Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe

Introduction

This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. With a savory-sweet sauce and simple ingredients, it brings Korean-inspired taste to your dinner table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (lean)
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium if you prefer)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)
• Optional toppings: green onions, sesame seeds, shredded carrots, cucumber slices

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Step 2: Drain excess fat if necessary, then stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and ginger. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
3. Step 3: Serve the beef mixture over the cooked rice and garnish with your choice of optional toppings like green onions, sesame seeds, shredded carrots, or cucumber slices for added texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
• Add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice for extra tanginess.
• For a spicier kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add sriracha sauce.
• Include steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a balanced meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. For best texture, keep toppings separate and add fresh before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to make the dish gluten-free.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can cook the beef mixture in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to eat, reheat and serve over freshly cooked or reheated rice.

Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 73 reviews

This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick and flavorful dish featuring lean ground beef cooked in a savory and slightly sweet sauce with garlic, ginger, and a hint of chili. Served over rice and topped with fresh vegetables and sesame seeds, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that combines simplicity with authentic Korean flavors.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Korean

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (lean)
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)

Optional Toppings

• Green onions, sliced
• Sesame seeds
• Shredded carrots
• Cucumber slices

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Mince the garlic and ginger if using fresh. Cook your rice ahead of time or use leftover rice to save time.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sesame oil and then the ground beef. Cook, stirring to break the meat apart until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Flavorings: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic, ginger, brown sugar, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all flavors and simmer for another 3-5 minutes to let the sauce thicken and coat the beef.
4. Assemble Bowls: Spoon the cooked rice evenly into serving bowls. Top with the Korean ground beef mixture.
5. Add Toppings: Garnish with optional toppings such as sliced green onions, sesame seeds, shredded carrots, and cucumber slices for added freshness and texture.

Notes

• Use lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter and reduce excess grease.
• Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level according to your preference.
• Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative to traditional rice if desired.
• For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Leftover beef mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.

Keywords: Korean ground beef bowl, quick Korean recipe, easy weeknight meal, beef and rice bowl, Korean beef stir fry