Korean Ground Beef Bowl

If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful meal that comes together in just 20 minutes, this Korean Ground Beef Bowl is the perfect choice! It’s packed with sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors that make every bite irresistible. Inspired by traditional Korean bulgogi, this dish takes all the bold flavors of the classic but simplifies it using ground beef for a quicker and budget-friendly version.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it over steamed rice with some veggies on the side, and you’ve got a complete, satisfying meal that the whole family will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in 20 minutes with minimal effort.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses ground beef instead of expensive cuts.
• Incredibly Flavorful: Sweet, savory, and just the right amount of spice.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults will love the bold flavors.
• Versatile: Serve over rice, in lettuce wraps, or with noodles.

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean is best)
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Sauce:

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste, optional for spice)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening, optional)

For Serving:

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ½ cup sliced cucumbers
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ons/Substitutes:

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Swap rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.

How to Make Korean Ground Beef Bowl

1. Cook the Beef:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add sesame oil, then cook the ground beef until browned (about 5-6 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed.
2. Add Garlic & Ginger:
   • Stir in the minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and gochujang.
   • If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in the cornstarch.
4. Combine & Simmer:
   • Pour the sauce over the beef and stir well.
   • Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Assemble the Bowl:
   • Scoop rice into bowls and top with the beef mixture.
   • Add shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, and green onions.
   • Sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra crunch.

Pro Tips

• For Extra Flavor: Let the beef marinate in the sauce for 10 minutes before cooking.
• Adjust the Sweetness: Add more or less brown sugar depending on your preference.
• Spice It Up: Gochujang adds heat, but you can also use sriracha or extra red pepper flakes.

How to Serve

• Traditional: Serve over hot steamed rice.
• Low-Carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or serve in lettuce wraps.
• Noodle Bowl: Serve over stir-fried noodles for a fun twist.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~400
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 40g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storing Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or soy sauce.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked beef in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat when needed.

Conclusion

This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in a quick and easy meal. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week, it’s a delicious, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and let me know how much you love it!

FAQ Section

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the beef and store it separately from the rice. Reheat before serving.

What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu works well!

How do I make it spicier?
Add extra gochujang, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of sriracha.