Quick & Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe

Introduction

This Quick & Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a delicious weeknight meal that comes together in minutes. With savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, it’s perfect served over rice and topped with fresh veggies for a satisfying dinner.

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 tsp 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 heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Step 2: Add the garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Let everything simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors can soak in.
4. Step 4: Serve hot over cooked rice and top with your favorite veggies, sesame seeds, or green onions.

Tips & Variations

• Make it meal prep–friendly by doubling the batch and storing portions in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully!
• Try adding a fried egg on top for an extra layer of richness.
• Use fresh garlic and ginger if possible—they make a noticeable difference in flavor.

Storage

Store leftover beef and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.

Quick & Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 117 reviews

This Quick & Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight meal. Featuring lean ground beef simmered with garlic, ginger, and a sweet-savory sauce of brown sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil, it’s served over rice and topped with fresh veggies and sesame seeds. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal dish for meal prepping or a simple, comforting dinner.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 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 if you prefer)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)

Optional Toppings

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

Instructions

1. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish light.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger (or ground ginger) to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about one minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant and golden, enhancing the flavors.
3. Add the sauce ingredients: Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Reduce the heat slightly and let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Prepare to serve: Spoon the hot beef mixture over 2 cups of cooked rice of your choice, whether white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
5. Add toppings and enjoy: Garnish with optional toppings such as chopped green onions, sesame seeds, shredded carrots, and cucumber slices for added texture and freshness. Serve immediately for the best taste.

Notes

• Make it meal prep friendly by doubling the recipe and storing portions in the fridge for up to 4 days; it reheats well.
• Add a fried egg on top for extra richness and a touch of creaminess.
• Fresh garlic and ginger significantly improve the aroma and depth of flavor.

Keywords: Korean ground beef bowl, quick Korean recipe, easy weeknight dinner, Korean beef, ground beef bowl, Korean rice bowl