Looking for a quick, budget-friendly, and flavorful dinner? These Korean Ground Beef and Rice Bowls are the perfect solution!
Made with savory, sweet, and slightly spicy Korean-inspired beef, this dish comes together in just 20 minutes using pantry staples. It’s perfect for weeknight meals, meal prep, or whenever you need a satisfying meal in a hurry.
Let’s get cooking! 🍚🥢
Ingredients Required
For the Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey for a natural sweetener)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional for heat)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped
For the Rice:
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Sesame seeds
- More chopped green onions
- Sliced cucumbers or shredded carrots
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large skillet or pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
- If you haven’t already, cook your white or brown rice according to package instructions.
- Set aside while you prepare the beef.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Add Flavor
- Stir in minced garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sriracha, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir everything together and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
- Scoop rice into serving bowls.
- Top with cooked Korean beef.
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and sliced cucumbers or carrots.
Tips for the Best Korean Beef Bowls
- Use lean ground beef (90/10) to avoid too much grease.
- Want extra crunch? Add chopped kimchi or shredded cabbage.
- Make it spicier! Add more sriracha or red pepper flakes.
- Meal prep friendly! Store in containers for quick meals during the week.
Variations of the Recipe
1. Low-Carb Korean Beef Bowls
- Swap rice for cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
2. Korean BBQ Chicken Bowls
- Use ground chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
3. Vegetarian Korean Rice Bowls
- Replace beef with crumbled tofu or lentils for a plant-based option.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Korean Ground Beef and Rice Bowls with:
- Kimchi – A traditional spicy fermented side.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – Such as broccoli, bok choy, or asparagus.
- Miso Soup – A warm, comforting addition.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Freezing:
- Freeze the cooked beef in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Final Thoughts
These Korean Ground Beef and Rice Bowls are an easy, flavorful, and budget-friendly meal that you’ll want to make again and again! With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep recipe.
Try it tonight and let me know how it turns out! 🍲✨
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works great and is a leaner alternative.
2. What’s the best rice to use?
White rice is traditional, but brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice are great substitutes.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
4. How can I add more vegetables?
Stir in bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded carrots while cooking the beef.
5. Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely! Store the beef and rice separately and reheat when ready to eat.
