Teriyaki Beef & Pineapple Rice Bowl

Teriyaki Beef & Pineapple Rice Bowl is a flavorful, satisfying meal that brings together sweet and savory in the best way possible. Tender strips of beef are glazed in a sticky homemade teriyaki sauce and served over fluffy rice with juicy pineapple chunks and crisp vegetables. It’s quick, vibrant, and hits all the right notes—perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this rice bowl combines bold flavors and textures in one easy-to-make dish. The teriyaki sauce is glossy, rich, and just the right amount of sweet. The pineapple adds a burst of freshness that balances the savory beef beautifully. I can have it ready in under 30 minutes, and it always feels like something I’d order at a favorite takeout spot—but better, because it’s homemade.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced

• Cooked white or jasmine rice

• Canned pineapple chunks (or fresh)

• Bell peppers, sliced

• Carrots, julienned or shredded

• Green onions, chopped

• Soy sauce

• Brown sugar

• Garlic, minced

• Fresh ginger, grated

• Cornstarch

• Water

• Sesame oil

• Vegetable oil

• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. I cook the rice according to package directions and keep it warm.

2. In a small bowl, I whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, water, and a splash of sesame oil to make the teriyaki sauce.

3. In a large skillet or wok, I heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. I add the sliced beef and cook it until browned and just cooked through, then remove it and set it aside.

4. In the same pan, I stir-fry the bell peppers and carrots until just tender but still crisp, about 2–3 minutes.

5. I return the beef to the pan and pour in the teriyaki sauce. I cook everything together for another 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and veggies.

6. I stir in the pineapple chunks and let them warm through.

7. To serve, I scoop rice into bowls and top it with the teriyaki beef, veggies, and pineapple. I sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds if I want a little extra flavor and crunch.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prep and 15–20 minutes to cook, so I can have it ready in under 30 minutes. It’s great for busy nights when I still want something delicious and satisfying.

Variations

I sometimes swap the beef for chicken, shrimp, or even tofu if I’m making it meatless. For added veggies, I’ve used broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini. If I’m craving more heat, I add a drizzle of sriracha or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. And sometimes I use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a lighter option.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until hot. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, I stir in a splash of water or soy sauce while reheating to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 1 week. I just shake or stir it before using, since the cornstarch may settle.

What cut of beef works best?

I like using flank steak or sirloin because they’re tender and cook quickly. I slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Absolutely. I use either canned or fresh pineapple depending on what I have. Fresh gives it an extra-bright flavor and a nice texture.

Is this dish spicy?

Not as written—it’s sweet and savory with no heat. But I’ve added chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce if I want to turn it up.

Can I make this for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. I portion it into containers with rice and keep it refrigerated for easy lunches or dinners during the week.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Beef & Pineapple Rice Bowl is a go-to meal when I want something quick, colorful, and packed with flavor. It’s got everything I love—tender beef, sticky sauce, fresh veggies, and sweet pineapple—all layered over rice for a comforting and complete dish. Whether I’m making it for the family or just myself, it always hits the spot.