When you need a flavorful dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, this Korean Beef Bowl is a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.
Tender ground beef is simmered in a sweet and savory sauce made with garlic, fresh ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil, creating a rich blend of bold flavors that pairs perfectly with warm rice.
This easy weeknight meal delivers restaurant-inspired taste with simple pantry ingredients.
The balance of sweetness, savory depth, and a touch of heat makes every bite satisfying, while the fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds add the perfect finishing touch.
Serve it over brown rice, white rice, or even spiralized vegetables for a lighter option.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 5 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 6 green onions, chopped and divided
- 4 cups hot cooked brown rice
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Directions
- Gather and prepare all ingredients before starting.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small crumbles as it browns, until fully cooked, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the crushed garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Pour in the soy sauce and add the brown sugar and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook for approximately 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and is absorbed into the beef.
- Stir in half of the chopped green onions and remove from heat.
- Divide the hot cooked rice among serving bowls. Spoon the Korean beef mixture over the rice.
- Garnish with the remaining green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Chefs Notes
- For extra heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of sriracha.
- Ground turkey or ground chicken can be substituted for a lighter version.
- Serve with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat beautifully for meal prep.
- For added texture and flavor, top with a fried egg or sliced cucumber.