Korean Ground Beef Bowl

The ultimate 20-minute weeknight dinner.

This dish mimics the flavors of Bulgogi (Korean BBQ beef) using budget-friendly ground beef. It's high in protein, infinitely customizable, and perfect for meal prep.

🕒 Prep & Cook

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 10-15 minutes

Servings: 4

🛒 Ingredients

The Beef & Sauce

1 lb (450g) Lean Ground Beef (90% lean is best)

3-4 cloves Garlic, minced

1 tsp Fresh Ginger, grated (or 1/4 tsp ground ginger)

1/3 cup Low-sodium Soy Sauce (or Tamari for GF)

1/4 cup Brown Sugar (packed)

1 tbsp Toasted Sesame Oil

1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (adjust for heat)

1/4 tsp Black Pepper

For Serving

2 cups Cooked White or Brown Rice

2 Green Onions, thinly sliced

1 tsp Toasted Sesame Seeds

Optional Toppings: Sliced cucumbers, Kimchi, shredded carrots, or a fried egg.

🍳 Instructions

Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbly (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess grease.

Whisk the Sauce: While the beef cooks, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, red pepper flakes, and black pepper in a small bowl.

Simmer: Pour the sauce over the cooked beef. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. This allows the beef to absorb the flavors and the sugar to caramelize slightly, creating a glossy glaze.

Assemble: Serve the beef over bowls of hot rice.

Garnish: Top generously with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and your choice of fresh vegetables or kimchi.

🔥 Pro-Tips & Variations

Make it Spicy: Add 1 tablespoon of Gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the sauce for a deeper, fermented heat.

The "Bulgogi" Secret: For a more authentic flavor, grate 2 tablespoons of an Asian Pear or a sweet apple into the sauce. The enzymes help tenderize the meat and add a unique floral sweetness.

Low Carb: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or serve the beef in large butter lettuce leaves as "lettuce wraps."

Extra Veggies: You can stir-fry broccoli florets or snap peas directly with the beef once it's browned.

📊 Nutrition (Per Serving)

Estimate based on 90% lean beef and 1/2 cup white rice.

Nutrient

Amount

Calories

410 kcal

Protein

26g

Fat

12g