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Quick & Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl – Better Than Takeout!

Korean Ground Beef Bowl

A quick and flavorful Korean-inspired ground beef bowl with sweet and savory flavors and a touch of heat. Ready in just 20 minutes and served over rice with customizable toppings, this dish delivers better-than-takeout taste at home.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Korean
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef lean
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 0.25 cup soy sauce low sodium if preferred
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger or 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 2 cups cooked rice white, brown, or cauliflower
  • green onions for topping, optional
  • sesame seeds for topping, optional
  • shredded carrots for topping, optional
  • cucumber slices for topping, optional

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Rice cooker or pot for rice
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and fresh ginger to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let everything simmer for 2-3 minutes so the flavors can blend together.
  4. Serve hot over cooked rice and top with your favorite toppings such as green onions, sesame seeds, shredded carrots, or cucumber slices.
Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale - Kitchen Equipment Recommendation

Notes

Meal Prep Friendly: Double the batch and keep portions in the fridge for up to 4 days, it reheats beautifully.
Fried Egg Topping: Add a fried egg on top for an extra layer of richness.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and ginger if possible for the best flavor.
Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice to keep it keto-friendly.
Spice Control: Adjust the heat by adding more gochujang or red pepper flakes, or omit them entirely for a milder version.
Vegan Version: Substitute crumbled tofu or meatless ground and adjust the sauce with extra soy sauce and sesame oil.
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