If you’re hunting for a simple yet impressive dinner, Ninja Foodi Sweet Teriyaki Beef Tips are about to become your new go-to recipe. Imagine bite-sized sirloin tips, bathed in a glossy teriyaki glaze that’s perfectly balanced between sweet and savory, all ready in under an hour thanks to the magic of your Ninja Foodi. This mouthwatering dish brings together tender beef, a homemade teriyaki sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh garnishes, guaranteeing a meal that’ll have everyone rushing to the table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or wowing a few friends, this recipe is as easy as it is memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these staple ingredients and you’ll be amazed at the flavors they build together. Each plays its own unique role, from tenderizing the beef to sweetening up the sauce and giving the dish its signature shine.
- Beef sirloin tips (1 ½ pounds, bite-sized): The star of the show—sirloin tips turn incredibly juicy and tender in the Ninja Foodi.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps with browning and gives the beef a beautiful sear.
- Low-sodium beef broth (1 cup): Adds depth and keeps everything moist while pressure cooking.
- Teriyaki sauce (1/2 cup): The recognizable base of that irresistible sweet-savory glaze.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Boosts the sweetness and helps create a silky sauce.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Rounds out the umami edge and intensifies the richness.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a gentle tang to balance the sweetness.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Brings that classic aromatic kick, infusing every bite.
- Fresh ginger, grated (1 teaspoon): Lifts the sauce with warmth and bright flavor.
- Cornstarch + water slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water): Thickens up the sauce to that perfect, glossy finish.
- Sesame seeds (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds crunch and a nutty note for presentation and flavor.
- Sliced green onions (for garnish): Delivers color and fresh zing right at the end.
How to Make Ninja Foodi Sweet Teriyaki Beef Tips
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Start by turning your Ninja Foodi to the Sauté setting. Pour in the olive oil and let it warm up until shimmering. Tumble in those bite-sized sirloin tips, working in batches if needed so you don’t crowd the pot. Sear the beef for about 5 to 7 minutes, moving the pieces occasionally until every side has a rich brown crust. This step locks in that savory flavor and sets the stage for ultra-juicy results.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
While the beef is searing, grab a mixing bowl and whisk together beef broth, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. This combo delivers the perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and umami-rich notes that define Ninja Foodi Sweet Teriyaki Beef Tips.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
Pour your freshly whisked sauce over the sautéed beef in the pot. Secure the lid, double-check that the valve is set to Seal, and select Pressure Cook on High for 15 minutes. This is where the Ninja Foodi works its magic, transforming those beef tips into melt-in-your-mouth bites, all bathed in fragrant teriyaki goodness.
Step 4: Natural Release and Thicken
When the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes; then carefully do a quick release for any remaining steam. Switch the Ninja Foodi back to Sauté mode. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and allow the sauce to bubble for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Watch as the mixture thickens into that signature, glossy coating you know and love from your favorite takeout.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Spoon the beef tips and thickened teriyaki sauce over fluffy white rice or your grain of choice. Sprinkle generously with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a final garnish. Step back and admire your work—you’ve just made Ninja Foodi Sweet Teriyaki Beef Tips that look (and taste!) like they came from your top Asian-inspired restaurant.
How to Serve Ninja Foodi Sweet Teriyaki Beef Tips
Garnishes
The finishing touches truly set this dish apart. A shower of toasted sesame seeds and a scattering of fresh green onions heighten both the flavors and the presentation. For extra color and a bit of heat, you might also add a pinch of red pepper flakes or even thinly sliced chilies.
Side Dishes
Ninja Foodi Sweet Teriyaki Beef Tips absolutely shine when served over steamed jasmine or brown rice, letting that luscious sauce soak right in. For a lighter meal, consider pairing with sautéed snap peas, roasted broccoli, or crisp Asian slaw—these sides add crunch and freshness to contrast the rich, sticky beef.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get playful with your plating! Pile these beef tips into lettuce cups for a hand-held appetizer, or serve atop a colorful bed of stir-fried veggies for a complete, single-bowl meal. You can even skewer them with bamboo picks for party-friendly teriyaki beef bites; everyone will love the finger-food twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ninja Foodi Sweet Teriyaki Beef Tips are a lifesaver for busy nights! Allow everything to cool, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerated, they’ll stay delicious and safe for up to 4 days—perfect for work lunches or an effortless second dinner.
Freezing
If you want to meal-prep or save a batch for later, these beef tips freeze beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers (with a bit of extra sauce to keep things juicy), label, and stash in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat Ninja Foodi Sweet Teriyaki Beef Tips, gently warm them on the stovetop in a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot and bubbly. If the sauce has thickened too much, splash in a tablespoon or two of water to loosen things up. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While sirloin tips offer lovely tenderness, you can use flank steak or even pre-cut stew beef. For tougher cuts, simply add an extra 5 minutes to the pressure cooking time to get that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
How sweet is the sauce?
This recipe yields a beautifully balanced sauce—noticeably sweet, but never overwhelming. If you prefer it less sweet, you can reduce the brown sugar to 2 tablespoons, or leave it as-is for that classic teriyaki taste.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap out the soy sauce and teriyaki sauce for gluten-free versions (tamari is a great option), and double-check your other packaged ingredients. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free!
What can I use instead of rice vinegar?
If you don’t have rice vinegar on hand, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar makes a fine substitute. The goal is to keep a gentle acid element that freshens up the sauce.
Is it possible to double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double Ninja Foodi Sweet Teriyaki Beef Tips to feed a crowd—just make sure not to fill your Ninja Foodi past the max fill line. Pressure cooking time remains the same.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Ninja Foodi Sweet Teriyaki Beef Tips enough for anyone seeking a fun, flavor-packed meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight but fancy enough for company. Don’t be surprised when they vanish faster than you can say “seconds!” Give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a little homemade teriyaki bliss.
