If you’re looking for a quick, affordable, and flavor-packed dinner, this Korean Ground Beef and Rice Recipe is a must-try! Inspired by traditional Korean bulgogi, this dish delivers savory, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy flavors in every bite. Best of all, it’s ready in just 30 minutes and requires simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
For those who love easy and delicious beef dishes, try the Shaved Beef Steak Recipe for another quick and flavorful dinner idea.
Why You’ll Love This Korean Ground Beef and Rice Recipe
- Fast & Easy: Perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses ground beef and pantry staples.
- Versatile: Serve it over rice, lettuce wraps, or even in tacos.
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, and sesame oil creates an authentic Korean taste.
Before making this dish, learn about essential Korean cooking ingredients that help enhance flavor and authenticity.
Ingredients for the Best Korean Ground Beef and Rice Recipe
Here’s everything you need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (85-90% lean recommended)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup soy sauce (use low-sodium for a healthier option)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (balances the savory soy sauce)
- 2 tsp sesame oil (adds a nutty, authentic Korean taste)
- ¼ tsp ground ginger (adds depth of flavor)
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- Sliced green onions & sesame seeds (for garnish)
Pair this dish with a light and fresh Italian Green Salad to balance out the flavors.
How to Make Korean Ground Beef and Rice
1️⃣ Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Drain excess fat.
2️⃣ Prepare the Sweet-Savory Korean Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Soy sauce
- Brown sugar
- Minced garlic
- Ginger
- Red pepper flakes
- Black pepper
3️⃣ Combine & Simmer
- Pour the sauce over the beef and stir well.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors develop.
4️⃣ Serve Over Rice & Enjoy!
- Spoon the beef over hot cooked rice.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
For more comforting beef recipes, check out the Classic Beef Stew Recipe for a hearty, slow-cooked meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Korean Ground Beef and Rice
. Get a Richer Flavor: Let the beef caramelize slightly before stirring.
. Make it Spicier: Add 1 tbsp gochujang or extra red pepper flakes.
. Meal Prep Friendly: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
For more about the health benefits of ginger and garlic, read this Healthline guide.
Tasty Variations of Korean Ground Beef and Rice
🔥 Spicy Korean Ground Beef: Add 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste).
🥦 Vegetable-Packed Beef Bowl: Toss in broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers.
🥩 Different Proteins: Swap beef for ground turkey or tofu.
🍚 Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice.
For another delicious beef-based breakfast option, try Classic Beef & Eggs with Toast.
Best Ways to Serve Korean Ground Beef and Rice
- Over steamed rice with sesame seeds
- In a lettuce wrap for a low-carb meal
- Stuffed into tacos for a fusion twist
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or tofu all work well in this recipe.
❓ What’s the best rice for Korean Ground Beef and Rice?
- Jasmine rice (best for fluffy texture)
- Brown rice (healthier, with more fiber)
- Cauliflower rice (for a low-carb option)
❓ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat on the stove.
Understanding Korean Cooking Basics
Before making this dish, it’s helpful to learn about essential Korean ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and gochujang. Check out this Korean Cooking Essentials Guide to bring authentic flavors to your homemade meals.
Health Benefits of Garlic & Ginger
Garlic and ginger are key ingredients in this recipe, offering anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits. Learn more about their nutritional value in this Healthline article on Ginger & Garlic Benefits.
Best Types of Rice for Asian Dishes
Choosing the right rice variety enhances the dish’s flavor and texture. Whether you prefer jasmine, brown, or sticky rice, check out this Guide to the Best Rice for Asian Cuisine to make the perfect choice!
Final Thoughts on Korean Ground Beef and Rice
This Korean Ground Beef and Rice Recipe is a quick, delicious, and family-friendly meal that delivers authentic Korean flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or prepping meals for the week, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
🔥 Try it today and let us know your favorite way to serve it! 🥢
Did You Try Our Recipe ?
Easy Korean Ground Beef and Rice Recipe – Quick & Flavorful
Delicious & Super Easy Weeknight Meal!
I recently tried this Easy Korean Ground Beef and Rice Recipe, and it did not disappoint! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick but still packed with flavor. The combination of savory, slightly sweet, and garlicky beef over warm rice is absolutely comforting.
The best part? It comes together in about 20 minutes with simple pantry ingredients. The sauce—made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil—coats the beef perfectly, creating that signature Korean-inspired taste. I also love the addition of crushed red pepper for a little kick!
I served it over jasmine rice and added some steamed broccoli for extra veggies. You could also top it with a fried egg or fresh green onions for even more flavor.
Final Verdict:
✔ Quick & easy
✔ Minimal ingredients
✔ Big, bold flavors
This recipe is definitely going into my regular rotation. Highly recommend for anyone who loves Korean flavors but doesn’t have time for a complicated meal!