Name: Korean Beef and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 tablespoons sesame oil or vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 3 cups cooked white or brown rice; Green onions, sliced (optional); Sesame seeds (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 52 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet takes almost no time to make, then you’re going to love this Korean Beef and Rice Recipe. This meal combines savory-sweet ground beef cooked in classic Korean-inspired sauces, served atop warm, fluffy rice for a wonderfully satisfying and comforting dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just looking for a quick weeknight winner, this recipe balances bold taste and simplicity in a way that feels like a little celebration every time you eat it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white plate on the left with a rectangular block of raw ground meat that has a pinkish-red color and a wavy texture. To the right, there is a white bowl filled with cooked white rice, showing separate grains with a soft texture. Below the rice, there are three small white bowls containing sauces: one amber-colored, one dark soy-colored, and a clear bowl with red chili flakes. In the center bottom, a wooden cutting board holds chopped green onions scattered beside a small knife with a wooden handle. Also visible are small bowls of crushed ginger powder and toasted sesame seeds. All items are arranged on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Korean Beef and Rice Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each bringing an essential touch to the final flavor, texture, and look. From the rich umami of soy sauce to the gentle heat of red pepper flakes, these components come together effortlessly to create a dish that’s equally tasty and approachable.

1 lb ground beef: Use lean ground beef for a perfect balance of flavor and texture without excess grease.
2 tablespoons sesame oil or vegetable oil: Sesame oil adds that nutty aroma essential in Korean cooking, while vegetable oil is a great neutral alternative.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings boldness that complements the beef beautifully.
1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari: Tamari works wonderfully for a gluten-free option and gives the dish a deep, salty backbone.
2 tablespoons brown sugar: This adds just the right sweet balance to the savory elements.
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Fresh ginger lifts the dish with a subtle zing and warmth.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a little kick for those who enjoy a gentle heat.
3 cups cooked white or brown rice: The base that soaks up all those rich flavors.
Green onions, sliced (optional): Fresh green onions brighten the final plate with a pop of color and freshness.
Sesame seeds (optional): Adds a toasty crunch and a beautiful finishing touch.

How to Make Korean Beef and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Start by heating your chosen oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook it until nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This step builds the hearty foundation of your dish with rich, caramelized notes from the meat.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger

Drain any excess fat if necessary, then stir in the minced garlic and fresh grated ginger. Cook everything for about 30 seconds until the kitchen fills with irresistible aromas—these aromatics really elevate the flavor profile here.

Step 3: Incorporate the Sauces and Seasonings

Pour in the soy sauce or tamari and sprinkle the brown sugar over the beef mixture. If you like some heat, toss in the red pepper flakes now. Stir everything well to combine, allowing the brown sugar to melt and the sauce to begin thickening as it simmers.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it to thicken just enough to coat every morsel of beef, making every bite flavorful and luscious.

Step 5: Serve Over Rice

Place generous spoonfuls of the beef mixture over bowls of warm cooked rice. This step pulls everything together, turning the distinct flavors into a comforting, unified dish.

How to Serve Korean Beef and Rice Recipe

Korean Beef and Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For that restaurant-quality finish, sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the top. These simple garnishes add vibrant color and delightful texture contrasts that make the dish even more inviting.

Side Dishes

Balance out the rich beef with fresh or steamed veggies like broccoli, cucumbers, or even kimchi if you want a traditional Korean touch. These sides provide refreshing crunch and complement the main flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Korean Beef and Rice Recipe in lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist or on top of crispy fried rice cakes for something extra special. Adding a fried egg on top also brings a silky richness that’s hard to resist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The beef mixture holds its flavor and texture well, making it easy to enjoy the next day with minimal effort.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the beef into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick meal anytime.

Reheating

Reheat the beef gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If it seems dry, splash in a little water or soy sauce to revive the sauce’s luscious texture.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner substitute that works well with the same seasonings, offering a slightly milder flavor but still delivering on texture and satisfaction.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use tamari instead of soy sauce, this Korean Beef and Rice Recipe can easily be gluten-free, making it accessible to more dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level entirely depends on your preference; the red pepper flakes are optional, so feel free to adjust them up or down to suit your taste.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

While this recipe shines with beef, you can try substituting with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu with the same sauce for a vegetarian twist, though the texture and flavor will be a bit different.

What kind of rice works best?

Both white and brown rice work wonderfully here. Brown rice gives a nuttier taste and chewier texture, while white rice offers a softer, more neutral base that soaks up every delicious drop of sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Korean Beef and Rice Recipe is such a winner for anyone who loves bold, fuss-free meals that don’t compromise on flavor. It’s quick, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable to whatever you have on hand. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become a go-to favorite for busy nights or whenever you want a delicious taste of Korean-inspired comfort food in no time at all.