Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Discover the deliciousness of a Korean Ground Beef Bowl! This hearty dish combines marinated ground beef with aromatic vegetables, fluffy jasmine rice, and a flavorful sauce that captures the essence of Korean cuisine. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. Dive into a culinary journey filled with vibrant flavors, cultural significance, and customizable options. Embrace the warmth of Korean cooking in your own home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of marinated ground beef and fresh vegetables creates a delightful taste experience.
- Customizable Options: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a healthy choice for dinner.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, this bowl is sure to impress.

Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Rice cooker or pot
- Measuring cups
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for evenly cooking the ground beef and allowing flavors to meld together.
- Rice cooker or pot: Ensures perfectly cooked jasmine rice that complements the beef bowl beautifully.
- Knife and cutting board: Necessary for chopping vegetables efficiently and safely.
Ingredients
For the Beef Marinade
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Bowl Assembly
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, julienned
- Green onions, sliced for garnish
- Sesame seeds for topping
How to Make Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and minced garlic.
- Add the ground beef to the marinade and mix well until fully coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated ground beef to the skillet.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spoon until browned and cooked through.
Step 3: Steam Vegetables
- While the beef cooks, steam broccoli florets until tender but crisp (about 3-4 minutes).
- Set aside once cooked.
Step 4: Assemble Your Bowl
- Start by placing a generous scoop of cooked jasmine rice at the bottom of each bowl.
- Top with cooked ground beef followed by steamed broccoli and julienned carrots.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
Enjoy your homemade Korean Ground Beef Bowl!
How to Serve Korean Ground Beef Bowl
A Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
Pairing with Fresh Vegetables
- Crispy Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that balances the richness of the beef.
- Steamed Broccoli: Adds a nutritious crunch and vibrant color to your bowl.
Adding a Fried Egg
- Sunny-Side-Up Egg: Topping your bowl with a runny egg brings creaminess and extra flavor.
- Scrambled Eggs: For a quicker option, scrambled eggs can be mixed right into the beef.
Serving with Pickled Ingredients
- Kimchi: This fermented dish adds a spicy kick and probiotic benefits.
- Pickled Radishes: Their tanginess complements the savory beef perfectly.
Garnishing with Green Onions
- Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle them on top for added freshness and flavor.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds can provide a lovely crunch and nutty aroma.
How to Perfect Korean Ground Beef Bowl
To make your Korean Ground Beef Bowl truly exceptional, consider these tips.
- Use Quality Meat: Choosing fresh ground beef enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
- Marinate Well: Allowing the beef to sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes deepens the taste.
- Cook on High Heat: Cooking quickly at high heat ensures the beef stays tender and juicy.
- Balance Flavors: Taste as you go; adjust soy sauce, sugar, or spice levels to suit your palate.
Best Side Dishes for Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Complementing your Korean Ground Beef Bowl with side dishes can create a more satisfying meal. Here are some great options.
- Korean Spinach Salad: Lightly seasoned spinach tossed with sesame oil adds nutrition and flavor.
- Steamed Dumplings: These savory bites are perfect for dipping in soy sauce.
- Rice Paper Rolls: Fresh rolls filled with vegetables provide a crunchy contrast.
- Miso Soup: A warm, comforting broth that pairs well with hearty meals.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory beef bowl.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can refresh your palate after the rich flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking a Korean Ground Beef Bowl can be easy, but there are some common missteps to watch out for.
- seasoning choice: Using too little or too much seasoning can ruin the dish. Start with small amounts and adjust to your taste.
- overcooking the beef: Overcooked ground beef can become tough. Cook just until browned for the best texture.
- neglecting the veggies: Skipping vegetables means missing out on flavor and nutrition. Always include fresh or stir-fried veggies for balance.
- ignoring the rice: Using the wrong type of rice can affect the dish’s overall taste. Choose jasmine rice for its aromatic qualities.
- skipping garnishes: Failing to add garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions makes it less visually appealing. Top your bowl with these ingredients for a vibrant finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.
Freezing Korean Ground Beef Bowl
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 2–3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Korean Ground Beef Bowl
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Korean Ground Beef Bowl.
What is a Korean Ground Beef Bowl?
A Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a flavorful dish made from marinated ground beef served over rice, typically garnished with vegetables and sauces.
How can I customize my Korean Ground Beef Bowl?
You can add various vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers. Additionally, try different sauces to elevate the flavors further.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! You can add gochujang (Korean chili paste) or red pepper flakes to increase the heat level according to your preference.
What can I serve with my Korean Ground Beef Bowl?
This dish pairs well with kimchi, pickled vegetables, or a simple side salad for added freshness and crunch.
Final Thoughts
The Korean Ground Beef Bowl is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for any night of the week. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the rich flavors of Korean cuisine right at home!
Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Discover the joy of cooking with this Korean Ground Beef Bowl, a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings the rich flavors of Korean cuisine right to your kitchen. Combining marinated ground beef with fresh vegetables and fluffy jasmine rice, this recipe is packed with taste and nutrition. Perfect for busy weeknights, it takes just 30 minutes to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal without the fuss. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this customizable bowl is sure to impress, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, julienned
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and garlic. Add ground beef; let marinate for 10 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat; cook marinated beef for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Steam broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Assemble your bowl: start with jasmine rice, then layer with beef, broccoli, carrots, and garnishes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg