Can I use a different type of meat besides ground beef?

Yes! This recipe works great with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even plant-based meat alternatives like Impossible or Beyond Meat. Just keep in mind that leaner meats might need a touch more oil or sauce to stay juicy.

Is the recipe too spicy for kids or sensitive eaters?

Not at all. The crushed red pepper flakes can be adjusted or omitted entirely based on your spice preference. It’s easy to control the heat level in this dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Korean beef bowls are perfect for meal prep. Store the cooked beef in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Just reheat and serve over fresh rice or greens.

What vegetables can I add to this recipe?

This is a flexible dish! Try adding shredded carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, snow peas, spinach, or broccoli florets. Add them in after the beef has browned so they stay crisp-tender.

Korean Beef Bowl

Name: Korean Beef Bowl
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; ¼ cup brown sugar, packed; ¼ cup reduced sodium soy sauce; 2 teaspoons sesame oil; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more to taste); ¼ teaspoon ground ginger; 2 green onions, thinly sliced; ¼ teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Description

This Korean Beef Bowl is a fast, flavorful dinner inspired by Korean bulgogi. Made with ground beef, sweet-salty sauce, and ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal for busy families or beginner cooks. A fantastic option for meal prep or anyone craving quick and healthy meals with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
¼ cup brown sugar, packed
¼ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
2 teaspoons sesame oil
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
2 green onions, thinly sliced
¼ teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, crushed red pepper flakes, and ground ginger until smooth and well combined. Set aside for later.
Cook the Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to brown or burn the garlic.
Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the garlic. Use a spatula to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the beef is fully browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasy sauce.
Combine with Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked beef and stir until the meat is evenly coated. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the beef.
Finish with Garnish: Turn off the heat and stir in the sliced green onions. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra texture and a subtle nutty finish if desired. Serve immediately over steamed rice or lettuce cups.

Notes

You can double the sauce if you prefer extra flavor for rice or noodles. This recipe freezes well; portion leftovers into bags or containers for future meals. If using lean meat, consider adding a splash of broth or a touch more sesame oil to keep it moist. For a low-carb version, serve with cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dinner, Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 365
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 80mg