Looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? This Flavorful Korean Ground Beef Bowl combines savory-sweet sauce, aromatic garlic, and a hint of spice served over fluffy rice, creating a dish that hits every flavor note. It’s budget-friendly, meal-prep friendly, and bursting with Korean-inspired flavor.
Whether you’re feeding a busy family or prepping lunches for the week, this bowl packs protein, bold taste, and comfort all in one.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Beef:
- 500g (1 lb) lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For the Sauce:
- 60ml (¼ cup) low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1–2 teaspoons sriracha or Korean gochujang (optional for spice)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water, optional for thickening)
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or brown rice
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Steamed or stir-fried vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bok choy, etc.)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
- Start by cooking your rice according to package instructions. Set aside and keep warm.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, and sriracha or gochujang (if using). Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add sesame oil.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. Cook for 5–7 minutes until fully browned and no longer pink.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
- Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked beef.
- If using, stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and coats the beef.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
- Spoon warm rice into serving bowls.
- Top with saucy ground beef mixture.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Add steamed or stir-fried vegetables on the side for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fried egg on top for added richness.
- Swap rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
- Add kimchi for a punch of probiotic flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (with rice and garnish) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 470 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Total Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 43 g |
| Sugars | 11 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
Key Notes:
- Lean beef provides high-quality protein and iron.
- Soy sauce and sesame oil add rich umami depth.
- Balanced sweet and savory profile keeps the dish satisfying without overloading sugar.
- Vegetables and rice round out the meal with fiber and texture.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Make it low-carb: Replace rice with riced cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
- Vegetarian version: Swap beef with lentils, tofu, or crumbled tempeh.
- Extra veggies: Stir-fry bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded carrots into the beef mixture for added nutrition.
- Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
This Flavorful Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a true weeknight hero: quick, easy, budget-conscious, and layered with irresistible flavor. With its sweet and savory sauce and satisfying protein profile, this dish is sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation.