It is 6pm on a busy Tuesday. You are tired and the family is hungry. You need a meal that is fast and satisfying. This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is your new secret weapon. It delivers big, bold flavors in just twenty minutes.
There is something so comforting about savory beef over fluffy rice. This dish is perfect for those hectic back-to-school evenings. It feels like a treat but takes very little effort. You can finally skip the takeout line tonight.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a total lifesaver for busy families. It uses simple pantry staples you likely already have. You get a high-protein meal that keeps everyone full. It is much more budget-friendly than ordering from a restaurant.
The balance of sweet and savory is truly addictive. Even picky eaters usually love the mild, honey-like glaze. It is a versatile base for many different vegetables. You will love how quickly it comes together after work.
Simple Cooking Steps
Making this dish is incredibly easy and straightforward. You simply brown the meat and whisk the sauce. Everything happens in one single skillet for easy cleanup. Even beginner cooks can master this meal with confidence. It is a foolproof way to feed your family fast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on fresh aromatics and basic sauces. Most of these items are already in your kitchen.
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Step-by-Step
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef.
- Break it into small crumbles until no longer pink.
- Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Add garlic and ginger to the skillet.
- Sauté for 90 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
- Add red pepper flakes and black pepper.
- Simmer for 3 minutes until the sauce coats the beef.
- Serve the beef over bowls of cooked jasmine rice.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve the beef warm over a bed of jasmine rice. The rice soaks up all that delicious savory sauce perfectly. Add a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas. For a fresh crunch, try a simple cucumber salad. This meal is also excellent for meal prep lunches.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container immediately. They will stay fresh in the fridge for 4 days. This beef actually tastes better the next day as flavors meld. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. You can also use the microwave for a quick lunch. It is a great option for busy workdays.
Tips for Best Results
- Use lean ground beef to keep the dish light.
- Do not skip the fresh ginger for the best flavor.
- Grate your ginger with a microplane to save time.
- Break the beef into very small crumbles while cooking.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- Make the rice ahead of time to save more minutes.
- Use a large skillet to ensure the beef browns evenly.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
- Add shredded carrots or bell peppers to the skillet.
- Use honey instead of brown sugar for natural sweetness.
Common Questions
Can I freeze the cooked beef?
Yes, this beef freezes beautifully for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating. It is perfect for emergency freezer meals.
Is this recipe too spicy for kids?
The spice level is very mild as written. You can easily omit the red pepper flakes entirely. It will still be full of savory flavor.
I hope this quick meal brings some peace to your busy evening. It is proof that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. Enjoy every bite with your family!
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 2 green onions , sliced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef while breaking it into small crumbles until no longer pink.
- Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Add garlic and ginger to the skillet and sauté for 90 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
- Simmer the mixture for 3 minutes until the sauce coats the beef and thickens slightly.
- Serve the beef over bowls of cooked jasmine rice.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
