Korean Ground Beef Bowl

A Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the bold flavors of Korean cuisine to your table with minimal effort. Made with savory and slightly sweet ground beef, served over warm rice, and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses ground beef, an affordable protein, with simple pantry ingredients.
• Flavorful – A balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors with a hint of spice.
• Customizable – Easily adjustable spice level and protein swaps.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add Aromatics – Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Prepare the Sauce – In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ground ginger, crushed red pepper, and black pepper.
4. Simmer the Beef – Pour the sauce over the beef and stir well. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Assemble the Bowl – Serve the beef over a bowl of warm white rice. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and shredded carrots if using.
6. Enjoy! – Serve immediately and enjoy a flavorful Korean-inspired meal.

Recipe Variations

• Make It Spicier – Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
• Use Different Protein – Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or tofu.
• Vegetable Boost – Add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve over cauliflower rice instead of white rice.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing – Freeze the cooked beef in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating – Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat when ready to serve.

What type of rice works best?

Jasmine rice or short-grain white rice works best, but brown rice or cauliflower rice are great alternatives.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding broccoli, spinach, or snap peas for a nutrient boost.

What can I serve with a Korean Ground Beef Bowl?

Pair it with kimchi, steamed vegetables, or a side of miso soup for a complete meal.

Is this dish spicy?

The spice level is mild, but you can adjust it by adding more red pepper flakes or gochujang.

Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?

Yes! Use about 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger for a more vibrant flavor.

How do I make it healthier?

Use lean ground beef, reduce the sugar, and serve over quinoa or brown rice.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use the sauté function for the beef, then simmer with the sauce for a few minutes.

What’s a good garnish besides green onions?

Try cilantro, crushed peanuts, or a fried egg for extra texture and flavor.

Conclusion

The Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a delicious, quick, and versatile dish that delivers big flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly dinner, meal prep option, or an easy way to enjoy Korean flavors at home, this recipe is a winner. Try it today and make it your own with custom toppings and sides!

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