Korean Beef Bowl Recipe: Easy, Flavorful, and Ready in 20 Minutes
Looking for a quick and satisfying meal packed with bold Asian flavors? This Korean Beef Bowl recipe is a perfect go-to! Made with ground beef, garlic, ginger, and a sweet-savory sauce, it delivers the classic taste of Korean bulgogi in a simplified, weeknight-friendly format.
🥢 What is a Korean Beef Bowl?
A Korean Beef Bowl is a simplified version of bulgogi (Korean marinated beef), where ground beef is cooked with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar, then served over warm white rice. It’s a comforting fusion of sweet, salty, and umami flavors—ideal for a fast dinner or meal prep.
🛒 Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
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1 lb (450g) ground beef
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
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1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tbsp sesame oil
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1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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2 green onions, sliced
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1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
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2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice/quinoa as alternatives)
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Steamed vegetables (broccoli, spinach, or carrots – optional but recommended)
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add aromatics
Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the sauce
Add soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the bowl
Serve the beef mixture over a bed of warm rice. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Add steamed veggies for extra nutrition and crunch.
🍽️ Why You’ll Love This Korean Beef Bowl
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Ready in under 20 minutes
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One-pan cleanup
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Budget-friendly ingredients
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Meal-prep approved
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Kid- and family-friendly flavors
🔁 Variations & Tips
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Swap the protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a lighter version.
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Low-carb option: Serve with cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
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Add more veggies: Toss in shredded cabbage, zucchini, or bell peppers during cooking.
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Extra spice? Add Gochujang (Korean chili paste) for authentic heat.
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📝 Final Thoughts
This Korean Beef Bowl is the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t compromise on flavor or time. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or just craving something savory and satisfying, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.