Quick & Easy Skillet Korean Beef

Whip up a quick and flavorful Skillet Korean Beef in under 30 minutes! This easy recipe features tender ground beef (or steak) simmered in a savory-sweet Asian-inspired sauce with garlic, ginger, and a hint of optional spice. Perfect for a fast weeknight meal, serve this delicious Korean beef over rice or noodles for a satisfying and tasty dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or thinly sliced steak, like sirloin or ribeye)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 Tbsp brown sugar
• 1 Tbsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp gochujang (Korean chili paste), optional, for a touch of heat
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• Sliced green onions, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: If using ground beef, cook it in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned. Drain any excess grease. If using sliced steak, add a little oil to the skillet over medium-high heat and cook the steak in batches until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and gochujang (if using). In another small bowl, whisk together the water and cornstarch until smooth.
4. Combine and Simmer: Pour the soy sauce mixture into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add Beef Back: Return the cooked ground beef (or sliced steak) to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds (if using). Serve hot over rice or noodles.