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Korean Ground Beef Bowl 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.

Ingredients

Scale

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