This Instant Pot Beef Teriyaki meal prep recipe is a flavorful and wholesome dish that’s perfect for busy individuals craving convenience without compromising on flavor. Picture succulent pieces of lean beef stew meat simmered in a rich and savory teriyaki sauce, infused with the aromatic flavors of garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. But that’s not all – we’re taking things up a notch by adding a medley of vibrant vegetables, including onions, bell peppers, and crushed pineapple, for a burst of freshness and nutrition. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility – whether you’re meal prepping for the week ahead or looking for a quick and satisfying dinner option, Instant Pot Beef Teriyaki has got you covered.
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Why this Instant Pot Beef Recipe is Great for Meal Prep
- Quick and Easy Prep: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe won’t have you spending hours in the kitchen. It’s designed for those on the go who need a meal prep solution that fits into their busy schedule.
- Instant Pot Magic: The Instant Pot is a lifesaver for busy folks. It cooks food faster than traditional methods, meaning you can have a delicious meal on the table in a fraction of the time. It’s the ultimate kitchen multitasker!
- Nutritious and Balanced: Lean beef stew meat, fresh vegetables, and wholesome grains make this dish a nutritional powerhouse. It’s packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals to fuel your body and keep you going throughout the day.
- Budget-Friendly: Eating well shouldn’t break the bank, and this recipe proves just that. By using affordable ingredients like beef stew meat, onions, and bell peppers, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without overspending.
- Delicious and Satisfying: Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about flavor. This Instant Pot Beef Teriyaki is an explosion of taste in every bite. From the tender beef to the savory teriyaki sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Lean Beef Stew Meat: Lean beef stew meat is the protein powerhouse of this dish. It’s not only rich in protein, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied, but it also adds a hearty flavor to the dish. By opting for lean cuts, we keep the dish healthy without sacrificing taste.
- Onions: Onions are a kitchen staple for a reason. They add a delicious depth of flavor to any dish and are packed with nutrients like vitamins C and B6, as well as antioxidants. Plus, they’re super affordable, making them a budget-friendly choice that adds both flavor and nutrition to our beef teriyaki.
- Bell Peppers: Not only do bell peppers add a pop of color to our dish, but they also bring a subtle sweetness and crunch. They’re loaded with vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, making them a nutritious addition to our meal. Plus, they’re relatively inexpensive, especially when in season, making them a wallet-friendly choice.
- Garlic and Ginger: These aromatic ingredients are the flavor powerhouses of our dish. Garlic adds a savory depth, while ginger brings a zesty, slightly spicy kick. Both are known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, adding both flavor and health benefits to our meal.
- Crushed Pineapple: Crushed pineapple adds a touch of sweetness and acidity to our teriyaki sauce. It helps balance out the savory flavors and adds a tropical twist to the dish. Plus, canned pineapple is an affordable option that’s available year-round, making it a budget-friendly choice.
- Beef Broth: Beef broth not only serves as the liquid base for our dish but also adds depth and richness to the flavor. It helps tenderize the beef and infuses it with savory goodness. Using store-bought beef broth is a convenient and budget-friendly option, but you can also make your own using leftover beef bones for an even thriftier choice.
- Soy Sauce: Soy sauce is the star of our teriyaki sauce, adding that classic umami-rich flavor. It’s salty, savory, and adds a depth of flavor that ties everything together. Plus, it’s a pantry staple that’s relatively inexpensive and adds a ton of flavor to dishes without breaking the bank.
- Sesame Oil: Sesame oil adds a nutty richness to our dish and helps round out the flavors of our teriyaki sauce. A little goes a long way, so even though it may be a bit pricier than other oils, you only need a small amount to add a big punch of flavor.
How to Meal Prep Instant Pot Beef Teriyaki
- Gather up all your ingredients and let’s prep like a pro! Slice those onions, cube the bell pepper, peel those garlic cloves, and grate that ginger. We’re about to create magic in the kitchen!
- Now, it’s time to bring out the Instant Pot, our trusty sidekick in the kitchen. Add in the beef, onions, garlic, ginger, bell peppers, crushed pineapple, beef broth, soy sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and sesame oil. It’s like a party in there!
- Close the lid of your Instant Pot and set the valve to “sealing”. We’re about to embark on a flavor-filled journey! Set it to cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. Go ahead, take a moment to revel in the anticipation.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, let the pressure naturally release for 5 to 10 minutes. It’s like giving our dish a little time to relax and soak up all those delicious flavors before the big reveal.
- Open the lid of your Instant Pot and get ready for the grand finale! Ladle that mouthwatering beef teriyaki over a generous bowl of cooked rice. The aroma alone is enough to make your taste buds dance with joy!
- ow, let’s add some flair to our masterpiece! Top off your dish with some fresh sliced cucumbers and tomatoes. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also adds a refreshing crunch that takes this dish to the next level!
Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.
Meal Prep and Pairing Tips
- Rice Varieties: While white rice is the classic pairing for beef teriyaki, you can mix things up by using brown rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Each variety brings its own unique texture and flavor to the dish.
- Side Salad: Pair your beef teriyaki with a simple side salad for added freshness and crunch. Mix together your favorite greens with some sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of sesame ginger dressing for a flavor-packed accompaniment.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Serve your beef teriyaki alongside a medley of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. You can quickly sauté broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots in a hot skillet with a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil for a delicious and nutritious side dish.
- Asian Slaw: For a refreshing twist, serve your beef teriyaki with a side of Asian slaw. Shred cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, and toss them with a tangy sesame ginger dressing for a crunchy and flavorful accompaniment.
- Fresh Fruit: Round out your meal with some fresh fruit for dessert. Sliced pineapple, mango, or watermelon make a sweet and refreshing way to end your meal on a high note.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While lean beef stew meat works well in this recipe, you can also use other cuts like flank steak, sirloin, or even beef chuck. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the cut you choose.
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can still make this recipe on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. Simply follow the same instructions, adjusting the cooking time and method as needed.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of crushed pineapple?
Of course! Fresh pineapple will add a wonderful burst of flavor to the dish. Simply chop it into small pieces and use it in place of the crushed pineapple. You may want to adjust the sweetness to taste by adding a bit of honey or brown sugar if needed.
Instant Pot Pineapple Beef Teriyaki
Equipment
Ingredients
Optional Sides
Instructions
Notes
Nutrition