Name: Delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80% lean); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); 2 green onions, sliced; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking); 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste) – optional for extra spice; 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced (for garnish); 1 boiled egg (for garnish, optional)

Jump to Recipe·5 from 1 review

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re craving bold, savory flavors but don’t have much time to cook, this Delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl is the perfect solution! It’s a quick and easy dish packed with the sweet and savory taste of Korean-inspired bulgogi-style ground beef. This recipe combines tender ground beef, a tangy and slightly sweet sauce, and a bed of fluffy rice—making it a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s customizable, full of flavor, and takes just about 20 minutes from start to finish. Plus, the recipe can be adjusted to your taste, so you can easily make it your own!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
2 green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste) – optional for extra spice
1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced (for garnish)
1 boiled egg (for garnish, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the beef.
Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the gochujang for extra heat if desired.
Combine beef and sauce: Pour the sauce over the cooked beef in the skillet and stir well to coat. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken and let the flavors meld together.
Prepare the rice: While the beef is simmering, spoon the cooked rice into serving bowls.
Assemble the bowls: Spoon the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the rice. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, cucumber, and a boiled egg (if using).
Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious, savory flavors of this Korean-inspired beef bowl!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Protein Options: You can swap out ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different protein. Even ground tofu or tempeh would work well for a vegetarian option.
Spicy Kick: If you love spice, you can add extra gochujang or sprinkle some chili flakes on top.
Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture for more flavor and nutrition.
Rice Alternatives: Use brown rice for a healthier option, or try cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe container for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different protein instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can use ground chicken, turkey, or pork for a lighter version, or tofu for a vegetarian option.

2. Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe is mildly spicy due to the optional gochujang and red pepper flakes. You can adjust the heat level by omitting the spicy ingredients or adding more, depending on your preference.

3. Can I make this dish without rice?

Absolutely! You can serve this Korean ground beef mixture over noodles, in lettuce wraps, or with steamed vegetables for a low-carb option.

4. What is gochujang, and can I substitute it?

Gochujang is a Korean chili paste that adds depth and heat to dishes. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with sriracha or another spicy sauce, though the flavor will be slightly different.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked beef mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.

6. Can I use brown sugar substitutes?

You can use coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup as alternatives to brown sugar. Keep in mind that the flavor may slightly change, but it will still be delicious.

7. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat and serve over freshly cooked rice when you’re ready to eat.

8. What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is delicious on its own but pairs well with sautéed vegetables, kimchi, or a simple side salad.

9. Can I use regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium soy sauce?

Yes, but keep in mind that regular soy sauce has more salt, so you may want to adjust the amount of added salt to taste.

10. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and ensure your gochujang is also gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl is the perfect meal for when you want something quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. The savory, slightly sweet sauce complements the tender ground beef, while the rice makes it a satisfying and filling meal. It’s a customizable dish, allowing you to adjust the heat and add your favorite toppings. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-worthy meal at home in no time! Try this recipe and enjoy the delicious flavors of Korean cuisine in the comfort of your own kitchen.