Korean Beef Bowl: The Ultimate Weeknight Dinner That Tastes Like Korean BBQ
This Korean Beef Bowl tastes just like Korean BBQ (bulgogi) but comes together fast enough for a busy weeknight. Sweet, savory, and slightly spicy, it’s a one-pan meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort—perfect over steamed rice or tucked into lettuce wraps.
Ingredients
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¼ cup brown sugar, packed
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¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
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2 teaspoons sesame oil
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½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
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¼ teaspoon ground ginger
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 pound ground beef
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2 green onions, thinly sliced
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¼ teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
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Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and ground ginger. Set aside. -
Cook the Beef
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add the ground beef and cook for 3–5 minutes, breaking it apart, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. -
Combine and Simmer
Stir in the prepared sauce and green onions. Let the mixture simmer for about 2 minutes, until heated through and well coated. -
Serve
Serve immediately over rice, garnished with extra green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
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Serve over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
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Adjust spice by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes.
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Add veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
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Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.