Name: Quick & Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred); 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 cups cooked white or brown rice; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, for garnish

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This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a fast and flavorful dish that brings bold, sweet-and-savory Korean flavors to the table in under 30 minutes. Made with ground beef, garlic, ginger, and a soy-based sauce, it’s served over warm rice and topped with green onions or sesame seeds for a quick meal that feels both satisfying and homemade.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how incredibly quick this recipe is—perfect for busy weeknights when I want something tasty without spending too much time in the kitchen. It’s made with basic ingredients I usually have on hand, and the flavor is amazing. The balance of sweet, salty, and spicy is irresistible, and I can easily adjust it to fit my taste. Plus, it’s a hit with everyone at home. Quick & Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Garlic, minced
Fresh ginger, minced
Brown sugar
Soy sauce
Sesame oil
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
Green onions, chopped
Sesame seeds, for garnish

Directions

I start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks.
Once the beef is mostly cooked, I add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Then, I stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
I let everything simmer together for a few minutes so the flavors really soak into the meat.
Finally, I spoon the beef mixture over a bowl of warm rice and top with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 5 minutes to prep and just 15 minutes to cook, so I can have a full meal ready in about 20 minutes total.

Variations

I sometimes swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
For extra veggies, I stir in chopped spinach, shredded carrots, or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking.
I use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice if I’m keeping things low-carb.
I add a fried egg on top for a more filling and authentic Korean-style bowl.

Storage/Reheating

I keep leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet or microwave until heated through. It still tastes just as good the next day. Quick & Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it in advance and store it in the fridge. It reheats well and makes a great meal prep option.

Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?

Absolutely. I like using low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness, especially if I’m adding other salty ingredients.

What kind of rice works best?

I usually use jasmine or basmati rice, but any cooked white or brown rice works well. Even quinoa or cauliflower rice can be used for a different twist.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s mildly spicy from the red pepper flakes, but I adjust the amount based on how spicy I want it. I also leave them out entirely when making it for kids.

Can I freeze Korean Ground Beef?

Yes, I let it cool completely and store it in freezer-safe bags or containers. It freezes well for up to 2 months. I thaw it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

This Quick & Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl is one of my go-to meals when I need something fast, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s flexible, family-friendly, and packed with that sweet-savory taste I crave. Whether I’m cooking for one or feeding a group, this recipe always hits the spot.