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Homemade One-Skillet Korean Ground-Beef Tacos recipe photo
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One-Skillet Korean Ground-Beef Tacos

These One-Skillet Korean Ground-Beef Tacos are quick, flavorful, and perfect for a bold weeknight meal with minimal cleanup.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef choose lean for less grease
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • 1/4 cup green onions chopped
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese cheddar or a Mexican blend works well
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 avocado sliced

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce and Beef

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. This sauce is the heart of your One-Skillet Korean Ground-Beef Tacos, delivering that signature sweet and spicy Korean flavor.

Cook the Ground Beef

  • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s no longer pink — about 5 to 6 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the tacos from becoming greasy.

Add the Sauce and Simmer

  • Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked beef. Stir well to combine, allowing the beef to soak up all the flavors. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.

Warm the Tortillas

  • While the beef simmers, warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Wrapping them in a clean kitchen towel will keep them soft and pliable.

Assemble Your Tacos

  • Spoon a generous amount of the Korean ground beef onto each tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and slices of creamy avocado. Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for an extra burst of freshness and color.

Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve your One-Skillet Korean Ground-Beef Tacos immediately while they’re warm and flavorful. These tacos are perfect for sharing and pair beautifully with a side of steamed rice or a crisp salad.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Small Bowl
  • Spatula
  • Microwave or Dry Skillet

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef: Reduces excess grease for lighter tacos.
  • Adjust spice level: Modify red pepper flakes to your heat preference.
  • Warm tortillas properly: Keep them soft and pliable for easy folding.
  • Make ahead: Prepare beef mixture in advance and reheat quickly.
  • Customize toppings: Add kimchi or pickled radishes for extra flavor.