Can I substitute the beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works great if you're looking for a lighter option. The seasoning still gives you that classic Korean-inspired flavor.

What veggies are best for this recipe?

Broccoli, spinach, carrots, and bell peppers are all great choices. They blend perfectly with the sweet-savory beef and add color to your bowl.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store the rice separately if you can—it keeps the textures better.

Can I make this Korean Ground Beef Bowl spicy?

Yes! Add red pepper flakes or a spoonful of gochujang. This bowl becomes a whole new experience with a little heat.

Sure does. Freeze the beef mixture on its own, then reheat and serve with fresh rice for an easy future meal.

Korean Ground Beef Bowl: 25-Minute Flavor Magic

Name: Korean Ground Beef Bowl Bliss: A Quick & Irresistible Favorite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (80/20); 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); Optional toppings: sesame seeds, sliced cucumber, kimchi, pickled vegetables, fried egg; Optional vegetables: bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, spinach

Description

A quick and flavorful Korean Ground Beef Bowl made with savory garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame, served over warm rice. Ready in just 25 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef (80/20)
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)
Optional toppings: sesame seeds, sliced cucumber, kimchi, pickled vegetables, fried egg
Optional vegetables: bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, spinach

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Rice
- Stovetop: Rinse 1 cup of rice until water runs clear. Combine with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Let rest 5 minutes before fluffing.
- Rice Cooker: Add rinsed rice and water; cook according to the machine’s instructions.
- Instant Pot: Add rinsed rice and water. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes with natural release.
Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add ground beef and cook 5–7 minutes until no longer pink, breaking it apart.
- Drain excess fat if needed. Add garlic and ginger; cook 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Simmer for another 1–2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the Bowls
- Add a generous scoop of rice to each bowl.
- Top with seasoned ground beef.
- Add vegetables if using.
- Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, kimchi, or a fried egg.

Notes

Add a drizzle of sriracha or gochujang for a spicy kick.

Use cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

This recipe reheats well and works great for meal prep.

Substitute with ground turkey or chicken if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 400 kcal
Sugar: ~2 g
Sodium: ~550 mg
Fat: ~22 g
Saturated Fat: ~7 g
Unsaturated Fat: ~13 g
Trans Fat: ~1 g
Carbohydrates: ~30 g
Fiber: ~1 g
Protein: ~22 g
Cholesterol: ~70 mg