aving a quick and flavorful meal? The Korean Ground Beef Bowl brings the bold, savory flavors of Korean cuisine right to your table in just 25 minutes. This one-pan dish combines seasoned ground beef with aromatic garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice. It's customizable with optional toppings like sesame seeds, kimchi, or a fried egg, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Essential 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
Optional Ingredients
Vegetables: bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or spinach
Egg: a fried egg on top for added richness
1. Prepare the Rice
Stovetop Method: Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs 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 until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Rice Cooker: Add rinsed rice and water to your rice cooker, close the lid, and let it cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Instant Pot: Combine rinsed rice and water in the pot. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes, then allow a natural release.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Brown until it’s no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.
Drain excess fat if necessary. Then, add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld together.
3. Assemble the Bowl
Spoon a generous amount of cooked rice into the bottom of your bowl.
Top the rice with the seasoned ground beef mixture.
Add any additional vegetables, such as steamed broccoli or sliced bell peppers, on top or around the beef.
Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and any other toppings you prefer, like kimchi or a fried egg.
Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
Protein: ~30g
Carbohydrates: ~40g
Fat: ~15g
Fiber: ~2g