Name: Korean Beef Bowl
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 green onions, sliced; 2 cups cooked white rice (for serving); 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

This Korean Beef Bowl is a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with ground beef, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and a few pantry staples, it delivers bold Korean-inspired flavors in under 30 minutes. Served over steamed rice and topped with green onions and sesame seeds, it’s a satisfying dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Korean Beef Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how fast and simple this recipe is—it only takes one pan and comes together in no time. The savory and slightly sweet flavor of the beef pairs beautifully with warm rice, making it a perfect go-to dish when I need something quick but crave something comforting. It’s also incredibly versatile: I can add veggies, make it spicy, or even serve it over noodles. Plus, it’s a family-friendly favorite that everyone at the table enjoys.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Garlic, minced
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Sesame oil
Ground ginger
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Green onions, sliced
Cooked white rice (for serving)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

I start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
Once the beef is fully cooked, I drain any excess grease.
I stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Then, I add soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes. I stir everything together until the beef is well coated and simmer for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld.
I remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sliced green onions.
I serve the beef mixture over hot cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds before digging in.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

I sometimes substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
When I want more veggies, I add shredded carrots, chopped spinach, or sautéed bell peppers.
For a low-carb option, I serve it over cauliflower rice.
When I want more heat, I add gochujang or extra red pepper flakes.
For a richer umami flavor, I sometimes add a splash of fish sauce or hoisin sauce.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I microwave a portion for 1-2 minutes until hot, or warm it on the stovetop over medium heat. If it looks dry, I add a splash of water or soy sauce before reheating.

FAQs

How do I make this recipe spicier?

I like to add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a spoonful of gochujang for a spicier kick.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the beef mixture ahead and store it in the fridge. When I’m ready to eat, I just reheat it and serve over fresh rice.

What type of rice is best?

I usually go for jasmine or short-grain white rice, but brown rice or even cauliflower rice works great too.

Can I freeze Korean beef bowl?

Absolutely. I freeze the cooked beef in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes, I’ve made it using plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu, and it still turns out flavorful and satisfying.

Conclusion

This Korean Beef Bowl is a weeknight winner—quick, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. I love how easy it is to throw together and how it always hits the spot. Whether I’m feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish never disappoints.