Print

Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe Easy 30-Minute Dinner Idea

Korean ground beef bowl recipe - featured image

A quick and flavorful Korean ground beef bowl that combines savory, sweet, and spicy flavors in a simple, protein-packed meal ready in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably lean 85/15)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar (packed light)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, minced
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 4 cups (720g) cooked white rice (jasmine or short-grain)
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Cook 4 cups (720g) of white rice according to package instructions (about 20 minutes). Set aside and keep warm.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, minced garlic (3 cloves), and minced ginger (1 tablespoon).
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound (450g) ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked beef. Stir well to coat evenly. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the meat.
  5. While the beef simmers, slice 2 green onions thinly and toast 1 tablespoon sesame seeds in a dry pan over low heat until golden (about 2 minutes).
  6. Spoon cooked rice into bowls, then top generously with the saucy Korean ground beef. Sprinkle with green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
  7. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

If sauce is too salty, add a splash of water to mellow it out. If too sweet, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Avoid over-browning the beef to prevent dryness. Toast sesame seeds just before serving for best flavor. Cornstarch mixed with water can be added to thicken sauce if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: Korean ground beef bowl, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, savory sweet spicy, Korean beef, sesame oil, soy sauce