Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe
The Korean Ground Beef Bowl is the weeknight hero you didn’t know you needed: quick to make, deeply flavorful, and endlessly customizable. It’s a perfect mashup of savory, sweet, and a touch of heat, all piled over warm rice and finished with fresh garnishes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just craving that irresistible combo of flavors, this dish will become a regular on your table in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a handful of straightforward ingredients, each one pulling its weight to create the perfect harmony of bold Korean-inspired flavors. These essentials guarantee real depth, color, and just the right texture in every bite.
- Ground beef (1 lb, 80/20 blend): The star of the show, bringing savory richness and satisfying protein.
- Soy sauce (¼ cup): Adds that classic umami punch and helps form the flavorful sauce base.
- Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Balances the saltiness with a caramelized hint of sweetness.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Gives a nutty aroma and instantly recognizable Asian flavor.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): For an intense, aromatic backbone that elevates the beef.
- Fresh ginger, grated (1 teaspoon): Zesty heat and brightness that wakes up the whole dish.
- Red pepper flakes (1 teaspoon, adjustable): These add gentle to bold heat, depending on your preference.
- Green onions, sliced (2, for garnish): Fresh crunch and a pop of color to finish things off.
- Broccoli florets (1 cup, optional): For extra color, nutrition, and satisfying bite.
- Cooked rice (2 cups, white or brown): Fluffy rice is the perfect canvas to soak up all the savory-sweet goodness.
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional): Just a sprinkle adds delightful crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it browns. You’ll want the beef to be crumbly and cooked through, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat if you prefer your bowl a bit lighter!
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Next comes the magic—stir in minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. These two pack your Korean Ground Beef Bowl with deep flavor and tantalizing aroma. Sauté the mixture for about 2 minutes until your kitchen smells absolutely irresistible.
Step 3: Stir in Sauce
Pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. As everything simmers together, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a glossy sauce that clings to every bit of beef. Let it bubble on medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
If you’re using broccoli, toss the florets into the skillet now. Stir frequently and let them cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, just until tender but still vibrant green. This adds fresh color and a nutritious crunch to your Korean Ground Beef Bowl.
Step 5: Prepare Rice
If your rice isn’t already cooked, now’s the time! Follow the package directions for perfect, fluffy grains. White rice brings classic comfort, while brown rice lends extra texture and fiber.
Step 6: Serve
To assemble, spoon a generous helping of warm rice into bowls and pile the saucy ground beef mixture on top. Each bite is jam-packed with flavor and perfectly balanced between sweet, salty, and savory notes.
Step 7: Garnish
Finish your masterpiece by sprinkling sliced green onions and sesame seeds over each bowl. This last step adds bright color, lively crunch, and a subtle toasty note that makes the Korean Ground Beef Bowl extra special.
How to Serve Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Garnishes
A finishing touch can make your Korean Ground Beef Bowl truly shine. Sliced green onions add a peppery bite and fresh color, while a sprinkle of sesame seeds provides a toasty crunch. For an even bolder look and taste, feel free to add thin slices of red chili or a quick drizzle of extra sesame oil.
Side Dishes
This bowl is a superstar all by itself, but a few sides can turn dinner into a real feast. Try serving it with crisp cucumber salad, kimchi for a spicy tang, or even steamed edamame. All these options enhance the flavors and add refreshing contrast to your Korean Ground Beef Bowl.
Creative Ways to Present
Have fun with presentation! Scoop the beef mixture into lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist, or layer it over cauliflower rice to keep things light. You can even offer a build-your-own bowl bar with bowls of extra toppings so everyone gets their favorite combination.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, simply transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store the ground beef mixture and rice separately if possible—this keeps everything tasting fresh and prevents sogginess. Pop them in your fridge and enjoy for up to 4 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooled Korean Ground Beef Bowl filling in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When freezing, leave out the garnishes and rice; add those fresh after reheating for best taste and texture.
Reheating
Reheating is effortless: warm the beef mixture gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally so it heats evenly. The rice can be refreshed with a splash of water before microwaving, bringing it back to its fluffy self.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work perfectly in this recipe. Just keep in mind that they’re leaner, so you might want to add a splash more sesame oil for richness.
How spicy is this dish with the listed amount of red pepper flakes?
With a teaspoon of red pepper flakes, you’ll get a gentle warmth that enhances rather than overpowers. If you like it milder or dare to turn up the heat, simply adjust the amount to match your preference.
What’s the best rice to serve with a Korean Ground Beef Bowl?
Short-grain white rice is traditional, but jasmine or brown rice are fantastic alternatives. Brown rice adds a nutty bite and extra fiber, making the meal even more satisfying.
Can this be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap the soy sauce for gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos, ensuring all ingredients used are gluten-free. The rest of the recipe stays just as flavorful.
Is there a way to add more vegetables?
Of course! Stir in shredded carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, or spinach during the veggie step. The Korean Ground Beef Bowl is endlessly versatile, so feel free to load up on your favorites.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something big on taste but easy on effort, give this Korean Ground Beef Bowl a spot on your dinner rotation. It’s satisfying, family-friendly, and guaranteed to spark joy at the table—so grab those simple ingredients and treat yourself tonight!
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Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Kosher
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Korean ground beef bowl recipe that combines savory beef with a perfect blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, and aromatic spices, served over a bed of rice and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds for a delicious finishing touch.
Ingredients
Ground Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 blend for flavor)
Sauce:
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Aromatics:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Optional:
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 5–7 minutes).
- Add Aromatics: Drain excess fat if necessary, then add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
- Stir in Sauce: Pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Vegetables: If using, add broccoli florets to the skillet. Cook until tender, about 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Prepare Rice: While the beef cooks, prep your rice according to package instructions if not already cooked.
- Serve: In bowls, serve the cooked rice topped with the savory ground beef mixture.
- Garnish: Finish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added crunch and flavor boost.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Korean Ground Beef Bowl, Beef Bowl Recipe, Korean Beef Recipe
