Simple Korean-Style Wagyu Ground Beef Rice Bowls

Who doesn’t love a quick, satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor? This Wagyu Korean Ground Beef recipe over rice is a one-bowl wonder that combines the richness of wagyu beef with the bold, savory-sweet flavors of Korean cuisine. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend treat, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Tender wagyu ground beef is caramelized in a sticky soy-based sauce infused with garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. A sprinkle of brown sugar adds a subtle sweetness, while a dash of chili flakes or gochugaru delivers just the right amount of heat. Served over a bed of warm rice and topped with fresh garnishes, this dish is the epitome of comfort food with a gourmet twist.

If you’ve ever craved Korean BBQ but didn’t have the time to grill or marinate, this recipe brings those iconic flavors to your table in under 30 minutes. Plus, the use of premium wagyu beef elevates the dish, creating an indulgent meal you’ll want to make on repeat.

Why This Recipe Works

1. The Star Ingredient: Wagyu Ground Beef

Wagyu’s high marbling ensures a juicy, flavorful result, even when ground. Its buttery richness pairs beautifully with the tangy-sweet Korean sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

2. Sweet and Savory Sauce

This dish owes its magic to the sauce. Soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger come together to form a glossy, sticky glaze that clings to every morsel of beef. The addition of sesame oil adds nuttiness, while chili flakes or gochugaru provide a mild kick.

3. Quick and Easy Preparation

With minimal prep and a single skillet, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy days. From start to finish, you’re looking at just 20–25 minutes, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners.

4. Customizable to Your Taste

• Heat Level: Adjust the spice by increasing or omitting chili flakes.
• Sweetness: Swap brown sugar for honey or a touch of maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
• Protein Swap: Not in the mood for beef? Try ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version.

5. Perfect Pairing with Rice

The saucy, flavorful beef practically demands to be served over rice. The rice absorbs all the delicious juices, making each bite a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients Breakdown

Ingredients of Wagyu Ground Beef Recipe

1. Ground Wagyu Beef – 1 pound
   • The high-fat content and buttery texture of wagyu beef make it the ideal choice for this recipe. If unavailable, you can substitute with regular ground beef but note that the flavor will be less rich.
2. Soy Sauce – 1/4 cup
   • Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
3. Brown Sugar – 2 tablespoons
   • Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory notes.
4. Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
   • Essential for adding depth to the sauce.
5. Ginger – 1 teaspoon, grated
   • Fresh ginger adds warmth and a hint of spice.
6. Sesame Oil – 1 teaspoon
   • A small amount goes a long way to give a nutty, aromatic finish.
7. Red Pepper Flakes or Gochugaru – 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
   • Adds a mild heat; increase for a spicier kick.
8. Green Onions – 2, thinly sliced
   • For garnish and a fresh pop of flavor.
9. Cooked White or Brown Rice – 2 cups
   • Fluffy, warm rice serves as the perfect base for the saucy beef.
10. Sesame Seeds – 1 teaspoon
    • Optional garnish for added crunch and nuttiness.
11. Optional Toppings:
    • Thinly sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or a fried egg can take this dish to the next level.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Handling Wagyu Ground Beef

• Wagyu beef cooks quickly due to its high-fat content. Use medium heat and keep a close eye to prevent overcooking.

2. Sauce Consistency

• If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of water or beef broth to adjust. Conversely, if it’s too thin, simmer for an extra minute or two until it reaches a syrupy consistency.

3. Rice Prep

• Rinse your rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve fluffy grains. For extra flavor, cook the rice with a pinch of salt or a splash of coconut milk.

4. Garnish for Aesthetic and Flavor

• Don’t skip the garnishes! Fresh elements like green onions and cucumbers balance the richness of the beef, while sesame seeds add texture.

5. Make It a Meal

• Serve this dish alongside a Korean-inspired side like kimchi or a quick cucumber salad for a complete meal.

Variants of the Wagyu Ground Beef Recipe

1. Spicy Wagyu Korean Ground Beef

• For spice lovers, add a tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the sauce. It deepens the flavor with a sweet and spicy kick. Increase the red pepper flakes or gochugaru for extra heat.

2. Low-Carb Version

• Swap out the rice for cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli. The rich wagyu beef pairs beautifully with lighter, low-carb bases.

3. Bibimbap-Inspired Bowl

• Transform this dish into a bibimbap-style bowl by adding an assortment of toppings such as sautéed spinach, shredded carrots, bean sprouts, and a sunny-side-up egg. Serve with a drizzle of gochujang for authenticity.

4. Lettuce Wraps

• Skip the rice entirely and serve the beef in crisp lettuce cups. Butter lettuce or romaine hearts work best for a fresh and crunchy contrast.

5. Sweet and Savory Fusion

• Add diced pineapple or mango to the skillet during the last minute of cooking. The sweetness complements the savory beef and adds a tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions

1. As a Bowl Meal

• Serve over hot steamed jasmine rice or nutty brown rice, topped with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and a sunny-side-up egg. Pair it with a side of tangy kimchi or pickled radishes for a traditional Korean flair.

2. Family-Style Platter

• Arrange the cooked beef on a large platter surrounded by small bowls of toppings like shredded carrots, cucumber ribbons, and sautéed greens. This creates an interactive dining experience, perfect for family meals or gatherings.

3. Side Dish Pairings

• Pair the beef with Korean-inspired sides such as:
  • Cucumber Salad: Thinly sliced cucumbers tossed with sesame oil, soy sauce, and a pinch of sugar.
  • Kimchi Pancakes: Savory and slightly spicy pancakes made with fermented kimchi and flour.
  • Miso Soup: A warm, umami-packed soup to balance the richness of the beef.

4. Topping Ideas for Enhanced Flavor

• Add a fried or poached egg for extra richness.
• Sprinkle crushed roasted peanuts or crispy fried garlic for texture.
• Drizzle a bit of sriracha or spicy mayo for a bold kick.

5. Kid-Friendly Version

• Omit the red pepper flakes and replace them with a dash of honey for a sweeter, milder flavor that kids will enjoy. Serve with plain rice or soft dinner rolls.

Recipe Card

Wagyu Ground Beef Recipe

Recipe by SimonCuisine: KoreanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

This quick and flavorful Wagyu Korean ground beef recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners. With its sweet and savory glaze, paired over fluffy rice, it’s a comforting meal that combines premium wagyu beef with bold Korean flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) wagyu ground beef

• 2 tbsp sesame oil

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey for natural sweetness)

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

• 3 cups cooked jasmine or brown rice

Directions

• Prepare the Sauce
  In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
• Cook the Beef
  Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing until fragrant (1–2 minutes).
  Add the wagyu ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned (about 5–7 minutes).
• Add the Sauce
  Pour the prepared sauce over the beef, stirring well to coat. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
• Finish with Garnishes
  Stir in half of the sliced green onions. Reserve the rest for topping.
• Serve
  Spoon the beef over hot cooked rice. Garnish with remaining green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

• Substitute wagyu beef with lean ground beef for a lighter option.
• For a gluten-free version, replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance.

FAQs about Wagyu Ground Beef Recipe

Health Benefits of the Wagyu Ground Beef Recipe

Customizable for Health Goals:
Swap white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice for added fiber and reduced carbs.

Rich in Protein:
Wagyu beef is packed with high-quality protein that supports muscle repair and growth.

Good Fats:
Wagyu beef contains healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health when consumed in moderation.

Nutrient-Dense Garnishes:
Sesame seeds and green onions add a boost of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Cooking is an adventure, and this Wagyu Korean Ground Beef Over Rice recipe invites you to explore the delicious crossroads of simplicity and indulgence. The buttery richness of wagyu beef perfectly harmonizes with the bold and vibrant Korean-inspired flavors, creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive.

Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner for your family or looking to dazzle guests with a unique twist on ground beef, this recipe offers the perfect balance of ease and sophistication. Plus, with versatile options for spicing it up or making it lighter, it’s truly a dish for everyone.

We’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own! Leave a comment below, share your photos on social media, or tag us so we can celebrate your culinary creations. And if you’re craving more quick and flavorful dinners, be sure to check out our recipes for Chilean Tomato Stew Recipe.

Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!