Korean Ground Beef Bowl

A Flavorful and Quick Weeknight Meal

The Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a simple yet delicious dish that combines savory, sweet, and spicy flavors in one satisfying meal. Inspired by bulgogi, this dish takes all the mouthwatering elements of Korean barbecue and transforms them into a quick, budget-friendly meal that can be ready in under 30 minutes.

Served over a bed of fluffy rice and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re craving something flavorful but easy to prepare.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast & Easy: Ready in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner.
• Affordable Ingredients: Uses ground beef instead of expensive cuts, making it budget-friendly.
• Packed with Flavor: A perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.
• Versatile: Can be served over rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps.
• Great for Meal Prep: Stores well and reheats beautifully.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean recommended)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger (or 1 tsp fresh grated ginger)
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or short-grain recommended)
• Optional: 1/2 cup shredded carrots or thinly sliced bell peppers for extra veggies

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Instructions

1. Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Add Aromatics

Add the minced garlic and ground ginger to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, crushed red pepper flakes, and black pepper.

4. Combine & Simmer

Pour the sauce over the cooked beef and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Add Garnishes & Serve

Remove from heat and stir in chopped green onions. Serve over warm cooked rice, then sprinkle with sesame seeds.

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Variations & Substitutions

• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken – Swap the beef for a leaner option.
• Add Vegetables – Stir in shredded carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Make it Spicier – Increase red pepper flakes or add gochujang (Korean chili paste).
• Serve with Noodles – Try it over ramen, rice noodles, or even zucchini noodles.
• Make it Low-Carb – Serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.

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Servings & Cooking Time

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

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked beef in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this dish less salty?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount slightly. Adding extra vegetables or serving with more rice can also balance the saltiness.

Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?

Yes! Use 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger for a stronger, fresher flavor.

What type of rice pairs best with this dish?

Jasmine or short-grain white rice is ideal, but brown rice or cauliflower rice are great alternatives.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just double all ingredients, but use a large skillet to avoid overcrowding.

What can I add for extra crunch?

Try chopped peanuts, cashews, or water chestnuts for added texture.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes! Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep—store portions in meal containers and reheat as needed.

What other toppings go well with this dish?

Try a fried egg, kimchi, or a drizzle of sriracha for extra flavor.

Can I use a different protein?

Yes! Ground pork, turkey, or chicken all work well.

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Conclusion

The Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick, flavorful meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any night of the week. With its balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, this dish is a great alternative to takeout and can be customized to fit your preferences. Try it today and enjoy a satisfying, homemade meal in just 20 minutes!

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