Print

Easy Flavor-Packed Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe for Quick Dinners

Korean ground beef bowl - featured image

A quick and easy Korean ground beef bowl with a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and umami-rich flavors, ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (preferably low-sodium)
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 23 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the rice according to package directions (about 15-20 minutes). Set aside and keep warm.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink (about 6-8 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed, leaving a little for flavor.
  4. Pour the sauce over the browned beef and stir well to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly and coat the meat evenly.
  5. Remove from heat. Serve the Korean ground beef over warm rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.

Notes

If sauce is too thin, simmer longer to thicken; if too thick, add a splash of water or broth. Avoid overcooking beef to keep it juicy. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Optional: add gochujang for spicy kick. Toast sesame seeds for better flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Korean ground beef bowl, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, Korean beef, savory beef bowl, meal prep