Name: Delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 4 green onions, chopped (divided); Cooked white or brown rice, for serving; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional); Steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach (for serving)

A flavorful and speedy dinner made with savory-sweet ground beef, garlic, ginger, and a touch of spice — served over steamed rice and ready in just 20 minutes. I find this dish perfect for busy weeknights when I want something hearty yet easy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb lean ground beef

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger

1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

4 green onions, chopped (divided)

Cooked white or brown rice, for serving

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach (for serving)

Directions

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. I cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula for about 5-6 minutes. I drain any excess fat if needed.

Next, I add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and stir frequently for about 1 minute.

In a small bowl, I whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and rice vinegar.

I pour this sauce mixture into the skillet with the beef and stir well to coat. Letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes thickens the sauce slightly.

I stir in half of the chopped green onions, then remove the skillet from the heat.

To serve, I spoon the beef over rice and garnish with the remaining green onions and sesame seeds. I often add a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for extra veggies.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 390 kcal per serving

Variations

Sometimes I swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. I like to toss in stir-fried bell peppers, shredded carrots, or snap peas for added crunch and color. For a low-carb version, I serve it over cauliflower rice. And when I’m craving more heat, I double the red pepper flakes or drizzle on some sriracha.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I use the microwave or warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. It also freezes well for up to 2 months; I just thaw and reheat as needed.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

I usually add more red pepper flakes or a squirt of sriracha to turn up the heat.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, I often switch to ground turkey or even ground chicken for a lighter alternative.

What type of rice works best for this recipe?

I prefer jasmine or short-grain white rice, but brown rice or even cauliflower rice work well too.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. I prepare the beef mixture in advance and reheat when ready to serve. It makes great meal prep.

Is it necessary to use fresh ginger?

While fresh ginger gives the best flavor, I sometimes use ground ginger in a pinch. I use about 1/4 teaspoon as a substitute.

Conclusion

This Korean ground beef bowl has quickly become one of my go-to meals for busy days. It’s flavorful, fast, and flexible enough to suit any preference. I love how it transforms simple ingredients into something so satisfying. It’s a dish I come back to again and again.

Delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and timing

Variations

Storage/Reheating