It is 6pm and your family is hungry. You need a meal that is fast and filling. This High Protein Korean Beef Bowl is my favorite solution for busy nights.
This recipe delivers a savory, protein-dense dinner in under 30 minutes. It is fresh, flavorful, and much better than takeout. Your kitchen will smell amazing as the ginger and garlic hit the pan.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a total winner for your weekly meal prep. It uses simple pantry staples you likely have right now. Your family will love the sweet and savory glaze on the beef.
It is perfect for busy fall weeknights when schedules get hectic. You get a balanced meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish is truly budget-friendly and nutritious for everyone.
Simple Method
You only need one large skillet for this entire meal. Even if you are a beginner, you can master this easily. Simply brown the meat and whisk the sauce together. It is stress-free cooking at its best for any home cook.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are mostly staples that create a restaurant-quality flavor at home.
- 1.25 lbs 93% lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a large skillet, brown the lean ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet to maintain nutritional targets.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for approximately 1 minute.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and peppers.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and stir to coat thoroughly.
- Simmer the beef for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce has slightly thickened.
- Divide the cooked rice into four bowls and top with the beef mixture.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this warm over a bed of fluffy white rice. Add some sliced cucumbers or steamed broccoli for a fresh crunch. It makes a balanced and colorful bowl that looks impressive. Pack these into containers for easy and delicious weekday lunches.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge. They stay fresh and delicious for up to four days. This recipe is ideal for batch cooking on Sundays. Reheat in the microwave for two minutes or until steaming hot.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh ginger instead of powder for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip draining the fat to keep the meal lean.
- Prep the sauce while the beef is browning to save time.
- Add extra red pepper flakes if you enjoy a spicy kick.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt levels perfectly.
- Toast your sesame seeds for a deeper, nuttier flavor profile.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Try ground turkey or chicken for an even leaner option.
- Use cauliflower rice to make this a low-carb meal.
- Swap brown sugar for honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness.
- Add a fried egg on top for extra protein and richness.
Common Questions
Can I freeze the cooked beef?
Yes, the cooked beef mixture freezes very well. Store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely, kids love the sweet and savory sauce. If your children are sensitive to heat, simply omit the red pepper flakes. It is a filling and fun meal for the whole family.
I hope this simple beef bowl makes your busy weeknights a little easier. It is a cozy, satisfying meal that truly nourishes the soul. Happy cooking!
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 1.25 lbs 93% lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup low -sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 green onions , sliced
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the lean ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked, breaking it into small crumbles.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet to maintain nutritional targets.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for approximately 1 minute until fragrant.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and stir to coat thoroughly.
- Simmer the beef for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce has slightly thickened and flavors are integrated.
- Divide the cooked rice into four bowls and top each with an equal portion of the beef mixture.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
