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Quick & Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Caroline

Quick & Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl

A fast and flavorful weeknight dinner inspired by Korean cuisine. Lean ground beef is simmered in a savory-sweet soy sauce with garlic, ginger, and sesame oil, then served over rice and topped with fresh garnishes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
Calories: 390
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 3 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)
  • optional toppings: green onions, sesame seeds, shredded carrots, cucumber slices

Equipment

  • large skillet or wok
  • wooden spoon or spatula
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • rice cooker or saucepan

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  4. Serve the beef hot over cooked rice. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and your choice of vegetables.

Notes

For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and ginger rather than powdered. To make it a complete meal, add vegetables directly to the skillet during the final simmer. This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.