Korean Ground Beef Bowl

By  Olivia BexleyMay 9, 2025

A 20-Minute Dinner That’s Big on Flavor and Light on Effort

Thank you so much for stopping by! I don’t know about you, but there are days when I just can’t do a complicated dinner—and that’s exactly when this Korean Ground Beef Bowl swoops in to save the night. It’s fast, it’s packed with bold, savory-sweet flavor, and it’s made with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. We’re talking dinner on the table in 20 minutes or less, with leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping lunches for the week, or just trying to avoid another night of takeout, this bowl is your answer. Don’t forget to subscribe to get this recipe (and all my favorite quick dinners!) delivered right to your inbox!

Korean Ground Beef Bowl

What Is a Korean Ground Beef Bowl?

A Korean ground beef bowl is a simplified spin on the flavors of Korean BBQ—specifically, the sweet and savory beef you might find in bulgogi—served over a bed of fluffy rice with optional toppings like kimchi, cucumbers, or a runny fried egg. Instead of marinating and grilling sliced beef, this version uses ground beef, which cooks much faster and absorbs flavor beautifully. It’s seasoned with a garlicky soy-sesame sauce that’s lightly sweetened, and the whole thing comes together in one skillet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Quick and easy: Ready in 20 minutes from start to finish
One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor
Family-friendly: Sweet, savory, and not spicy (unless you want it to be!)
Meal prep star: Great for make-ahead lunches or freezer meals
Customizable: Add veggies, grains, or toppings to make it your own

This Korean ground beef bowl isn’t just easy—it’s comforting. It’s one of those meals where you take a bite, and the soy-sesame-garlic combo just hits every craving button.

What It Tastes Like

Bold, umami-rich flavor from soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil
A hint of sweetness from brown sugar (or honey)
A gentle heat from optional red pepper flakes
Juicy, tender beef that soaks up all the saucy goodness
All of it piled over hot rice with crisp garnishes? Absolute perfection.

Why Make Korean Beef Bowls at Home

This dish gives you total control over the ingredients—you can skip excess sugar, use low-sodium soy sauce, or swap in lean beef or ground turkey. Plus, you’re skipping the cost and salt of takeout without sacrificing flavor. It’s a fantastic way to introduce Korean-inspired flavors to your table in a super approachable way.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (85–90% lean)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (or 1/4 teaspoon ground)
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooked white rice, for serving

// Fill form function fillRecipeForm() { // Basic fields document.querySelector('input[name="title"]').value = "Korean Ground Beef Bowl"; document.querySelector('input[name="author_name"]').value = "iyma hernandes"; // Rich text editors const editorContent = { description: "A fast, flavorful 20-minute Korean-inspired dinner that’s big on sweet-salty-umami comfort and light on effort.", ingredients: "<ul><li>1 pound ground beef (85–90% lean)</li><li>3 cloves garlic, minced</li><li>1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce</li><li>2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)</li><li>1 tablespoon sesame oil</li><li>1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (or 1/4 teaspoon ground)</li><li>1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)</li><li>2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)</li><li>1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)</li><li>Cooked white rice, for serving</li></ul>", instructions: "<ol><li>In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.</li><li>Add garlic and ginger, cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.</li><li>In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Add to skillet.</li><li>Reduce heat and simmer 3–5 minutes, stirring until beef is coated and sauce thickens slightly.</li><li>Serve over hot rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Add optional toppings as desired.</li></ol>", notes: "Customize with your favorite toppings like kimchi, fried egg, or sliced cucumber. Makes great leftovers and freezes well." }; Object.entries(editorContent).forEach(([field, content]) => { if (window.tinyMCE && window.tinyMCE.get(`tasty-recipes-recipe-${field}`)) { window.tinyMCE.get(`tasty-recipes-recipe-${field}`).setContent(content); } }); // Time and details const details = { 'prep_time': '5 minutes', 'cook_time': '15 minutes', 'total_time': '20 minutes', 'yield': '4 servings', 'category': 'Main Dish', 'method': 'Stovetop', 'cuisine': 'Korean-Inspired', 'keywords': 'Korean ground beef bowl, easy dinner, 20-minute meal, rice bowl, bulgogi style' }; Object.entries(details).forEach(([field, value]) => { document.querySelector(`input[name="${field}"]`).value = value; }); // Diet document.querySelector('select[name="diet"]').value = 'No Specific Diet'; // Equipment const equipment = ['Large skillet or wok', 'Cutting board and knife', 'Measuring spoons and cups', 'Rice cooker or pot for cooking rice', 'Spatula']; const equipmentSelect = document.querySelector('select[name="tasty-links-equipment"]'); if (equipmentSelect) { equipment.forEach(item => { const option = Array.from(equipmentSelect.options).find(opt => opt.text === item); if (option) option.selected = true; }); const event = new Event('change'); equipmentSelect.dispatchEvent(event); } // Nutrition const nutrition = { 'serving_size': '1 bowl', 'calories': '420', 'sugar': '8g', 'sodium': '700mg', 'fat': '22g', 'saturated_fat': '8g', 'unsaturated_fat': '12g', 'trans_fat': '0g', 'carbohydrates': '30g', 'fiber': '2g', 'protein': '25g', 'cholesterol': '75mg' }; Object.entries(nutrition).forEach(([field, value]) => { const input = document.querySelector(`input[name="${field}"]`); if (input) input.value = value; }); } // Execute Korean Ground Beef Bowl: A 20-Minute Dinner That’s Big on Flavor and Light on Effort
Korean Ground Beef Bowl: A 20-Minute Dinner That’s Big on Flavor and Light on Effort

Optional Toppings

Fried or soft-boiled egg
Kimchi
Sliced cucumber or shredded carrots
Sriracha or gochujang for heat
Quick pickled radishes

Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet or wok
Cutting board and knife
Measuring spoons and cups
Rice cooker or pot for cooking rice
Spatula

Substitutions and Additions

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
Swap brown sugar with honey, coconut sugar, or a keto-friendly sweetener
Make it gluten-free with tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce
Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or cabbage right into the skillet
Serve over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or noodles if you want a change

How to Make Korean Ground Beef Bowls (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart as it cooks, and cook until no longer pink—about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger
Stir in the garlic and ginger. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. This step makes the kitchen smell amazing.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the sauce into the skillet with the beef.

Step 4: Simmer and Finish
Reduce heat and let the beef simmer in the sauce for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is well coated and slightly thickened.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Scoop hot rice into bowls, top with the Korean ground beef, and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. Add your favorite toppings for extra crunch or heat.

What to Serve with Korean Ground Beef Bowls

A simple cucumber salad or pickled veggies
Steamed or stir-fried broccoli
Miso soup or a light Asian-style broth
Roasted sesame green beans
An egg roll or dumplings on the side

Tips for the Best Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Don’t skip the garlic and sesame oil—they’re essential for that Korean-inspired flavor
Adjust sweetness and spice to your taste (start small—you can always add more)
Use fresh green onions and sesame seeds for texture and color
Double the sauce if you like things extra juicy
Make a big batch—this freezes beautifully and makes amazing leftovers

How to Store and Reheat

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze beef mixture (not rice) for up to 3 months
Reheat: Microwave or sauté in a skillet with a splash of water or broth

General Info About Korean-Inspired Bowls

Korean cuisine is all about balance—sweet, salty, spicy, sour, and bitter—and bowl meals like this one capture that beautifully. While this recipe isn’t a traditional Korean dish, it’s inspired by bulgogi, a marinated beef typically grilled or pan-fried and served with rice and kimchi. This simplified version uses ground beef to bring those same flavors into a weeknight-friendly meal.

Korean rice bowls often include banchan (small side dishes) and a variety of toppings to create a balanced, texture-rich eating experience. The key is harmony—and this dish offers just that, with bold beef, tender rice, and crisp, vibrant garnishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Use crumbled tofu, tempeh, or plant-based ground beef. Just press out any excess moisture first.

Is this spicy?
Only if you want it to be! Red pepper flakes are optional, and you can add sriracha or gochujang for more heat.

Can I use leftover rice?
Absolutely. Day-old rice is perfect—just warm it up before serving.

How do I meal prep this?
Cook the beef and rice, store separately, and portion into containers. Add veggies and toppings fresh before eating.

Can I make this into lettuce wraps?
Yes! Spoon the beef into romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb version.

Conclusion

This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is one of those magical recipes that delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort. It’s fast, customizable, and full of that rich, sweet-salty-sesame goodness that keeps you going back for another bite. Whether you make it for a quick dinner, a work-from-home lunch, or a lazy Sunday meal prep session, it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your rotation.

If you love bold, simple dinners, try these next:

Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls
Teriyaki Ground Turkey and Veggie Stir Fry

Share Your Bowls!

Tried this recipe? I’d love to see how you made it your own! Tag me on Pinterest or drop a comment below. Did you go classic or load it up with toppings? Your creativity inspires others to cook too!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)

Calories: ~420
Protein: 25g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 22g
Sugar: 8g
Fiber: 2g

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Korean Ground Beef Bowl

  • Author: iyma hernandes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
Print Recipe

Description

A fast, flavorful 20-minute Korean-inspired dinner that’s big on sweet-salty-umami comfort and light on effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (85–90% lean)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (or 1/4 teaspoon ground)
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  2. Add garlic and ginger, cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Add to skillet.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer 3–5 minutes, stirring until beef is coated and sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Serve over hot rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Add optional toppings as desired.

Notes

Customize with your favorite toppings like kimchi, fried egg, or sliced cucumber. Makes great leftovers and freezes well.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Korean-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Korean ground beef bowl, easy dinner, 20-minute meal, rice bowl, bulgogi style

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Photo of author
Author: Olivia Bexley
Published:

A 20-Minute Dinner That’s Big on Flavor and Light on Effort

Thank you so much for stopping by! I don’t know about you, but there are days when I just can’t do a complicated dinner—and that’s exactly when this Korean Ground Beef Bowl swoops in to save the night. It’s fast, it’s packed with bold, savory-sweet flavor, and it’s made with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. We’re talking dinner on the table in 20 minutes or less, with leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping lunches for the week, or just trying to avoid another night of takeout, this bowl is your answer. Don’t forget to subscribe to get this recipe (and all my favorite quick dinners!) delivered right to your inbox!

Korean Ground Beef Bowl

What Is a Korean Ground Beef Bowl?

A Korean ground beef bowl is a simplified spin on the flavors of Korean BBQ—specifically, the sweet and savory beef you might find in bulgogi—served over a bed of fluffy rice with optional toppings like kimchi, cucumbers, or a runny fried egg. Instead of marinating and grilling sliced beef, this version uses ground beef, which cooks much faster and absorbs flavor beautifully. It’s seasoned with a garlicky soy-sesame sauce that’s lightly sweetened, and the whole thing comes together in one skillet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Quick and easy: Ready in 20 minutes from start to finish
One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor
Family-friendly: Sweet, savory, and not spicy (unless you want it to be!)
Meal prep star: Great for make-ahead lunches or freezer meals
Customizable: Add veggies, grains, or toppings to make it your own

This Korean ground beef bowl isn’t just easy—it’s comforting. It’s one of those meals where you take a bite, and the soy-sesame-garlic combo just hits every craving button.

What It Tastes Like

Bold, umami-rich flavor from soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil
A hint of sweetness from brown sugar (or honey)
A gentle heat from optional red pepper flakes
Juicy, tender beef that soaks up all the saucy goodness
All of it piled over hot rice with crisp garnishes? Absolute perfection.

Why Make Korean Beef Bowls at Home

This dish gives you total control over the ingredients—you can skip excess sugar, use low-sodium soy sauce, or swap in lean beef or ground turkey. Plus, you’re skipping the cost and salt of takeout without sacrificing flavor. It’s a fantastic way to introduce Korean-inspired flavors to your table in a super approachable way.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (85–90% lean)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (or 1/4 teaspoon ground)
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooked white rice, for serving

// Fill form function fillRecipeForm() { // Basic fields document.querySelector('input[name="title"]').value = "Korean Ground Beef Bowl"; document.querySelector('input[name="author_name"]').value = "iyma hernandes"; // Rich text editors const editorContent = { description: "A fast, flavorful 20-minute Korean-inspired dinner that’s big on sweet-salty-umami comfort and light on effort.", ingredients: "<ul><li>1 pound ground beef (85–90% lean)</li><li>3 cloves garlic, minced</li><li>1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce</li><li>2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)</li><li>1 tablespoon sesame oil</li><li>1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (or 1/4 teaspoon ground)</li><li>1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)</li><li>2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)</li><li>1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)</li><li>Cooked white rice, for serving</li></ul>", instructions: "<ol><li>In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.</li><li>Add garlic and ginger, cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.</li><li>In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Add to skillet.</li><li>Reduce heat and simmer 3–5 minutes, stirring until beef is coated and sauce thickens slightly.</li><li>Serve over hot rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Add optional toppings as desired.</li></ol>", notes: "Customize with your favorite toppings like kimchi, fried egg, or sliced cucumber. Makes great leftovers and freezes well." }; Object.entries(editorContent).forEach(([field, content]) => { if (window.tinyMCE && window.tinyMCE.get(`tasty-recipes-recipe-${field}`)) { window.tinyMCE.get(`tasty-recipes-recipe-${field}`).setContent(content); } }); // Time and details const details = { 'prep_time': '5 minutes', 'cook_time': '15 minutes', 'total_time': '20 minutes', 'yield': '4 servings', 'category': 'Main Dish', 'method': 'Stovetop', 'cuisine': 'Korean-Inspired', 'keywords': 'Korean ground beef bowl, easy dinner, 20-minute meal, rice bowl, bulgogi style' }; Object.entries(details).forEach(([field, value]) => { document.querySelector(`input[name="${field}"]`).value = value; }); // Diet document.querySelector('select[name="diet"]').value = 'No Specific Diet'; // Equipment const equipment = ['Large skillet or wok', 'Cutting board and knife', 'Measuring spoons and cups', 'Rice cooker or pot for cooking rice', 'Spatula']; const equipmentSelect = document.querySelector('select[name="tasty-links-equipment"]'); if (equipmentSelect) { equipment.forEach(item => { const option = Array.from(equipmentSelect.options).find(opt => opt.text === item); if (option) option.selected = true; }); const event = new Event('change'); equipmentSelect.dispatchEvent(event); } // Nutrition const nutrition = { 'serving_size': '1 bowl', 'calories': '420', 'sugar': '8g', 'sodium': '700mg', 'fat': '22g', 'saturated_fat': '8g', 'unsaturated_fat': '12g', 'trans_fat': '0g', 'carbohydrates': '30g', 'fiber': '2g', 'protein': '25g', 'cholesterol': '75mg' }; Object.entries(nutrition).forEach(([field, value]) => { const input = document.querySelector(`input[name="${field}"]`); if (input) input.value = value; }); } // Execute Korean Ground Beef Bowl: A 20-Minute Dinner That’s Big on Flavor and Light on Effort
Korean Ground Beef Bowl: A 20-Minute Dinner That’s Big on Flavor and Light on Effort

Optional Toppings

Fried or soft-boiled egg
Kimchi
Sliced cucumber or shredded carrots
Sriracha or gochujang for heat
Quick pickled radishes

Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet or wok
Cutting board and knife
Measuring spoons and cups
Rice cooker or pot for cooking rice
Spatula

Substitutions and Additions

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
Swap brown sugar with honey, coconut sugar, or a keto-friendly sweetener
Make it gluten-free with tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce
Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or cabbage right into the skillet
Serve over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or noodles if you want a change

How to Make Korean Ground Beef Bowls (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart as it cooks, and cook until no longer pink—about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger
Stir in the garlic and ginger. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. This step makes the kitchen smell amazing.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the sauce into the skillet with the beef.

Step 4: Simmer and Finish
Reduce heat and let the beef simmer in the sauce for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is well coated and slightly thickened.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Scoop hot rice into bowls, top with the Korean ground beef, and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. Add your favorite toppings for extra crunch or heat.

What to Serve with Korean Ground Beef Bowls

A simple cucumber salad or pickled veggies
Steamed or stir-fried broccoli
Miso soup or a light Asian-style broth
Roasted sesame green beans
An egg roll or dumplings on the side

Tips for the Best Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Don’t skip the garlic and sesame oil—they’re essential for that Korean-inspired flavor
Adjust sweetness and spice to your taste (start small—you can always add more)
Use fresh green onions and sesame seeds for texture and color
Double the sauce if you like things extra juicy
Make a big batch—this freezes beautifully and makes amazing leftovers

How to Store and Reheat

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze beef mixture (not rice) for up to 3 months
Reheat: Microwave or sauté in a skillet with a splash of water or broth

General Info About Korean-Inspired Bowls

Korean cuisine is all about balance—sweet, salty, spicy, sour, and bitter—and bowl meals like this one capture that beautifully. While this recipe isn’t a traditional Korean dish, it’s inspired by bulgogi, a marinated beef typically grilled or pan-fried and served with rice and kimchi. This simplified version uses ground beef to bring those same flavors into a weeknight-friendly meal.

Korean rice bowls often include banchan (small side dishes) and a variety of toppings to create a balanced, texture-rich eating experience. The key is harmony—and this dish offers just that, with bold beef, tender rice, and crisp, vibrant garnishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Use crumbled tofu, tempeh, or plant-based ground beef. Just press out any excess moisture first.

Is this spicy?
Only if you want it to be! Red pepper flakes are optional, and you can add sriracha or gochujang for more heat.

Can I use leftover rice?
Absolutely. Day-old rice is perfect—just warm it up before serving.

How do I meal prep this?
Cook the beef and rice, store separately, and portion into containers. Add veggies and toppings fresh before eating.

Can I make this into lettuce wraps?
Yes! Spoon the beef into romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb version.

Conclusion

This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is one of those magical recipes that delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort. It’s fast, customizable, and full of that rich, sweet-salty-sesame goodness that keeps you going back for another bite. Whether you make it for a quick dinner, a work-from-home lunch, or a lazy Sunday meal prep session, it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your rotation.

If you love bold, simple dinners, try these next:

Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Spicy Sriracha Tofu Rice Bowls
Teriyaki Ground Turkey and Veggie Stir Fry

Share Your Bowls!

Tried this recipe? I’d love to see how you made it your own! Tag me on Pinterest or drop a comment below. Did you go classic or load it up with toppings? Your creativity inspires others to cook too!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)

Calories: ~420
Protein: 25g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 22g
Sugar: 8g
Fiber: 2g

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Korean Ground Beef Bowl

  • Author: iyma hernandes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
Print Recipe

Description

A fast, flavorful 20-minute Korean-inspired dinner that’s big on sweet-salty-umami comfort and light on effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (85–90% lean)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (or 1/4 teaspoon ground)
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  2. Add garlic and ginger, cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Add to skillet.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer 3–5 minutes, stirring until beef is coated and sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Serve over hot rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Add optional toppings as desired.

Notes

Customize with your favorite toppings like kimchi, fried egg, or sliced cucumber. Makes great leftovers and freezes well.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Korean-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Korean ground beef bowl, easy dinner, 20-minute meal, rice bowl, bulgogi style

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

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