Korean Ground Beef Bowl

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When you’re craving something savory, satisfying, and lightning-fast to make, this Korean Ground Beef Bowl hits the spot. It takes the bold, umami-packed flavors of traditional Korean bulgogi and transforms them into a weeknight-friendly dish made with ground beef. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re indulging in takeout but with healthier ingredients and minimal prep.

The juicy beef is simmered in a garlicky, soy-based sauce sweetened with a hint of brown sugar and spiced just enough to tingle the tongue. Served over fluffy white rice and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, every bite is a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and savory. This is a back-pocket dinner you’ll want to revisit again and again.

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What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For the best texture and flavor, opt for lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10). It provides enough fat for flavor without becoming greasy. If you’re looking for an even leaner option, ground turkey or ground chicken also work beautifully and soak up the marinade flavors just as well.

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Ingredients for the Korean Ground Beef Bowl

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

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How To Make the Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, about 5-6 minutes. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once the beef is browned, drain excess fat if needed, then stir in the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

In the same pan, add brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and ground ginger. Stir well to coat all the beef. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes so the flavors can meld.

Step 4: Serve Over Rice

Spoon the beef over freshly cooked white rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy!

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How to Serve and Store Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Serve this dish hot, over a bed of rice or even cauliflower rice if you’re going low-carb. You can also wrap it in lettuce leaves for a Korean BBQ-style bite.

To store, let the beef cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It also freezes well—just portion it into freezer bags and store for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level is mild to moderate thanks to the red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust it up or down to suit your preference.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep. Make a batch and portion into containers with rice for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Is this gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free version like tamari or coconut aminos.

What other toppings work well?

Shredded carrots, kimchi, cucumber slices, or a fried egg are great additions to enhance texture and flavor.

Can I use frozen ground beef?

Yes, just make sure to fully thaw it before cooking so it browns evenly and absorbs the sauce properly.

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Want More Weeknight Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Korean Ground Beef Bowl, check out these other flavorful dishes that make busy nights delicious:

• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a rich and cozy dinner.
• Taco Spaghetti Casserole when you can’t decide between pasta and tacos.
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for easy cleanup and big flavor.
• Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole to spice things up.
• Buffalo Chicken Calzone if you’re craving something baked and bold.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board for easy weeknight inspiration.

And let me know how you served it! Did you go classic with rice, or switch it up with lettuce wraps or cauliflower rice? Did you throw on a fried egg? I’m always curious how you make these dishes your own. Drop a comment and let’s chat!

Want more quick recipes like this? Head over to my Pinterest at Nina Dishes for daily meal ideas!

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