Name: Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 cups cooked white rice; 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Savory, saucy, and absolutely satisfying, the Korean Ground Beef Bowl is your weeknight dinner hero. This bowl is layered with fluffy white rice, crisp cucumber slices, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and a sunny-side-up egg for that extra richness. The magic lies in the sweet and spicy sauce that coats the beef, delivering bold flavor in every bite.

It’s a beautiful fusion of Korean-inspired flavors that meets American convenience. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner or prepping for the week ahead, this dish offers simplicity without compromising taste. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable to suit your mood or pantry staples.

What Kind of Rice Should I Use for Korean Ground Beef Bowl?

Short-grain white rice, like sushi rice, is the classic base for Korean bowls thanks to its sticky texture. Jasmine rice or brown rice can work too if you’re looking for something a bit lighter or with more fiber. Just avoid overly dry varieties like basmati or long-grain unless you like a fluffier texture.

Ingredients for the Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Ground Beef – The star of the show. Choose lean ground beef for less grease and better texture.

Soy Sauce – Delivers umami depth and saltiness essential to Korean-style marinades.

Brown Sugar – Balances the soy sauce with sweetness and helps caramelize the beef.

Garlic and Ginger – These two bring the aromatic base that’s crucial in Korean cooking.

Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty, rich fragrance that elevates the whole bowl.

Cooked White Rice – Acts as a neutral bed to soak up all the juicy flavors.

Cucumber – Fresh, crunchy, and a cooling contrast to the spicy meat.

Egg – A runny yolk makes everything better. Adds creaminess and richness.

Green Onions and Sesame Seeds – For garnish, color, and a subtle crunch.

How To Make the Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Step 1: Prep the Rice

Start cooking your rice first since it takes the longest. Use a rice cooker or stovetop—just make sure it’s fluffy and slightly sticky for that authentic feel.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and break it apart. Cook until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add Flavor

Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the beef absorbs the flavor.

Step 4: Fry the Egg

In a separate pan, fry your egg sunny-side-up so the yolk remains soft. You can also poach or soft boil it if you prefer.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

Scoop cooked rice into a bowl. Top with the seasoned beef, sliced cucumber, and fried egg. Finish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

How to Serve and Store Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Serve immediately while everything is hot and the egg is fresh. If you’re meal prepping, store each component separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat the beef and rice before serving, and cook a fresh egg when ready to eat for best texture.

What to Serve With Korean Ground Beef Bowl?

Kimchi

Adds fermented tang and spice for a traditional Korean touch.

Spicy Pickled Radish

Crunchy and slightly sweet, it pairs beautifully with the beef.

Steamed Broccoli

A healthy green addition that soaks up the sauce well.

Seaweed Salad

For that ocean-kissed umami and a bit of texture.

Miso Soup

Light and comforting, this balances the richness of the bowl.

Korean Pancakes (Pajeon)

Savory and crispy, they make a great side or snack.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

For a touch of natural sweetness to contrast the savory beef.

Garlic Soy Green Beans

Crisp and savory, they’re easy to toss together in minutes.

Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you love this flavorful Korean bowl, you’ll want to try these next:

Easy Shepherd’s Pie with rich, meaty comfort in every layer.
Creamy Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta for ultra-cheesy goodness.
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight when you need a lighter but hearty meal.
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes for a quick sandwich twist.
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet to spice up your dinner routine.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this easy and flavorful meal to your favorite Pinterest board so you can whip it up whenever those takeout cravings strike.

Got a spicy twist or veggie addition you love? Share your version in the comments below—I’d love to hear what you did with it.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. You might just find your next go-to dinner!

Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 bowls

Print Recipe

Description

Ready in just 30 minutes, this Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a weeknight dinner lifesaver! Packed with sweet and savory flavor, it layers juicy soy-garlic beef over fluffy white rice, topped with a runny egg and crunchy cucumbers. Whether you’re into quick breakfast, easy dinner, or looking for healthy snack options that are meal-prep friendly and satisfying, this is a keeper! Great for dinner ideas, easy recipes, or food ideas when you’re short on time but not on flavor.