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Quick Korean Beef Recipe

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This quick Korean beef recipe is a fast, flavorful, and budget-friendly weeknight dinner. Ground beef is simmered in a savory-sweet garlic ginger sauce and served over rice for a satisfying takeout-style meal ready in under 20 minutes.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Quick Meals, Stir-Fry
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean, 7% or less fat)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 3 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil (vegetable or canola)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • For serving:
  • Steamed white or brown rice
  • Steamed or stir-fried vegetables (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, chili flakes (if using), and cornstarch.
  2. Cook the beef: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for a few minutes to brown, then break apart. Continue cooking until no longer pink, about 7–10 minutes.
  3. Add the sauce: Pour the sauce over the beef. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened and beef is well coated.
  4. Serve: Spoon beef over rice and top with green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

  • Add veggies: Stir in diced onion, shredded carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
  • Low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
  • Protein swap: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
  • Spicy version: Increase chili flakes or add sriracha to the sauce.

Nutrition