Simple Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe

Looking for a quick, flavorful meal that comes together in under 30 minutes? This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is the perfect solution. With just a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious, slightly sweet, and savory dish over warm rice. Inspired by Korean bulgogi, this recipe delivers bold flavors without the need for marinating or specialty ingredients.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple ingredients that you probably already have.
• Budget-Friendly: Ground beef is an affordable alternative to traditional bulgogi beef cuts.
• Customizable: Easily adjust spice levels or add vegetables for extra nutrition.

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Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add Flavor: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes.
4. Combine: Pour the sauce over the beef, stirring to coat evenly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors blend.
5. Serve: Spoon the beef over warm rice and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

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Variations

• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition.
• Protein Swap: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a different twist.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.

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Servings & Timing

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

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Storage & Reheating

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

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FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

What type of rice works best?

Jasmine or short-grain white rice pairs best, but brown rice or cauliflower rice also work well.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground beef, reduce sugar, and add vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms.

Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?

Yes, substitute 1 teaspoon of fresh grated ginger for every 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

Omit it or use a neutral oil like avocado or olive oil, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives work great.

How do I make it less salty?

Use low-sodium soy sauce or dilute regular soy sauce with a bit of water.

Is this dish gluten-free?

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

What toppings go well with this dish?

Try kimchi, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, or a fried egg for extra flavor.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger pan to cook everything evenly.

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Conclusion

This Simple Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a fantastic way to enjoy Korean-inspired flavors without complicated ingredients or long prep times. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a last-minute dinner, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Try it with different toppings and variations to make it your own!

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