Name: Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for optimal flavor); 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon ginger (minced); 2 green onions (chopped, plus extra for garnish); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked rice (jasmine, basmati, or brown rice); Sesame seeds; Sliced cucumber; Kimchi; Pickled vegetables; Vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or spinach; Egg (fried egg on top for added richness)

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Introduction

This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that brings hearty, savory, and slightly sweet flavors in every bite. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for busy cooks craving something satisfying and versatile.

A bowl with two layers is shown: the bottom layer is white cooked rice with a soft texture, and the top layer is browned ground meat cooked in a sauce giving it a shiny look. On top of the meat is a sprinkle of chopped green onions and beige sesame seeds scattered evenly. The bowl is black and placed on a dark cloth over a white marbled surface. In the background, a pair of light-colored chopsticks rests horizontally, and a blurred smaller bowl with vegetables is visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (80/20 for optimal flavor)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon ginger (minced)
2 green onions (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked rice (jasmine, basmati, or brown rice)
Optional toppings: sesame seeds, sliced cucumber, kimchi, or pickled vegetables
Vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or spinach)
Egg (a fried egg on top for added richness)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the rice using your preferred method. For stovetop, rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until clear. Combine with 2 cups of water in a pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes. Let stand covered off the heat for 5 minutes before fluffing. Alternatively, use a rice cooker or Instant Pot following manufacturer instructions.
Step 2: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Add minced garlic and ginger to the beef and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 5: Assemble your bowl by spooning cooked rice into the bottom, then layering the seasoned ground beef on top.
Step 6: Add any cooked or raw vegetables you like around or on top of the beef for extra color and nutrition.
Step 7: Garnish with sesame seeds, additional green onions, and optional toppings such as kimchi or a fried egg for richness.

Tips & Variations

Use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Add extra vegetables like shredded carrots or sautéed spinach to increase fiber and flavor.
Top with a fried or poached egg for a creamy texture and added protein.
For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with crumbled tofu or plant-based meat alternatives.

Storage

Store leftover beef and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Add fresh toppings like green onions or a fried egg after reheating to keep flavors bright.

How to Serve

A close-up of a bowl with two layers: the bottom layer is white rice with a soft and slightly sticky texture, and the top layer is cooked ground meat mixed with a dark brown sauce, giving it a glossy look. The meat is sprinkled with chopped green onions and light tan sesame seeds, adding color and texture contrast. The bowl is white and sits on a white marbled surface. In the blurry background, there is another bowl with similar tones and wooden chopsticks resting nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner substitute. Cook similarly, but watch carefully to avoid drying out the meat.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, this bowl is mildly flavored and not spicy by default. You can add sliced chili peppers or a drizzle of sriracha if you prefer heat.