This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a fast, comforting meal packed with savory flavors and perfect for busy days. Made with tender ground beef, fragrant garlic and ginger, and a rich soy-sesame sauce, it comes together in one pan and pairs beautifully with fluffy rice. It’s simple, satisfying, and easy to customize with your favorite toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick enough for weeknights yet flavorful enough to feel special. It uses pantry-friendly ingredients, requires minimal prep, and cooks in under 30 minutes from start to finish. The balance of savory, slightly sweet, and nutty flavors makes it appealing to both kids and adults, and it works equally well for meal prep or a freshly cooked dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the ground beef:

1 pound ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
2 green onions, chopped
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste

For the rice:

1 cup uncooked jasmine, basmati, or long-grain rice
2 cups water

Optional toppings and additions:

1 teaspoon sesame seeds
1/2 cup sliced cucumber
1/2 cup sautéed or steamed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, or spinach)
4 fried eggs, one per serving (optional)

Directions

Start by cooking the rice. Rinse the uncooked rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice and water in a pot, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
While the rice cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes.
If there is excess fat in the skillet, carefully drain it. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the beef and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, chopped green onions, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors combine.
To assemble, divide the cooked rice evenly among four bowls. Spoon the ground beef mixture over the rice. Add any optional vegetables or toppings, and finish with sesame seeds or a fried egg if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 generous servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

You can easily adapt this dish to suit different tastes. Swap the ground beef for ground chicken or ground turkey for a lighter version. Add extra vegetables directly into the skillet for a more colorful, nutrient-packed bowl. For a spicy twist, mix in a small amount of chili paste or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also serve it over cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, store the rice and beef separately. Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through, or reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is great for meal prep and can be made up to three days in advance.

What type of rice works best?

Jasmine rice is traditional, but basmati, long-grain white rice, or brown rice all work well.

Can I freeze Korean ground beef?

Yes, the cooked beef can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Is this recipe very salty?

It is moderately savory. You can reduce the soy sauce slightly if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I add vegetables directly to the beef?

Yes, finely sliced vegetables can be sautéed with the beef for added texture and nutrition.

What can I use instead of sesame oil?

You can use a mild neutral oil, but sesame oil provides the signature nutty flavor.

How do I keep the beef from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and keep the heat at medium once the seasoning is added.

Can kids enjoy this recipe?

Yes, it’s very family-friendly and can be adjusted to be less salty or spicy.

What can I serve on the side?

A simple cucumber salad or lightly sautéed vegetables pair well with this dish.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use a large skillet to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a reliable, flavorful recipe that fits effortlessly into a busy schedule. With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and endless customization options, it’s the kind of meal you’ll come back to again and again. Serve it fresh, pack it for lunch, or enjoy it as an easy family dinner—it delivers comfort and flavor every time.