Sweet & Savory Korean Ground Beef – So Easy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet & Savory Korean Ground Beef is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together the rich umami of soy sauce, the sweetness of brown sugar, and the warmth of garlic and ginger. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers bold Korean-inspired flavors in under 30 minutes. It’s incredibly versatile—serve it over rice, lettuce wraps, or noodles for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefsoy saucebrown sugarsesame oilgarlicgingerred pepper flakesgreen onionscooked rice (for serving)toasted sesame seeds (optional for garnish)

directions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.

Remove from heat and stir in chopped green onions.

Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice and garnish with toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Add shredded carrots or diced bell peppers for extra vegetables.

Serve in lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.

Top with a fried egg for a Korean-inspired rice bowl.

Use gochujang for added depth and spice.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?

Yes, low-sodium soy sauce is a great option to control salt levels.

Is this dish very spicy?

The spice level is mild, but you can adjust the red pepper flakes to taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

What should I serve it with?

Rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps are all excellent choices.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes, just reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, it scales up well for batch cooking or entertaining.

Do I need to marinate the beef?

No, everything cooks quickly together in one pan.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, try adding bell peppers, peas, or broccoli.

What kind of rice works best?

White rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice all pair well.

Conclusion

Sweet & Savory Korean Ground Beef is an irresistible combination of bold flavors and simple ingredients. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the ideal go-to recipe for hectic days without sacrificing taste. Whether served over rice, tucked into wraps, or topped with an egg, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy cravings and become a staple in your dinner rotation.

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