Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick and tasty dish that’s full of bold flavors and satisfying textures. It features savory ground beef cooked with garlic and ginger, seasoned with soy sauce and a touch of sweetness, all served over warm rice. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions add a nice fresh crunch to every bite.
I love how easy this bowl comes together, especially on busy weeknights. It feels like you’re eating something special without putting in a ton of effort. Plus, it’s super customizable—I often add some steamed veggies or a fried egg on top to make it even more filling and colorful.
My favorite way to enjoy this is with a side of kimchi or some quick pickled cucumbers for a little zing. It’s the kind of meal that hits the spot and leaves you feeling happy and full. Every time I make it, I find myself reaching for seconds and thinking about making it again soon!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for a balance of flavor and less grease. You can easily swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter version.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste adds great depth and mild heat. If you don’t have it, red pepper flakes work as a simple substitute, just add a little less to control spice level.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce keeps the salt in check without sacrificing flavor. Tamari is a good gluten-free option.
Rice: Jasmine or short-grain rice works best for its sticky texture, which helps hold everything together. Brown rice is a healthier swap but takes longer to cook.
Vegetables: Fresh carrot, cucumber, and blanched spinach add refreshing crunch and color. Feel free to swap with quick-pickled veggies or kimchi for extra tang.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sunny-Side-Up Egg for This Bowl?
A runny yolk makes this bowl extra delicious by adding richness. Here’s how I cook mine:
- Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat and add a teaspoon of oil or butter.
- Crack the egg gently into the pan to keep yolk intact.
- Cook without flipping until the whites are set but the yolk remains jiggly, about 2-3 minutes.
- If needed, cover the pan with a lid to help whites cook through evenly without flipping.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper right before serving.
Take your time here—low heat and patience give you that tender white and runny yolk, which is worth it!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking ground beef evenly and mixing in the sauce.
- Nonstick frying pan – great for frying eggs without sticking or breaking the yolk.
- Rice cooker or medium saucepan with lid – makes cooking fluffy rice simple and reliable.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for chopping garlic, ginger, green onions, and slicing veggies safely.
- Measuring spoons and cups – help you get accurate amounts of sauces and spices for the best flavor balance.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to make it lighter and still tasty.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and a bit more texture.
- Top with a fried or poached egg, or even a soft-boiled egg for a creamy yolk in every bite.
- Mix in kimchi or quick-pickled radishes to add a tangy kick and crunch.
How to Make Korean Ground Beef Bowl?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup jasmine or short-grain white rice
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste) or substitute with a small pinch of red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
Vegetables & Garnishes:
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded
- 1 cup fresh spinach, blanched or steamed
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend 15 minutes preparing and cooking the rice and beef, 5 minutes frying the eggs and dressing the vegetables, and just a few minutes assembling everything. It’s a quick yet flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy days.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions until the rice is tender and fluffy. Once done, fluff it with a fork and keep it warm while you prepare the rest.
2. Make the Flavorful Beef:
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, gochujang (or red pepper flakes if using), and black pepper. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef nicely. Remove from heat.
3. Cook the Eggs and Prepare Vegetables:
In a separate nonstick pan, fry the eggs sunny-side up until whites are set but yolks are still runny, or cook to your liking.
Arrange shredded carrots, blanched spinach, and cucumber slices around the edges of each bowl for a fresh and colorful touch.
4. Assemble Your Bowl:
Divide the cooked rice into serving bowls. Spoon the flavorful beef over the rice. Place a fried egg in the center of each bowl. Garnish with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little extra heat.
Serve immediately and enjoy mixing all the delicious flavors together!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the ground beef completely in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Make Korean Ground Beef Bowl Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Cook the beef and rice ahead and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat both gently on the stove or microwave, then fry fresh eggs to serve on top.
What Are Good Vegetarian Substitutes for Ground Beef?
Try using crumbled tofu or cooked lentils as a plant-based alternative. You can season them with the same sauce ingredients to keep that tasty Korean flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and add a fresh fried egg or steamed veggies to brighten up the meal when serving again.