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Easy Spicy Garlic Ground Beef Rice Bowl Recipe Perfect for Quick Meals

spicy garlic ground beef rice bowl - featured image

A quick and flavorful spicy garlic ground beef rice bowl that balances heat and savory richness, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups (600 g) cooked white or jasmine rice (day-old preferred)
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 to 2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook 1½ cups (300 g) dry jasmine or white rice according to package instructions to yield about 3 cups cooked. Set aside and keep warm. Break up any clumps if using leftover rice.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  3. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  4. Add 1 lb (450 g) ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned and no pink remains. Season lightly with salt and pepper during cooking.
  5. In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 to 2 teaspoons red chili flakes (to taste), and 1 teaspoon sesame oil until sugar dissolves.
  6. Pour the sauce over the cooked beef and garlic. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld flavors and slightly thicken the sauce.
  7. Spoon warm rice into bowls, top with the spicy garlic ground beef mixture, and sprinkle chopped green onions over the top.
  8. Optional: Add a drizzle of sriracha or a fried egg for extra creaminess and flavor.

Notes

Use day-old rice to prevent mushiness. Cook garlic gently to avoid bitterness. Adjust chili flakes to control heat. Sauce thickens after a few minutes—do not rush. Can prep beef mixture ahead and reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: spicy garlic ground beef, rice bowl, quick meals, weeknight dinner, easy recipe, ground beef recipe, garlic beef bowl