Korean Beef Bowl Recipe (Easy & Flavorful in 20 Minutes!)
Craving a quick, delicious, and savory meal? This Korean Beef Bowl (also known as Bulgogi Rice Bowl) is packed with sweet, spicy, and umami flavors—ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Ready in 20 minutes – Faster than takeout!
✔ Packed with bold Korean flavors – Sweet, spicy, garlicky, and savory.
✔ Easy to customize – Add veggies, spice level, or protein swaps.
✔ Meal-prep friendly – Stays fresh for days.
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
For the Korean Beef
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1 lb (450g) ground beef (or thinly sliced ribeye for authentic bulgogi)
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tbsp ginger, grated
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1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
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1 tbsp sesame oil
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1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste, adjust for spice)
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1 tbsp rice vinegar
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1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
For Serving
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Steamed white rice (or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
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Sliced green onions
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Toasted sesame seeds
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Fried egg (optional, for extra protein)
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Kimchi (for tangy crunch)
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Sliced cucumbers or carrots
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Beef
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Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the ground beef and cook until browned (5-6 mins), breaking it into small pieces.
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Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Make the Sauce
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In a small bowl, mix:
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Soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, gochujang, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
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Pour the sauce over the beef and stir well.
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Simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
3. Assemble the Bowls
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Divide steamed rice into bowls.
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Top with the Korean beef, then garnish with:
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Green onions, sesame seeds, kimchi, and a fried egg (if using).
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Tips for the Best Korean Beef Bowl
🔥 Spice Control: Adjust gochujang for mild or extra heat.
🍚 Rice Alternatives: Use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
🥩 Protein Swap: Try ground turkey, chicken, or tofu for a lighter version.
🥬 Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Make-Ahead & Storage
✅ Fridge: Store beef & rice separately for up to 3 days.
✅ Freezer: Beef keeps for 1 month (thaw & reheat).
✅ Reheat: Microwave or skillet with a splash of water.
Why This Beats Takeout
This Korean Beef Bowl is cheaper, healthier, and tastier than restaurant versions—plus, you control the ingredients! The gochujang adds a deep, spicy-sweet kick, while the sesame oil gives it an authentic Korean flavor.
FAQ
❓ Can I use beef strips instead of ground beef?
✅ Yes! Thinly slice ribeye or sirloin for classic bulgogi.
❓ Is gochujang necessary?
✅ It adds authentic spice, but substitute sriracha + soy sauce in a pinch.
❓ Can I make it gluten-free?
✅ Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check gochujang labels.
Final Thoughts
This Korean Beef Bowl is a flavor explosion—perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests. Plus, it’s kid-friendly (adjust spice) and versatile for any diet!
Try it tonight and tag your creation! 📸 #KoreanBeefBowl
Tags: #KoreanBeefBowl #BulgogiRecipe #EasyKoreanFood #20MinuteMeals #MealPrepIdeas #GochujangRecipes