Korean Beef and Rice Bowl
This quick and easy Korean Beef and Rice Bowl combines tender ground beef cooked in a savory, slightly sweet sauce served over fluffy rice. Perfect for busy weeknights, this flavorful dish balances umami, sweetness, and a hint of spice, making it a comforting yet exciting meal that’s adaptable and affordable.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (85% lean)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced, plus extra for garnish
- 3 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Finely mince garlic and ginger. Slice green onions and measure out soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes so everything is ready before cooking.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and no longer pink.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger with the browned beef. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then add soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and let simmer for a few minutes so the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
- Finish with Green Onions: Stir in sliced green onions for a fresh bite. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Assemble the Bowl: Place a generous scoop of cooked rice in each bowl. Top with the savory Korean beef mixture and garnish with additional green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or sriracha as desired.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce grease while maintaining flavor.
- Properly brown the beef for rich caramelization and depth.
- Simmer the sauce just long enough so it thickens and clings to the beef.
- Use fresh garlic, ginger, and green onions for authentic flavor.
- Taste the sauce as you cook and adjust soy sauce or sugar to balance sweetness and saltiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 cup beef with 3/4 cup rice)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Korean beef bowl, quick dinner, easy recipe, ground beef, Korean food, meal prep, weeknight meal, gluten free option, savory beef bowl