Some nights call for a meal that’s fast, flavorful, and doesn’t require a long list of ingredients. This Korean ground beef bowl is just that — a simple, budget-friendly dinner with bold flavors. Sweet, savory, garlicky beef served over fluffy rice and topped with fresh garnish makes for a comforting bowl the whole family will love.
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or you’re just craving takeout-style food at home, this recipe is a keeper.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in about 20 minutes.
- Budget-Friendly – Uses simple ingredients you probably already have.
- Family-Friendly – Sweet and savory flavors everyone enjoys.
- Versatile – Serve with rice, noodles, or even lettuce wraps.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp fresh grated ginger (optional)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook beef. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add flavor. Stir in garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve. Spoon beef mixture over bowls of rice. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Tips for Success
- Rice options: Jasmine, basmati, or brown rice all work well.
- Meal prep: Cook beef mixture in advance and store for 3–4 days in the fridge.
- Make it lighter: Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Add veggies: Stir in carrots, zucchini, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
Variations
- Spicy Korean Beef Bowl – Add extra chili flakes or sriracha.
- Korean Beef Lettuce Wraps – Swap rice for crisp lettuce cups.
- Egg-Topped Bowl – Add a fried egg for extra richness.
FAQs – Korean Ground Beef Bowl
What can I serve with this besides rice?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken work well and make this dish lighter.
What can I serve with this besides rice?
Noodles, cauliflower rice, or lettuce wraps all pair well with the beef.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes. Cook the beef mixture, let cool, then freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
Can I make this less sweet?
Reduce the brown sugar to 1 tablespoon or substitute with honey.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Swap the beef for crumbled tofu or lentils and cook with the same sauce.
Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Spoon beef mixture over bowls of rice. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
From your stove to our hearts
share your delicious take!Final Thoughts
This Korean ground beef bowl is proof that quick dinners don’t have to be boring. With simple ingredients and bold flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you’re craving something cozy and satisfying.