-quality teriyaki bowls—but made right in my kitchen. It’s perfect for weeknights when time is tight but you want something seriously satisfying. If you’re ready to transform a simple dinner into a showstopper, this recipe is for you!
Credit: kitchensanctuary
Ingredients for the Recipe
The magic of this dish lies in simple ingredients that come together to create bold flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Beef:
- 2 lbs flank steak
Why this cut? Flank steak is lean, tender, and perfect for soaking up the teriyaki sauce. Be sure to slice it super thin for the best results. - 1/2 cup cornstarch
Pro Tip: Coating the beef with cornstarch gives it a crispy exterior. Shake off any excess for even cooking. - 4-6 tablespoons coconut oil (or preferred cooking oil)
Coconut oil adds a subtle richness, but any neutral oil like vegetable or avocado oil works too.
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (substitute with tamari for gluten-free)
This is the base of that savory umami flavor. - 1/2 cup brown sugar
Adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the saltiness. - 1/4 cup water
Helps to thin out the sauce just enough. - 1 tablespoon cornstarch
This thickens the sauce, giving it that signature glossy texture. - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Adds a mild kick to the dish. Feel free to skip for less heat. - 3 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh garlic takes the flavor up a notch. - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Brings a warm, peppery zing to the dish. - 3 green onions, thinly sliced
Both for flavor and a bright finishing touch.
Note: This recipe serves about 4-6 people. Adjust ingredient quantities accordingly if you’re cooking for a smaller or larger crowd.
Variations to Try
Love to switch things up? Here are a few suggestions to customize this recipe to your taste:
- Sugar-free option: Replace brown sugar with a natural sweetener like monk fruit.
- Low-carb: Serve cauliflower rice instead of steamed rice for a lighter meal.
- Vegetarian twist: Swap out beef for tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based option.
- Extra veggies: Add sautéed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for crunch and color.
- Milder sauce: Reduce red pepper flakes or omit them entirely if you prefer no heat.
For more inspiration, check out this Beef Pan-Fried Noodles recipe for a delicious twist on beef dishes.
Cooking Time
Got a busy schedule? Here’s how the timing breaks down:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Equipment You Need
Keep it simple with these essentials:
- Large skillet: For browning the beef and cooking the sauce.
- Sharp knife: To thinly slice the flank steak.
- Cutting board: For prepping the meat and green onions.
- Mixing bowl: To whisk together the teriyaki sauce.
- Tongs: Useful for flipping and tossing the beef in the skillet.
How to Make Quick Beef Teriyaki Recipe?
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by slicing the flank steak into thin strips. To make slicing easier, partially freeze the meat for about 15 minutes. This firms it up, making it less wobbly. After slicing, toss the steak in a zip-top bag with cornstarch until every piece is lightly coated. Remember to shake off the excess cornstarch for even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
While the beef is resting, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, water, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. This sweet and savory mixture will serve as your sauce. Set aside for now.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Heat a few tablespoons of coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, carefully lay half the beef strips in a single layer. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on one side without stirring, so they develop a crispy golden-brown exterior. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, then transfer to a plate. Repeat with the remaining beef.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
After the beef is cooked, reduce the skillet to medium heat and add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green onions for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the prepared sauce, stirring constantly, until it starts to thicken.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Return the cooked beef to the skillet and toss it in the thickened teriyaki sauce. Cook for just a minute to warm everything through. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Credit: kitchensanctuary
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
After making this dish a few times, here are some tips that I’ve found really elevate it:
- Slice against the grain: This ensures the beef is tender, not chewy.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: This prevents the beef from steaming instead of browning.
- Prep ahead: Mix the sauce or slice the beef ahead of time to make dinner come together faster.
- Add garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and extra green onions on top for a beautiful finish.
- Balance the sweetness: If you find the sauce too sweet, add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice.
You can also enjoy similar beef recipes like Crockpot Barbecue Brisket Sandwiches for a slow-cooked delight.
How to Serve Quick Beef Teriyaki Recipe?
Presentation is everything when it comes to elevating a meal. Serve the beef teriyaki over a bed of fluffy steamed rice to soak up all that luscious sauce. Pair it with steamed broccoli or snap peas for a pop of green. For added flair, garnish with sesame seeds, thinly sliced green onions, or even some crispy fried onions for texture.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is as nourishing as it is delicious. Here’s a quick breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fat: 17g
Make Ahead and Storage
This dish can be prepped in advance and reheats beautifully.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked beef and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the beef lose its crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this Quick Beef Teriyaki recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:
- Time-efficient: It’s ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Customizable: Adapt the recipe to match your dietary preferences or flavor cravings.
- Crowd-pleaser: Its restaurant-quality flavor will impress guests and picky eaters alike.
- Simple ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
- One-pan dish: Less cleanup without skimping on flavor!
Enjoy your homemade takeout-style beef teriyaki with all the joy of restaurant dining, minus the bill. For more beef recipe ideas, you can also explore this Beef Recipe collection for inspiration.