Looking for a quick and satisfying dinner that packs bold flavor? These Korean Ground Beef and Rice Bowls are the ultimate go-to! With savory sweet beef served over a bed of steaming rice and topped with green onions and sesame seeds, this dish comes together in just 20 minutes perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss. The magic lies in the simple sauce made from soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil, giving the beef that addictive Korean BBQ style taste. Whether you’re a beginner cook or just short on time, this recipe is a winner the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Done in just 20 minutes.
  • Budget Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
  • Flavorful: Sweet, salty, and a little spicy!

Tips for Success

  • Use 90% lean beef to avoid too much grease.
  • Add steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, or cucumber slices to turn it into a complete bowl.
  • Brown sugar adds that authentic Korean BBQ sweetness, don’t skip it!

Korean Ground Beef and Rice Bowls

This Korean Ground Beef and Rice Bowl is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner made with seasoned ground beef simmered in a savory sweet sauce. Served over hot rice and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, it’s a delicious meal ready in just 20 minutes!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound lean ground beef 90% lean
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional for spice
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • Sliced green onions for garnish
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and garlic. Cook while breaking up the meat with a spatula until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
  • Pour the sauce over the cooked beef in the skillet. Stir to coat the meat evenly and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors can meld.
  • Spoon the beef over bowls of hot rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Add steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, or a fried egg on top to make it a full rice bowl meal!