Pin it
Korean Beef Bowl
Just like eating at a Korean BBQ joint but ready in only 15 minutes from start to finish! Nothing gets simpler than this!
This shows up on my table weekly. I double the batch every time. We pair it with white rice of any kind and either steamed broccoli or wrap it in romaine lettuce leaves. It's a hit with everyone. My mom adores it despite living in Korea for a decade. My kid can't get enough. I throw in some hot pepper paste and cut back on sugar sometimes. Such a fantastic and simple dish!!!
Let me introduce one of our top hits on Damn Delicious - these amazing Korean beef bowls. We've tweaked the classic Korean bulgogi by using ground beef instead of thinly cut sirloin. Traditional bulgogi sits in marinade overnight to get extra tender and flavorful, but our quick ground beef take gives you those same great tastes in no time flat.
Pin it
what makes this dish special
Perfect for busy nights. These bowls need just a few ingredients and come together super fast. The actual cooking only takes about 10-15 minutes, and if you've got leftover rice hanging around, you'll be eating in under 20 minutes.
Easy on your wallet. With basic pantry items, ground beef and rice, you can feed four people without spending too much cash.
Totally adaptable. Got random veggies waiting to be used (like chopped bell peppers, carrots or broccoli)? Toss them right in for a great fridge-clearing meal.
secrets for the best results
Go for reduced sodium soy sauce. It's got less salt but keeps all the good flavor.
Switch up the protein. Ground beef works great, but try pork, chicken, turkey, tofu or plant-based grounds too.
Throw in some veggies. Adding mushrooms, carrots, bell peppers or snow peas makes for a fuller meal.
Want extra protein? Just put a fried egg on top of your bowl.
Pick your favorite base. White or brown rice works well, but try cauliflower rice, quinoa or farro for something different.
Make it ahead if needed. These bowls are great for prepping in advance for busy weekdays.
Korean Beef Bowl: Common Questions
Do I need to stick with ground beef?
Not one bit! Feel free to swap in ground pork, chicken, turkey, tofu or even plant-based meat alternatives.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
You bet! Here's exactly how to get it ready for the whole week ahead.
What's the best way to keep leftovers?
Just pop any extras in a sealed container and they'll stay good in the fridge for 2-3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
For sure! Pack leftover portions in separate freezer bags, let them thaw overnight, then warm them up on the stove (with a splash of water if needed).
Pin it
Will this work in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! It's actually one of our favorite dishes to make in the crockpot when the weather turns cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What pairs well with this?
- Serve it with fluffy rice, fermented kimchi, or steamed veggies.
- → How hot is it?
- It's lightly spicy. Tweak the red pepper for heat preference.
- → Alternative to ground beef?
- You can swap it with chicken or turkey.
- → Ways to make it lighter?
- Cut back on sugar and toss in more greens.
- → Can I prep it ahead?
- Yup, store in the fridge for up to 4 days.