Description
A quick, small-batch Korean ground beef recipe that uses exactly one pound of meat and pantry staples to create a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy meal ready in 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 fat ratio recommended)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp dark brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 stalks green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, dark brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it apart into small crumbles.
- Cook beef until no longer pink and browned, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary, leaving about a tablespoon.
- Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and white parts of green onions to the beef. Stir constantly for 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and aromatics. Stir to combine.
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef in a glossy glaze.
- Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with green onion tops.
- Serve immediately over steamed rice or preferred base.
Notes
Use 80/20 ground beef for best texture; lean beef can become dry. Ensure beef is browned properly to avoid steaming. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon. Reheats well with a splash of water. Can be made with chicken, turkey, or tofu for variations.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl with rice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 20
- Sodium: 900
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 35
Keywords: Korean ground beef, small batch recipe, quick dinner, 20 minute meals, ground beef bowls, easy weeknight dinner, low waste cooking