When time is short but cravings are strong, this Korean Ground Beef Bowl is my go-to solution. It delivers all the bold, savory flavors inspired by Korean cuisine garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness in just 25 minutes, using simple pantry ingredients.
Juicy ground beef cooked in a glossy, flavorful sauce is served over fluffy rice and finished with fresh toppings for balance and crunch. It’s comforting, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep lunches that actually taste exciting.
Fast cooking, big flavor, and zero stress that’s a win in my book.
Why This Korean Ground Beef Bowl Is a Favorite
This recipe works so well because it’s:
- Ready in about 25 minutes
- Budget-friendly and filling
- Naturally gluten-free adaptable
- Perfect for meal prep
- Loved by both kids and adults
Simple ingredients, bold payoff.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Beef
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Bowls
- 2 cups cooked white or jasmine rice
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup cucumber slices
Optional Toppings
- Green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
- Fried egg or sautéed spinach
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Cook rice according to package instructions and keep warm.
Step 2
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 3
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 4
Add garlic and ginger to the skillet. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5
Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar. Mix well.
Step 6
Reduce heat and simmer 5–7 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and coats the beef.
Step 7
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 8
Assemble bowls: add rice, top with beef, and finish with vegetables and toppings.
Serve hot.
Chef André’s Tips for the Best Beef Bowl
- Use medium heat to avoid burning sugar
- Drain excess grease for cleaner flavor
- Taste before adding salt soy sauce is salty
- Serve rice hot for best texture
Small tweaks make it shine.
Easy Variations to Try
- Use ground turkey instead of beef
- Add broccoli or snap peas
- Make it spicy with chili paste
- Serve over cauliflower rice
This bowl adapts easily.
What to Serve with Korean Ground Beef Bowls
It’s a complete meal, but pairs well with:
- Kimchi-style vegetables
- Simple cucumber salad
- Steamed edamame
Balanced and satisfying.
Storage and Reheating
- Store beef and rice separately up to 4 days
- Reheat gently in skillet or microwave
For safe handling of cooked beef, follow USDA Food Safety guidelines:
https://www.usda.gov/food-safety
FAQ – Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Is this dish spicy?
No, but easy to add heat.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, perfect for meal prep.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, when using tamari.
Is it kid-friendly?
Very mild, slightly sweet flavor.
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving
- Calories: ~520 kcal
- Protein: 34 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
Values vary by rice and toppings.
Final Words from Chef André
This Korean Ground Beef Bowl proves that fast dinners can still be exciting and full of flavor. It’s cozy, customizable, and guaranteed to earn a spot in your weekly rotation.
If you try it, tell me extra garlic or extra sauce?
Chef André 👨🍳