Bowl of Korean ground beef served over steamed white rice with sesame seeds, chopped red peppers, and green onions

Korean Ground Beef Rice Bowls

by

Sweet, savory, and ready in 20 minutes

Craving that irresistible Korean takeout flavor — but faster and healthier? Meet your new weeknight hero: Korean Ground Beef Rice Bowls! 🍛 This dish combines juicy ground beef with a perfectly balanced sauce of soy, garlic, sesame, and brown sugar for that classic sweet-salty punch. Served over fluffy rice and topped with scallions and sesame seeds, it’s a meal that’s both comforting and energizing. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights, quick lunches, or meal prep days. Each bite delivers bold, umami-rich flavor that feels indulgent but keeps things simple, budget-friendly, and totally delicious.

Time Breakdown

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4

📝Ingredients List

  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground chicken for a lighter option)
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup brown sugar (or honey)
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
  • 3 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Steamed veggies (optional: broccoli, carrots, or snap peas)

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free:

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Cutting board & knife
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Mixing bowl
  • Rice cooker or saucepan (for the rice)
  • 👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
  1. 🔥 Cook the beef: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly (about 5 minutes).
  2. 🧄 Add flavor: Stir in garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. 🍯 Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Pour over the beef.
  4. 🍳 Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer 3–4 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly and coat the meat.
  5. 🍚 Assemble: Spoon the beef mixture over warm rice. Top with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and optional veggies.
  6. 🥢 Serve & enjoy: Drizzle with extra sesame oil for shine and flavor if desired.

✨ Multitasking tip: While the beef simmers, steam your veggies or reheat leftover rice to save time.

Pro Tips

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in airtight containers up to 4 days; reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
  • Healthier Swap: Use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute with crumbled tofu or lentils for the same saucy goodness.
  • Meal Prep Win: Store rice and beef separately for easy weekday lunches.

Nutrition Table

Serving SizeCaloriesProteinCarbsFatFiberSugar
1 bowl47028g40g20g2g12g