If you are looking for a quick and delicious meal that packs a flavorful punch, look no further than this Korean Ground Beef Skillet. With its savory blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, and aromatic garlic, this dish is not only easy to whip up but also perfect for a weeknight dinner. Simply serve it over rice or noodles, and you have a meal that the entire family will love. Let’s dive into the essentials and get cooking!

The Upside of Korean Ground Beef Skillet

This Korean Ground Beef Skillet is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also a boon for your busy schedule. Here are some of the perks:

Quick Cooking Time: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything is cooked in a single skillet.
Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil creates a mouthwatering sauce that clings to the beef.
Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!

The Essentials

To make this delectable Korean Ground Beef Skillet, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 pounds ground beef: The star of the dish, providing richness and protein.
1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor.
1/2 cup soy sauce: Provides that umami goodness.
1/4 cup brown sugar: Balances the savory with a touch of sweetness.
4 cloves garlic, pressed: A must for that aromatic kick.
1 tablespoon minced ginger: Adds a warm, spicy note.
1 tablespoon sesame oil: Imparts a nutty flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the diced onion.
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: For those who like a little heat.
1 tablespoon corn starch: To thicken the sauce.
2 teaspoons water: Helps dissolve the corn starch.
3 green onions, thinly sliced: For garnish and a fresh crunch.

Cook’s Kit

To prepare this delightful dish, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials:

Skillet: A large, non-stick skillet works best for even cooking.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring and breaking up the beef.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Knife and Cutting Board: To dice the onion and slice the green onions.

Directions: Korean Ground Beef Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Next, stir in the pressed garlic and minced ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix until the sugar is dissolved, then pour this mixture over the beef and onion in the skillet.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In another small bowl, whisk together the corn starch and water. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with thinly sliced green onions. Serve the Korean Ground Beef Skillet over steamed rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps for a complete meal!

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

If you need to modify this recipe for dietary restrictions, consider these swaps:

Gluten-Free Soy Sauce: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce.
Brown Sugar Substitute: Coconut sugar or maple syrup can also work as a sweetener.

Problems & Prevention

While this recipe is straightforward, here are a few common issues and how to prevent them:

Beef Too Greasy: Make sure to drain excess fat after browning the beef.
Too Salty: Adjust the soy sauce quantity based on your taste preferences. You can also dilute it with a bit of water.
Sauce Not Thickening: Ensure the corn starch is fully dissolved in water before adding it to the skillet.

Shelf Life & Storage

To keep your Korean Ground Beef Skillet fresh:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: You can freeze the cooked beef in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reader Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu can be substituted for ground beef, depending on your preference.

What can I serve with this dish?

This Korean Ground Beef Skillet pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or even over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter option.

Is this dish spicy?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted by modifying the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. Omit it for a milder flavor.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color. Just sauté them with the onions for the best results.

More from the Kitchen

If you loved this Korean Ground Beef Skillet, here are more recipes you might enjoy:

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this Korean Ground Beef Skillet recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. Whether you post it on social media or pass it along in a message, sharing is caring!

This Korean Ground Beef Skillet is sure to become a staple in your household. With its savory flavor profile and quick cooking time, it’s perfect for busy evenings or cozy family gatherings. Enjoy the delightful flavors of Korea right in your kitchen, and don’t forget to experiment with different sides and toppings. Happy cooking!

Print Recipe Save it for later