Description

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, flavorful bowl of Korean-style beef over steaming rice. This dish is packed with savory, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy flavors that make every bite satisfying. If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, this Korean beef bowl is a game-changer.

With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a meal that tastes like it took hours to make. The best part? It’s a one-pan dish that comes together in less than 30 minutes! Perfect for busy evenings when you want something homemade but don’t have the energy for an elaborate meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef:

1 lb ground beef
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
¼ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For Serving:

2 cups cooked rice
2 green onions, chopped
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
½ cup shredded carrots (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir well and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and cornstarch (if using). Pour this mixture into the pan with the beef and stir well, making sure the meat is evenly coated. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowl

Spoon the cooked beef over a bowl of warm rice. Top with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and shredded carrots for added crunch and color.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Your Korean beef bowl is ready to serve! Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal.

Notes

If you prefer a saucier dish, add an extra splash of soy sauce or a tablespoon of beef broth.
The brown sugar balances out the saltiness, but you can reduce it slightly if you prefer a less sweet taste.
Leftover beef can be used in tacos, wraps, or even over a salad for a quick lunch the next day.