Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a simple and tasty meal that packs a punch with just a few ingredients. It combines savory ground beef cooked with soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, served over fluffy rice and topped with fresh green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. The flavors are bold but easy to make, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
I love making this dish when I want something comforting but quick. The ground beef cooks up fast, and the sauce comes together in minutes. Sometimes, I add a little bit of chili flakes for a subtle kick, which my family always enjoys. It’s one of those meals that feel like a warm hug in a bowl.
My favorite way to serve this bowl is with a side of steamed or sautéed vegetables, like broccoli or snap peas, to add some crunch and color. It’s also fantastic for meal prep because it reheats well and tastes just as good the next day. This Korean Ground Beef Bowl has become one of those go-to dishes I keep coming back to because it’s just so satisfying and easy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the heart of the dish, offering rich flavor and texture. For a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. If you want more depth, add a bit of ground pork.
Soy sauce: Provides that essential salty, umami flavor. Use tamari or coconut aminos if you need a gluten-free alternative.
Brown sugar: Balances the salty soy sauce with sweetness. Honey or maple syrup can work too, but reduce the amount slightly as they are sweeter.
Sesame oil: Adds a toasty aroma and flavor. If unavailable, substitute with a mild oil like vegetable or canola, though the flavor will be less traditional.
Green onions and sesame seeds: Give freshness and a bit of crunch. Feel free to swap sesame seeds with chopped peanuts or omit if allergic.
How Do You Get the Perfect Fried Egg for This Bowl?
A runny yolk adds richness and a creamy texture that ties the beef and rice together. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a bit of oil or cooking spray.
- Crack eggs carefully into the pan without breaking the yolk.
- Cook until whites are set but yolks remain soft, about 2-3 minutes.
- For firmer yolks, cover the pan briefly or flip the egg for a minute.
- Use a spatula to gently lift the egg onto the bowl without breaking it.
With practice, you’ll master eggs that add a velvety texture to every bite!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking ground beef evenly and mixing the sauce flavors.
- Non-stick frying pan – helps to cook the eggs without sticking or breaking the yolks.
- Spatula – makes it easy to break up beef and flip eggs gently.
- Knife and cutting board – needed to chop garlic, green onions, carrots, and cucumbers.
- Rice cooker or pot – for perfectly cooked, fluffy rice to serve as the base.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground pork or turkey for a different taste and a leaner option.
- Add kimchi on the side for a spicy, tangy contrast that brightens the bowl.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients and texture.
- Top with a drizzle of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to turn up the heat and add depth.
How to Make Korean Ground Beef Bowl?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 3 green onions, sliced (separate white and green parts)
- 2 cups cooked white rice (short grain or jasmine rice preferred)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted
- Vegetable oil or cooking spray for frying eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
It takes about 20 minutes total—10 minutes for prep, 7-8 minutes for cooking the beef and eggs, plus a few minutes to assemble the bowls. Quick and simple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Beef:
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and the white parts of green onions. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook, breaking up pieces with a spatula, until fully browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef. Season with salt and pepper if needed.
2. Preparing the Fried Eggs:
While the beef cooks, heat a small amount of vegetable oil or cooking spray in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Crack the eggs and cook until the whites are set but yolks still runny, about 2-3 minutes. For firmer yolks, cook a bit longer or flip gently.
3. Assembling the Bowl:
Place a generous serving of cooked white rice in each bowl. Top with the Korean ground beef mixture. Add fresh julienned carrots and cucumber slices on the side for crunch and color. Place a fried egg on top. Garnish with green parts of sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and a pinch of extra red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Serve immediately and mix before eating to enjoy all the delicious flavors together.
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well as leaner alternatives. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since they may cook a bit faster and adjust seasoning as needed.
How Can I Store Leftover Korean Ground Beef Bowl?
Store leftover beef and rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove. Add a fresh fried egg when serving for the best experience.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Swap regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to make it gluten-free. Make sure other ingredients like sesame oil are also gluten-free labeled.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Eggs?
Frying the eggs sunny side up with runny yolks is ideal, as the yolk adds richness to the dish. Use a non-stick pan and low-medium heat to prevent sticking and overcooking.
