Easy 15-Minute Korean Ground Beef Bowls

15-Minute Korean Beef is the perfect weeknight dinner! Cook ground beef with a simple Korean-inspired sauce that uses just a few pantry ingredients.

This recipe for Korean beef is not only quick to make in just 15 minutes but it’s also an affordable option since it uses ground beef instead of a flank sirloin like in traditional Korean beef recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Korean Beef Bowls:

The ingredients you need for this Korean beef bowl recipe are all easy and you likely have them all on hand!

• Ground Beef – I prefer to use a leaner ground beef, but you can just drain off any excess fat as well.
• Garlic – freshly minced is best, but the pre-minced garlic in the jar works too.
• Canola Oil – or another neutral oil like avocado oil
• Korean-Inspired Sauce: Brown Sugar, Soy Sauce, Sesame Oil, Red Pepper Flakes, Ground Ginger
• Sliced Green Onions and Sesame Seeds – for garnish
• Cooked Rice and Steamed Veggies – for serving

How to make the Korean Ground Beef:

1. Make the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and ground ginger.
2. Cook the beef. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and brown, crumbling as it cooks. About 3-5 minutes. Drain off the excess fat and return the skillet to the stove. Add the garlic and sauté for a minute, until fragrant and softened.
3. Combine with the sauce. Add the sauce to the ground beef. Stir to combine and allow to simmer over medium about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. 
4. Serve and enjoy. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with cooked rice and steamed vegetables. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use something else other than ground beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute another ground meat. Ground chicken or ground turkey are great swaps for a lighter option.

Can this be used for meal prep? Leftovers?

This recipe is PERFECT for meal prep! I like to package up containers with rice, the beef, and some steamed veggies so I have pre-portioned meals for the week. It heats up well in the microwave and keeps in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Serving Suggestions

• White Rice, Brown Rice, Cauliflower Rice, or another grain such as Quinoa
• Steamed or sautéed veggies – I love broccoli with it!
• Garnish with some sliced green onions and extra sesame seeds

Other Takeout Inspired Recipes:

• Air Fryer Orange Chicken – Crispy breaded pieces of chicken thighs are tossed in a super easy orange sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes and family friendly!
• Easy Sesame Chicken – No frying in this recipe so it’s healthier than the traditional version and it’s all made in one pan. 
• Slow Cooker Butter Chicken – Serve with white rice and even naan to satisfy your Indian food craving. Using coconut milk keeps the sauce from feeling too heavy.

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