This Korean ground beef bowl is a simple yet flavorful dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. With perfectly seasoned beef, a touch of sweetness, and a hint of spice, it’s the perfect combination of savory and satisfying. Serve it over rice for an easy weeknight meal.
Why I Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The sweet and savory flavors blend beautifully with the garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- It’s budget-friendly and requires minimal ingredients.
- The recipe is versatile, allowing for substitutions and variations.
- It stores well, making it great for meal prep.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Soy sauce
- Brown sugar
- Sesame oil
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Red pepper flakes
- Green onions
- Cooked rice
- Sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
Directions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add garlic and ginger to the beef, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Pour the sauce over the beef and stir well.
- Let the beef simmer for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve over cooked rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a lighter option.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of white rice.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, shredded carrots, or zucchini for more texture and nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha for extra heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the beef mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
FAQs
How can I make this dish healthier?
I recommend using lean ground beef or swapping it for ground turkey. Reducing the sugar and serving it over cauliflower rice also makes it healthier.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply reheat and serve over fresh rice.
What can I serve with this Korean ground beef bowl?
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, kimchi, or a simple side salad.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and cook in a larger skillet to ensure even cooking.
What if I don’t have sesame oil?
You can use olive oil, but sesame oil adds an authentic depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate.
Conclusion
This Korean ground beef bowl is a lifesaver on busy days, offering a delicious, quick, and satisfying meal. Whether I make it for meal prep or a last-minute dinner, it’s always a hit. Try it today and enjoy a homemade take on a Korean classic!
Korean Ground Beef Bowl – Easy 20-Minute Dinner
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
Description
This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick and easy 20-minute meal packed with savory, slightly sweet flavors. Made with ground beef, garlic, ginger, and a rich soy-based sauce, this dish is served over fluffy rice for the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's budget-friendly, customizable, and absolutely delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (or ½ tsp ground ginger)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Drain excess grease and add garlic and ginger. Stir and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and stir well, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes.
- Remove from heat and mix in sliced green onions.
- Serve the beef over cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Make it spicier by adding more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
- Low-carb version: Swap white rice for cauliflower rice.
