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Overhead view of a delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl with rice, ground beef, sliced cucumbers, a fried egg, green onions, and sesame seeds.
Daniel

Quick & Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl

This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a flavor-packed, weeknight-friendly meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Savory, slightly sweet, and perfectly spiced, it's served over rice with fresh toppings for a complete and satisfying dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Korean Ground Beef
  • 1 lb Ground beef 80/20 lean recommended
  • 1 tbsp Sesame oil
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Fresh ginger grated
For the Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Soy sauce low-sodium preferred
  • 2 tbsp Brown sugar packed
  • 1 tbsp Rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp Gochujang Korean chili paste, optional for heat
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper
For Serving
  • 2 cups Cooked white rice or brown rice, quinoa
  • 1/4 cup Green onions thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp Toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 Eggs fried or soft-boiled (optional)
  • 1/2 cup Kimchi optional, for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Rice Cooker (optional)
  • Whisk

Method
 

Prepare the Sauce
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, gochujang (if using), and black pepper until the sugar is dissolved. Set aside.
Cook the Beef
  1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, browning evenly, until no pink remains. Drain any excess grease.
  2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine and Simmer
  1. Pour the prepared sauce over the ground beef mixture in the skillet. Stir well to coat all the beef.
  2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and glazed the beef.
Assemble the Bowls
  1. Divide the cooked rice among serving bowls. Spoon a generous portion of the Korean ground beef over the rice.
  2. Garnish each bowl with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. If desired, add a fried or soft-boiled egg and a side of kimchi.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl!

Notes

For a healthier option, serve with brown rice or quinoa, and add some sautéed spinach or shredded carrots. This dish is excellent for meal prep; simply store the beef and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.