Easy & Flavorful Korean Ground Beef Bowl – A Quick

Looking for a quick, budget-friendly, and incredibly flavorful meal? This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is the perfect solution! Made with savory and slightly sweet ground beef, served over warm rice, and topped with fresh garnishes, this dish comes together in just 20 minutes. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that delivers restaurant-quality flavors without the hassle. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, this dish is a must-try!

Save

Ingredients for Korean Ground Beef Bowl

For the Beef:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste) or ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice Base:

• 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati works best)

Optional Toppings:

• 1 green onion, finely sliced
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ½ cup cucumber slices
• 1 fried or soft-boiled egg (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Small bowl (for sauce)
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Rice

1. If you haven’t already, cook 2 cups of rice according to package instructions. Keep warm while preparing the beef.

2. Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, gochujang (or red pepper flakes), rice vinegar, and black pepper. Set aside.

3. Cook the Beef

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the prepared sauce and mix well, allowing the beef to absorb the flavors. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide the warm cooked rice into serving bowls.
2. Spoon the flavorful Korean beef mixture over the rice.
3. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, shredded carrots, and cucumber slices.
4. Optionally, top with a fried or soft-boiled egg for extra richness.

Save

Expert Tips for the Perfect Korean Ground Beef Bowl

• Use freshly grated ginger and garlic for the best flavor—pre-minced versions don’t pack the same punch.
• Adjust spice levels by adding more or less gochujang or red pepper flakes.
• For extra depth, let the beef simmer for a few extra minutes to absorb all the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the beef – Keep an eye on it and stir frequently to prevent drying out.
• Using high-sodium soy sauce – Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to avoid an overly salty dish.
• Skipping the toppings – Green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh veggies enhance both flavor and texture.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve in bowl-style plating with rice on one side and beef on the other.
• Top with a fried egg for a more traditional Korean-style presentation.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storage:

• Store leftover beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep rice and toppings separate for the best texture when reheating.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Heat in short 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it healthier: Swap white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute ground beef with crumbled tofu or cooked lentils.
• Low-carb alternative: Serve over spiralized zucchini or lettuce wraps.

What to Serve with Korean Ground Beef Bowl

• Kimchi for a tangy, probiotic-rich side.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or bok choy.
• Miso soup or a light Asian-style salad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! The beef can be made in advance and stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze the cooked beef?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What if I don’t have gochujang?

You can use sriracha or extra red pepper flakes for spice, though gochujang adds a unique depth of flavor.

Conclusion

This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it’s a go-to dish you’ll want to make again and again. Try it today and share your thoughts! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes.

Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 480 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings).

Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Serves: 4

Print