Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Name: Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 1 carrot, shredded; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 green onions, chopped; Cooked rice for serving; 2 tablespoons gochujang; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Satisfy your cravings with this vibrant Korean Ground Beef Bowl recipe. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, this gluten-free meal features seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and a savory sauce served over a bed of rice. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, it's a delicious way to bring Korean cuisine into your home.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2025-12-14T03:36:41.735Z

This dish is a wonderful introduction to the bold flavors of Korean cuisine.

A Fusion of Flavors

The Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a delightful fusion of savory and sweet, perfectly embodying the essence of Korean cuisine. The use of gochujang, a spicy-sweet fermented chili paste, gives this dish its unique flavor profile. Coupled with tender ground beef and vibrant vegetables, every bite offers a burst of flavor that is both comforting and exciting. It's a meal that not only satisfies your taste buds but also introduces you to the richness of Korean flavors.

This dish is an excellent example of how you can effortlessly blend staple ingredients like beef and rice with bold seasonings to create a standout meal. The garlic and ginger provide a fragrant base, while the sesame oil adds a nutty depth, making this bowl an unforgettable experience. Whether you're familiar with Korean cooking or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to impress.

Quick and Convenient Meal Prep

One of the biggest advantages of the Korean Ground Beef Bowl is how quickly it comes together. In just about 30 minutes, you can prepare a wholesome meal that serves as an excellent option for busy weeknights or meal prep. The straightforward cooking process ensures that even novice cooks can whip up this dish with ease, making it a practical choice for families or individuals with hectic schedules.

Additionally, the beef mixture keeps well in the refrigerator, so you can make a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week. Pair it with different sides like broccoli or a mixed green salad, and you have a versatile meal that adapts to your cravings. With minimal cleanup involved, you'll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again.

Customization and Variations

One of the joys of cooking at home is the ability to customize recipes to suit your preferences. The Korean Ground Beef Bowl is no exception. Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or even a meat alternative if you're looking for a lighter option. You can also experiment with different vegetables; zucchini, snap peas, or mushrooms could make excellent additions.

If you crave a little extra heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to the bowl just before serving. This dish is not only flexible in terms of ingredients but also in terms of serving style. You can serve it in a bowl for a hearty dinner or pack it into meal prep containers for lunches on the go. The possibilities are endless, making it a fun recipe to experiment with.

Ingredients

For the Beef Bowl

1 pound ground beef
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
1 carrot, shredded
1 bell pepper, diced
2 green onions, chopped
Cooked rice for serving

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons gochujang
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Mix well before cooking.

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together gochujang, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds. Set aside.

Cook the Beef

In a skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, garlic, and ginger; cook until browned.

Add Vegetables

Add carrots and bell peppers to the skillet. Stir in the prepared sauce and cook for another 5 minutes.

Serve

Serve the beef mixture over cooked rice and garnish with green onions.

Enjoy your delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl!

Storing and Reheating

To ensure freshness, store the leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is simple; just place it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or a bit of extra sesame oil can help maintain the moisture and flavor, making it taste just as good as when it was first prepared.

If you're looking to store it longer, consider freezing the beef mixture. Simply allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving. This way, you can enjoy your Korean Ground Beef Bowl any time you want!

Nutritional Benefits

The Korean Ground Beef Bowl isn't just delicious; it also packs a nutritious punch. Ground beef is a great source of protein, essential for muscle health and overall wellness. Combined with fresh vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, you're getting a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals that contribute to your daily dietary needs.

Additionally, using brown rice instead of white rice can enhance the bowl’s nutritional profile. Brown rice is higher in fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you fuller for longer. With these considerations, this meal aligns well with various dietary goals, offering a satisfying and balanced dinner option.

Pairings and Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Korean Ground Beef Bowl experience, consider pairing it with traditional Korean side dishes such as kimchi or pickled vegetables. These sides not only add crunch and acidity but also create a culinary balance that complements the rich flavors of the beef bowl. You can also serve it with a boiled egg for an extra protein boost.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, serve the dish with a side of spicy dipping sauce or Korean hot sauce. This will let each person customize their bowl according to their spice preference, enhancing the dining experience. Don’t forget to top your bowl with sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and crunch—it makes all the difference!