This Korean ground beef bowl is one of those dinners I make when I need something fast but still comforting. It comes together in one pan and feels warm and filling without a lot of effort.
I like making this on busy weeknights when everyone is hungry and I do not want to think too hard about dinner. It is simple, reliable, and always a hit at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Korean Ground Beef Bowl
- It is ready in under 30 minutes
- Everything cooks in one skillet
- The ingredients are easy to find
- It is budget-friendly
- Leftovers reheat really well
- Everyone can customize their bowl
What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?
Lean ground beef works best for this recipe. It provides a good flavor without excessive grease. If your beef releases extra fat while cooking, drain it off before adding the sauce.
I usually grab lean ground beef because it keeps the dish lighter and less messy. Regular ground beef works too if that is what you have.
Options for Substitutes
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef
- Use honey if you are out of brown sugar
- Use bottled minced garlic and ginger to save time
- Use white rice instead of brown rice
- Skip the red pepper if you prefer mild food
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
- Do not overcrowd the pan when browning the beef.
- Break the meat into small pieces so it cooks evenly.
- Stir the sauce well so the sugar dissolves fully.
- Let the beef simmer in the sauce so it absorbs flavor.
What to Serve With Korean Ground Beef Bowl?
- This dish is great served simply over rice.
- Steamed broccoli or green beans make an easy side.
- A simple cucumber salad works well for freshness.
- You can also add a fried or soft egg on top if you like.
Storage Instructions
- Let the beef cool before storing.
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
- Store rice separately if possible so it reheats better.
How to Make Korean Ground Beef Bowl?
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 5 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- ½ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 6 green onions, chopped, divided
- 4 cups hot cooked brown rice
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1:
Gather all ingredients before starting.

Step 2:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring and breaking it into small pieces, until browned.
Drain off any excess grease.

Step 3:
Add the crushed garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil to the skillet.
Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring, until fragrant.

Step 4:
Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, and crushed red pepper.
Cook for about 7 minutes, letting the beef absorb some of the sauce.

Step 5:
Stir in half of the chopped green onions.

Step 6:
Serve the beef over hot cooked brown rice.
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and the remaining green onions before serving.


Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Gather all ingredients before starting.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring and breaking it into small pieces, until browned.
- Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the crushed garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil to the skillet.
- Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring, until fragrant.
- Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, and crushed red pepper.
- Cook for about 7 minutes, letting the beef absorb some of the sauce.
- Stir in half of the chopped green onions.
- Serve the beef over hot cooked brown rice.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and the remaining green onions before serving.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 574 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 70 gm |
| Fat | 19 gm |
| Protein | 29 gm |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

I’m Emma Parker, the writer and founder behind Emma’s Home Guide. This blog was created to share practical ideas, honest experiences, and helpful guidance for everyday living. My goal is to make home life feel easier, warmer, and more enjoyable, without pressure or perfection.





