Easy Korean Beef (Better Than Takeout in 20 Minutes!)
If you’re looking for a fast, flavor-packed dinner that tastes like it simmered for hours—but only takes about 20 minutes—this Easy Korean Beef is about to become your new go-to. Sweet, savory, slightly spicy, and perfectly balanced, this ground beef recipe is the kind of weeknight hero we all need in our back pocket.
As a busy home cook, I’m always searching for recipes that hit three major marks: simple ingredients, bold flavor, and minimal cleanup. This one checks every single box. Serve it over fluffy white rice, top it with fresh green onions, and dinner is done.
Let’s get into why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.
Why I Love This Recipe
First, it’s incredibly approachable. You don’t need specialty ingredients or complicated techniques. Everything comes together with pantry staples like soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
Second, it’s versatile. You can keep it classic over rice or turn it into lettuce wraps, rice bowls, or even stuff it into tacos for a Korean-inspired twist.
And finally, it’s fast. Similar to quick comfort favorites like This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole Is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit or This Instant Pot Lasagna Is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast, this recipe proves you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create something satisfying.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- ¾ cup low sodium soy sauce
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- 3 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ½–1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
Ground Beef:
Use lean ground beef if you prefer less grease. You can also substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter option.
Brown Sugar:
Dark brown sugar gives deeper molasses flavor. Light brown sugar works too, but the flavor will be slightly milder.
Soy Sauce:
Low sodium is recommended to keep the dish balanced. If using regular soy sauce, reduce slightly and taste before adding more.
Cornstarch:
If you prefer a thicker, glossy sauce that clings to the meat, whisk in the cornstarch. It’s optional but highly recommended.
Spice Level:
Start with ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes and adjust from there. You can always add heat—but you can’t take it away!
How to Make Easy Korean Beef
1. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned and slightly crispy around the edges. This usually takes about 8–10 minutes.
Drain the excess grease.
2. Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- Soy sauce
- Dark brown sugar
- Sesame oil
- Rice vinegar
- Red pepper flakes
- Minced garlic
- Minced ginger
If using cornstarch, whisk it into the mixture until fully dissolved.
3. Combine and Simmer
Pour the sauce into the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir well to coat evenly.
Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and soak into the meat.
4. Serve and Garnish
Serve over warm white rice and top with sliced green onions. Enjoy immediately!
Tips for Success
- Let the beef crisp slightly. Don’t rush this step. A bit of caramelization adds amazing flavor.
- Whisk the sauce thoroughly. Make sure the sugar dissolves and the cornstarch (if using) is smooth.
- Simmer, don’t boil aggressively. A gentle simmer helps the sauce thicken properly.
- Prep rice ahead of time. For ultimate efficiency, start your rice before browning the beef.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This dish shines on its own, but here are a few fun ways to round out the meal:
- Pair with a refreshing drink like This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days.
- Serve alongside something bold and comforting like This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo Is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort.
- Hosting a crowd? Add this to a DIY dinner lineup with This Walking Taco Bar Is My Favorite No-Fuss Way to Feed a Crowd.
- Love classic comfort meals? Check out Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce for another family-friendly favorite.
You can also serve this Korean beef with steamed broccoli, sautéed snap peas, or quick-pickled cucumbers for added freshness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
Based on 6 servings (without rice):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: Varies depending on soy sauce used
Note: Adding rice will increase carbohydrate and calorie totals.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze cooled beef mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating:
Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
This recipe reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep lunches.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If quick and satisfying dinners are your thing, don’t miss:
- This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole Is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit
- This Instant Pot Lasagna Is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast
- Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce
These recipes keep dinner simple without sacrificing flavor—just like this Easy Korean Beef.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Korean Beef is proof that incredible flavor doesn’t require complicated steps. It’s bold, comforting, slightly sweet, and perfectly savory—all in under 30 minutes.
If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how you served it! Did you keep it classic over rice, or did you get creative? Drop a comment and let me know. And don’t forget to follow along for more easy, flavor-packed recipes that make everyday cooking exciting.
– Jason Griffith
ChefMeniac.com 🍽️
