Name: Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Korean-inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for optimal flavor); 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 2 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked rice (jasmine, basmati, or brown rice); Sesame seeds; Sliced cucumber; Kimchi; Pickled vegetables; Vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or spinach); Egg (fried egg on top for added richness)

Jump to Recipe

This Korean ground beef bowl is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together savory, umami-rich beef, perfectly seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Paired with rice and topped with fresh vegetables or a fried egg, it’s a delicious, well-balanced meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility — you can adjust the flavors, toppings, and vegetables to suit your preferences. Whether you enjoy a little crunch from pickled vegetables or the creamy richness of a fried egg, this bowl is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for bold, savory flavors. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a taste of Korean-inspired cuisine right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for a busy dinner or lunch.

2. Flavorful

The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger creates a savory and aromatic base for the ground beef that’s both satisfying and delicious.

3. Customizable

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can add any vegetables you like, from bell peppers to broccoli, and even top it with a fried egg for extra richness.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

The Korean ground beef mixture stores well, so you can prepare extra portions and use them for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

5. Balanced Meal

With protein from the beef, fiber from the vegetables, and carbs from the rice, this recipe offers a well-rounded and filling meal.

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef:

Ground beef (80/20 for optimal flavor)
Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
Sesame oil
Garlic (minced)
Ginger (minced)
Green onions (chopped)
Salt and pepper

For the Rice:

Jasmine, basmati, or brown rice (cooked)

Optional Toppings:

Sesame seeds
Sliced cucumber
Kimchi
Pickled vegetables

Optional Ingredients:

Vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, spinach)
Egg (fried egg for added richness)

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or tofu for a vegetarian option. The seasonings will still add plenty of flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add gochujang (Korean chili paste) or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture to make it spicy.
Grilled Vegetables: Instead of sautéing vegetables, you can grill them for a smoky flavor, which complements the richness of the beef.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Stove Method: Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine with 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Rice Cooker: Add rinsed rice and water to your rice cooker. Close the lid and let it cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Instant Pot: Combine rinsed rice and water in the pot. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes, then allow a natural release.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Brown until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
Drain excess fat if necessary, then add the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Assemble the Bowl

Spoon a generous amount of cooked rice into the bottom of your bowl.
Top the rice with the seasoned ground beef mixture.
Add any additional vegetables, such as steamed broccoli or sliced bell peppers, on top or around the beef.
Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and any other toppings you prefer, such as kimchi or a fried egg.

Tips for Making the Recipe

If using brown rice, it will take longer to cook than white rice, so be sure to adjust the cooking time.
For a crispier texture, cook the beef in a hot skillet, ensuring it gets a nice sear before stirring.
When using tamari for a gluten-free version, check the ingredients to ensure it’s certified gluten-free.
Make the dish extra savory by adding a fried egg on top, letting the yolk mix into the beef and rice.
For an even healthier version, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

How to Serve

This Korean ground beef bowl is best served warm. You can enjoy it as a standalone meal or serve it alongside pickled vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad. Garnish with fresh herbs and a lime wedge for added brightness. It’s great for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for the week.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover ground beef mixture and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat each component in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze the ground beef mixture for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Rice can also be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the ground beef and rice in a skillet or microwave. You may want to add a little splash of water to the rice to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef, though the flavor will be milder.

2. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Add gochujang (Korean chili paste) or red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture to add a spicy kick.

3. Can I use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice?

Yes, cauliflower rice is a great low-carb substitute for regular rice.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make this recipe gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

5. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, spinach, or broccoli to customize the bowl to your taste.

6. How can I make this dish vegan?

To make this dish vegan, replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or tofu and ensure that your soy sauce is vegan.

7. Can I prepare the beef mixture ahead of time?

Yes, the beef mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

8. What kind of rice should I use?

You can use jasmine, basmati, or brown rice. Choose your favorite type based on texture and flavor preferences.

9. How do I store leftovers?

Store the beef mixture and rice in separate containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

10. Can I freeze the dish?

Yes, you can freeze the beef mixture and rice separately for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly when ready to serve.

Conclusion

The Korean ground beef bowl is a simple yet flavorful meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s easy to make, customizable, and offers a delicious balance of savory beef, aromatic seasonings, and satisfying rice. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a meal prep option, this dish provides a satisfying, hearty option that’s bursting with bold flavors.