Authentic Korean Ground Beef Recipes With Vegetables Made Easy

Updated On: October 8, 2025

If you love the bold, savory flavors of Korean cuisine but want a quick, hearty meal packed with vegetables and protein, you’ve come to the right place! Authentic Korean ground beef recipes with vegetables bring together the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami notes that Korean food is famous for.

This dish is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly versatile, making it a family favorite or an impressive weeknight dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned Korean food enthusiast or just starting your culinary journey, these recipes will become staples in your kitchen.

Ground beef offers a rich texture that absorbs the vibrant Korean sauces beautifully. Paired with fresh vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers, you get a colorful, nutritious, and satisfying dish.

Best of all, these recipes are easy to customize to your taste, whether you prefer more spice or a milder, sweeter flavor. Get ready to explore the delicious world of Korean ground beef dishes that are both authentic and home-friendly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Korean ground beef recipes with vegetables are a fantastic way to enjoy the rich flavors of Korea without spending hours in the kitchen. These dishes are:

  • Quick and easy: Ready in about 20-30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Nutritious: Loaded with fresh vegetables, they offer a balanced meal with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
  • Flavor-packed: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and a hint of sweetness creates a mouthwatering experience.
  • Versatile: You can serve it over rice, noodles, or even wrap it in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
  • Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages and customizable for spice preferences.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef – preferably lean for a healthier option
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned or grated
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use low sodium if preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon gochujang (Korean chili paste) – optional for spice
  • 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large non-stick skillet or frying pan
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Serving bowls or plates

Instructions

  1. Prepare your vegetables. Dice the zucchini, julienne the carrot, slice the bell pepper, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Set aside.
  2. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sesame oil and swirl to coat the pan.
  3. Add the ground beef. Break it apart with your wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add the onions and garlic. Sauté with the beef for 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.
  5. Mix in the soy sauce, brown sugar, and grated ginger. Stir well to combine and coat the beef evenly.
  6. Add the vegetables. Toss in the zucchini, carrot, and bell pepper. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  7. If you like it spicy, add the gochujang. Stir it in well and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  8. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  9. Remove from heat and garnish. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For a healthier alternative, swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also use plant-based ground “meat” for a vegan twist!

Here are some ways to customize this recipe:

  • Vegetable swaps: Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or snap peas for more texture and nutrition.
  • Spice level: Adjust the amount of gochujang or omit it for a milder dish. Alternatively, add red pepper flakes for heat.
  • Sweetener options: Use honey, agave syrup, or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.
  • Serving styles: Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or even in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1/4 recipe)
Calories 320 kcal
Protein 26 g
Fat 18 g
Carbohydrates 12 g
Fiber 3 g
Sugar 6 g
Sodium 580 mg

Serving Suggestions

This Korean ground beef with vegetables is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

  • Over steamed white or brown rice: A classic pairing that balances the bold flavors.
  • With cauliflower rice: For a low-carb, veggie-packed option.
  • Wrapped in lettuce leaves: Create fresh, crunchy wraps for a fun and healthy meal.
  • Alongside kimchi and pickled vegetables: Add authentic Korean side dishes for a full experience.
  • Mixed into cooked noodles: Try soba or udon noodles for a comforting bowl.

For more flavorful and healthy meal ideas, you might also enjoy our Asian Vegetarian Rice Bowl Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals or try the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to add a spicy kick to your Korean dishes.

Conclusion

Authentic Korean ground beef recipes with vegetables are a perfect blend of convenience, nutrition, and incredible flavor. They bring together simple ingredients to create a dish that is both satisfying and adaptable for any dietary preference.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers wholesome goodness with a Korean twist. The combination of savory ground beef, crisp vegetables, and that unmistakable Korean seasoning will keep you coming back for more.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the spice levels and vegetable choices to make it your own.

Ready to dive deeper into the world of delicious meals? Check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion for more inspiration and wholesome dishes that complement your Korean culinary adventures!

📖 Recipe Card: Authentic Korean Ground Beef with Vegetables

Description: A flavorful and quick Korean-inspired ground beef stir-fry with fresh vegetables. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner packed with savory and sweet notes.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT30M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup chopped zucchini
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and onion; sauté until fragrant and translucent.
  3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
  4. Stir in carrots, zucchini, and mushrooms; cook until vegetables are tender.
  5. Mix in soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes.
  6. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 28 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 12 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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