Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick and flavorful dish made with sweet and savory ground beef served over a bed of rice and topped with fresh, vibrant garnishes. Inspired by the classic Korean dish bulgogi, this simplified version is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and easy to make.

What makes this dish special is the irresistible combination of flavors—garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil come together to create a caramelized glaze that clings to the beef. Pair it with steamed rice, crisp vegetables, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and you’ve got a balanced meal that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a delicious and versatile option.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Ingredients Overview

• Ground beef: The star of the dish, cooked until tender and coated in a sweet and savory sauce.
• Soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness to the beef.
• Brown sugar: Balances the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
• Aromatics: Garlic and ginger provide depth and a classic Korean flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (lean or extra lean)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice

Toppings (Optional)

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Shredded carrots
• Cucumber slices
• Fried egg

Directions

1. Cook the ground beef
   Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
2. Add the aromatics
   Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Make the sauce
   In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili flakes (if using). Pour the sauce over the cooked beef and stir to coat. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Assemble the bowls
   Divide the cooked rice into bowls. Top with the saucy ground beef and your favorite garnishes like green onions, sesame seeds, shredded carrots, and cucumber slices. Add a fried egg for an extra treat.
5. Serve
   Serve immediately and enjoy your Korean Ground Beef Bowl!

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

15 minutes

Total Time

25 minutes

Nutrition (per serving, ~4 servings)

• Calories: ~380
• Fat: ~15g
• Carbohydrates: ~38g
• Protein: ~23g

Expert Tips

• Use fresh aromatics: Fresh garlic and ginger are key to achieving authentic flavors.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar to 1 tablespoon.
• Rice options: Swap white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works great as a leaner alternative, though the flavor may be slightly lighter.

What vegetables pair well with this dish?
Shredded carrots, cucumbers, spinach, or sautéed zucchini are excellent options for adding freshness and crunch.

How do I store leftovers?
Store the beef and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Storing & Reheating

• Storing: Keep cooked beef and rice in separate airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Warm the beef in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or soy sauce if needed.

Substitutions & Variations

• Vegan option: Use crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat instead of beef and substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version.
• Spicy kick: Add gochujang (Korean chili paste) or sriracha for extra heat.
• Crunchy twist: Top with crispy fried onions or crushed peanuts for texture.

Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick and flavorful dish made with sweet and savory ground beef served over a bed of rice and topped with fresh, vibrant garnishes. Inspired by the classic Korean dish *bulgogi*, this simplified version is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and easy to make.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• - Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Ingredients

  

• - 1 pound ground beef lean or extra lean
• - 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• - 3 cloves garlic minced
• - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger minced
• - 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• - 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
• - 1 teaspoon chili flakes optional, for heat
• - 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• #### Toppings Optional
• - Sliced green onions
• - Sesame seeds
• - Shredded carrots
• - Cucumber slices
• - Fried egg

Instructions

 

• **Cook the ground beef**
• Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
• **Add the aromatics**
• Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
• **Make the sauce**
• In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili flakes (if using). Pour the sauce over the cooked beef and stir to coat. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
• **Assemble the bowls**
• Divide the cooked rice into bowls. Top with the saucy ground beef and your favorite garnishes like green onions, sesame seeds, shredded carrots, and cucumber slices. Add a fried egg for an extra treat.
• **Serve**
• Serve immediately and enjoy your Korean Ground Beef Bowl!