Why You’ll Love Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe
This recipe comes together in about 25 minutes, making it ideal for hectic schedules. The ingredients are simple and pantry-friendly, yet the flavor is rich and satisfying with the perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and nutty notes. It’s also highly customizable, allowing you to add vegetables, adjust spice levels, or swap the protein to suit your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or preparing lunches for the week, this bowl is dependable, filling, and easy to scale.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended for flavor)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 to 2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, sliced
4 cups cooked white or brown rice
Optional toppings: sesame seeds, sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, steamed broccoli, kimchi, fried egg, red pepper flakes
Directions
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Cook the rice according to package instructions so it is ready when the beef finishes cooking.
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Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if necessary.
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Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
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Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors blend and the sauce slightly thickens.
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Remove from heat and stir in the sliced green onions.
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To assemble, divide the cooked rice among bowls and spoon the seasoned beef mixture over the top. Add your preferred toppings and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 bowls
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the beef.
Add vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms while cooking the meat for extra nutrition.
For a spicy kick, mix in red pepper flakes or a spoonful of Korean chili paste.
Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a lower-carbohydrate option.
Top with a fried or soft-boiled egg for extra richness and protein.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover beef and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating. You can also reheat the beef in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
The cooked beef can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is excellent for meal prep. Prepare the beef and rice in advance and store them separately until ready to serve.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works well and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
Is this dish spicy?
The base recipe is mild. You can easily add spice with chili flakes or chili paste if desired.
What type of rice works best?
White jasmine rice, basmati rice, or brown rice all work well. Choose according to your texture and flavor preference.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Simply use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari alternative.
How do I keep the beef from drying out?
Avoid overcooking and allow the sauce to simmer just long enough to coat the meat. Using 80/20 ground beef also helps maintain moisture.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely. Broccoli, shredded carrots, spinach, and snap peas are great additions.
How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?
Stored properly in airtight containers, leftovers will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze the entire bowl?
It’s best to freeze the beef separately from the rice for better texture when reheated.
What toppings pair well with this bowl?
Sesame seeds, sliced cucumbers, green onions, shredded carrots, kimchi, and a fried egg are all delicious additions.
Conclusion
This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a simple yet deeply flavorful meal that delivers comfort and convenience in every bite. With minimal prep and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing meals for the week, this dish offers satisfying flavor with very little effort.
