Name: Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Korean-inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; ¼ cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp grated ginger; 1 tbsp sesame oil; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; 2 cups cooked white or brown rice; Optional: ½ cup diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or spinach

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Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the delicious, bold flavors of Korean cuisine to your table in under 30 minutes. Featuring ground beef cooked in a savory-sweet sauce with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, this dish is served over warm rice and garnished with fresh green onions and sesame seeds. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is both easy to make and packed with umami flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a busy night.
Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples like soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic.
Budget-Friendly: Made with ground beef, a cost-effective yet flavorful protein.
Customizable: Easily adjustable for different spice levels and dietary needs.
Great for Meal Prep: Stores well and can be reheated easily for leftovers.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Garlic
Ginger
Sesame oil
Red pepper flakes
Green onions
Sesame seeds
White or brown rice
Optional vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, or spinach)

Directions

Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
Combine and Simmer: Pour the sauce over the cooked beef and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the beef evenly.
Prepare the Rice: While the beef is cooking, prepare your rice according to package instructions.
Garnish and Serve: Serve the beef over rice and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Optionally, add steamed or sautéed vegetables for extra nutrition.

Variations

Spicier Version: Add gochujang (Korean chili paste) or extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves.
Different Proteins: Substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or pork.
Vegetarian Twist: Swap ground beef for crumbled tofu or plant-based meat alternatives.
Extra Veggies: Stir-fry bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini into the beef mixture for added texture and nutrition.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground beef, reduce the sugar, and serve it with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! The beef mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat and serve over fresh rice.

What can I use instead of soy sauce?

Try tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, it has a mild sweetness that kids enjoy. You can reduce the spice level to make it more suitable for younger palates.

Can I use fresh garlic and ginger instead of powdered?

Absolutely! Fresh garlic and ginger provide the best flavor. Mince or grate them for the best results.

What type of rice pairs best with this dish?

White rice, brown rice, or even jasmine rice all work well. You can also serve it with quinoa for a different twist.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef first, then add it with the sauce ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours.

How can I add more vegetables?

You can mix in diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, spinach, or mushrooms while cooking the beef for added nutrition.

What toppings go well with this dish?

Green onions, sesame seeds, a drizzle of sriracha, or a fried egg on top make excellent additions.

Can I use frozen ground beef?

Yes, but thaw it first for even cooking. If cooking from frozen, use a lower heat and break it apart as it thaws.

Conclusion

Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a perfect go-to meal for busy nights when you need something quick, flavorful, and satisfying. With its simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a dish that pleases both adults and kids alike. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with variations, this meal is sure to become a staple in your weekly rotation. Try it today and enjoy the delicious taste of Korean-inspired cuisine!

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