Quick Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Name: Quick Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 4 green onions, chopped; Cooked rice or noodles, for serving; Sesame seeds; Additional green onions

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Quick Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It's flavorful, satisfying, and can be made in just a few minutes!

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2025-12-21T00:10:54.298Z

This Korean Ground Beef Bowl brings the flavors of Korea right to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a delicious meal in no time.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick preparation and cooking time
Savory and slightly sweet flavor profile
Versatile and can be served with rice or noodles

      

A Flavorful Korean Classic

Korean cuisine is renowned for its bold and vibrant flavors, and this Quick Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl is no exception. Combining savory soy sauce with the sweetness of brown sugar and the nutty aroma of sesame oil, this dish brings a taste of Korea right to your kitchen. It's a delightful way to enjoy the rich culinary traditions of Korea without spending hours in the kitchen.

The incorporation of garlic and ginger adds aromatic layers to the dish, enhancing its overall flavor profile. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe offers a simple yet satisfying approach to preparing a beloved Korean classic. In just a few minutes, you can have a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Customizable for Every Taste

One of the best aspects of this Korean Ground Beef Bowl is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or even a plant-based alternative. The flavor profile remains robust, ensuring that everyone at the table will enjoy their meal.

Feel free to add extra vegetables to the mix, such as bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli. Not only do they enhance the nutritional value, but they also add a colorful touch to your bowl. You can also modify the level of spice by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes, making it a great option for families with varying tolerance for heat.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Quick Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl is an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can easily double the recipe and portion it out for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Store the beef mixture in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and simply reheat when you're ready to eat. Pair it with freshly cooked rice or noodles for a quick and convenient meal.

Additionally, this dish freezes well, making it a perfect candidate for those busy nights when cooking from scratch isn't an option. Just thaw, reheat, and serve! With its ease of preparation and delicious flavor, it's a meal you can rely on time and time again.

Ingredients

For the Beef Bowl

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
4 green onions, chopped
Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

For Garnish

Sesame seeds
Additional green onions

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the ground beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add the Sauce

Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Serve

Serve the beef mixture over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Enjoy your delicious Korean ground beef bowl!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Korean Ground Beef Bowl, consider serving it with a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables. These tangy accompaniments balance the savory flavors of the beef and add an exciting crunch to each bite. You can also offer a variety of toppings such as sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or even a fried egg for a traditional touch.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, serve with a side of spicy gochujang sauce. Drizzling this Korean chili paste on top of your bowl will enhance the flavor and provide an extra kick that spice lovers will appreciate.

Storage Tips

To maintain freshness, store any leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 3-4 days. If you'd like to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Portion the beef into manageable servings, seal them tightly, and label them with the date. When you're ready to use it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

When reheating, ensure that the beef is heated thoroughly to a safe temperature. You can use a microwave or stovetop for quick warming. If it appears dry, add a splash of water or broth to help revive the moisture while reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will make the dish leaner.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use diced tofu.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is delicious served over rice or noodles, and you can add steamed vegetables for a complete meal.