Name: Delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium); 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 tsp ground ginger; 2 cups cooked white rice; 2 green onions, sliced; 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

Why You’ll Love Delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe

This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a weeknight lifesaver. It requires minimal ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can serve it over rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps. The combination of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness gives the beef a rich, irresistible flavor that everyone at the table will enjoy. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and meal-prep friendly, making it perfect for busy households.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Garlic
Ginger
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Sesame oil
Crushed red pepper flakes
Cooked white rice
Green onions
Sesame seeds
Vegetable oil (optional, for cooking)

Directions

In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil if desired and cook the ground beef until fully browned.
Drain excess fat if needed.
Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the beef.
Serve the seasoned beef over bowls of hot cooked rice.
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of gochujang for extra heat.
Use ground turkey or chicken: For a lighter version, swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
Low-carb option: Serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.
Add vegetables: Stir in steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
Try quinoa: Replace white rice with quinoa for a protein-packed base.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
If the beef seems dry, add a splash of water or soy sauce while reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce.

Can I freeze the Korean ground beef?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked beef in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What type of rice works best?

Jasmine or short-grain white rice is ideal, but brown rice or cauliflower rice also work well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Cook the beef and store it separately from the rice until ready to serve.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

You can substitute crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.

What can I use instead of brown sugar?

Honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar can be used as a substitute.

Do I need to drain the beef after cooking?

If there is a lot of excess fat, it’s best to drain it to avoid a greasy texture.

What’s the best way to add vegetables?

Add quick-cooking vegetables like shredded carrots or spinach during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking the beef.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. This recipe scales easily—just double the ingredients for more servings.

What garnishes go well with this dish?

Chopped green onions, sesame seeds, sliced chili peppers, or a drizzle of sriracha all work wonderfully.

Conclusion

This Delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that’s sure to become a staple in your weekly rotation. With minimal prep and maximum taste, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, casual lunches, or make-ahead meals. Customize it with your favorite sides and toppings to make it your own, and enjoy a satisfying dish that’s both comforting and crave-worthy.