I’m Grace, the cook, the writer, and the soul behind Homely Tasty. The first time I made a Korean Ground Beef Bowl, I was standing in my cozy kitchen, staring at a single pound of ground beef. It was one of those evenings when I needed something fast but satisfying, the kind of meal that doesn’t demand much but gives so much in return.
So, I tossed together soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, and a bit of sesame oil. Within minutes, the air filled with that irresistible aroma; a mix of sweet, salty, and savory that felt like comfort in a bowl. It reminded me of Nonna’s belief that good food doesn’t have to be fancy; it just needs care.
This dish became my go-to weeknight favorite, right alongside classics like my Chinese Beef and Broccoli. It’s simple, flavorful, and ready before you can even set the table.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Korean-style ground beef bowl hits that perfect balance between convenience and flavor. It’s the meal you turn to when you’re tired but still want something home-cooked. The sauce, a rich blend of soy, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, clings beautifully to the beef, making every bite satisfying.
What makes it even better is its versatility. You can serve it over jasmine rice, spoon it into lettuce wraps, or pair it with noodles for a twist. If you enjoy this kind of quick comfort meal, you’ll also love my Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles, another flavor-packed recipe that takes minimal effort.
This beef bowl is budget-friendly, reheats like a dream, and tastes even better the next day.
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Korean Ground Beef Bowl
This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick, easy, and flavorful 20-minute dinner made with savory ground beef, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
2 tbsp sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp grated ginger
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 cups cooked white rice
2 green onions, sliced
1 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Stir in minced garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl, then pour into the skillet.
5. Stir well and simmer for 2–3 minutes until sauce slightly thickens.
6. Serve the beef over rice, topped with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
For a leaner version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Add vegetables like shredded carrots or bell peppers for color and crunch.
This Korean-inspired ground beef bowl reheats beautifully and is ideal for meal prep.
To make it spicy, add a spoonful of gochujang or extra red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 415
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make your Korean Ground Beef Rice Bowl:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
For a wholesome twist, try pairing it with my Smothered Chicken and Rice on another night; both recipes make excellent use of pantry staples and minimal prep.
How to Make It
Making this Korean-inspired beef bowl is straightforward and fast, here’s how:
- Cook the beef: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add aromatics: Stir in garlic and ginger and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Make the sauce: Whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes together, then pour into the pan. Stir well so the beef soaks up all the flavor.
- Simmer and serve: Let the sauce bubble for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Serve over rice, top with green onions and sesame seeds.
That’s it, a restaurant-quality meal in less than 20 minutes. If you’re craving another rice-based meal, my Street Corn Chicken Rice is another quick favorite that brings vibrant flavors to your table.
Tips and Variations
- Make it lighter: Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat without losing flavor.
- Spice it up: Stir in a spoonful of gochujang or sriracha for a spicier version.
- Add crunch: Toss in carrots, cabbage, or snap peas right before serving.
- Low-carb version: Serve it over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini.
- Make-ahead magic: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days; perfect for meal prep.
If you love globally inspired comfort dishes, you’ll appreciate my Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe; another easy, saucy favorite made with simple ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Korean Ground Beef Bowl ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the beef and sauce, store them separately from rice, and reheat before serving. The flavor deepens as it sits.
What can I serve with it?
It pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, a fried egg, or even a fresh cucumber salad.
How can I make it spicier?
Add a spoonful of Korean chili paste or more crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Can I use other meats?
Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives work well.
Final Thoughts
The Korean Ground Beef Bowl is proof that comfort doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. It’s quick, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable, a staple in my weeknight rotation. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of Nonna’s quiet wisdom: “The best meals are made with heart, not haste.” So the next time you need something warm, satisfying, and ready in minutes, give this dish a try.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
