Spicy Sesame Ground Beef Bowls Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, the Spicy Sesame Ground Beef Bowls might just be your new go-to. This recipe combines savory spices and tender beef with a hint of sweetness, resulting in a bowl that’s satisfying on all fronts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Bold Flavors: The combination of sesame, ginger, and spicy pepper flakes creates an unforgettable taste.
  • Versatile: Serve it over rice, pasta, or even lettuce for a low-carb option.
  • Minimal Cleanup: With everything made in one skillet, you’ll spend less time washing up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Spicy Sesame Ground Beef Bowls lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, bringing its own unique flair to this harmonious dish.

  • Coconut Sugar: Adds a hint of caramel sweetness that balances the spice.
  • Coconut Aminos: A soy sauce alternative that brings depth and umami.
  • Toasted Sesame Oil: Infuses a rich nuttiness that’s simply irresistible.
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Delivers just the right amount of kick.
  • Ground Ginger: Offers a light spicy warmth that complements the beef.
  • Fresh Garlic: Ensures a fragrant base for the dish.
  • Ground Beef: The star protein, providing a hearty and satisfying bite.
  • Green Onions: For freshness and a pop of color.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Feel free to adjust the Spicy Sesame Ground Beef Bowls to suit your taste. The base recipe is wonderfully flexible and can be easily adapted.

  • Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for crumbled tofu or tempeh.
  • Extra Spicy: Add an extra teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your coconut aminos is certified gluten-free.

How to Make Spicy Sesame Ground Beef Bowls

Step 1: Preparing the Aromatics

Begin by mincing three cloves of fresh garlic and thinly slicing two green onions. These aromatics are the foundation of flavor for this dish, and prepping them early ensures a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Mixing the Sauce

Combine coconut sugar, coconut aminos, sesame oil, crushed red pepper flakes, and ground ginger in a small bowl. Whisk it all together into a harmonious blend. This sauce will enrich the beef with its rich, spicy-sweet flavor.

Step 3: Cooking the Beef

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for about one minute until fragrant, then add the ground beef. Break up the beef using a spatula, cooking it until fully browned.

Step 4: Bringing It All Together

Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked beef, stirring to combine. Incorporate most of the green onions, reserving a few for garnishing. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Sesame Ground Beef Bowls

  • Flavor Boost: Marinate the beef in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking for an extra infusion of flavor.
  • Ideal Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to cater to your spice tolerance.
  • Make Ahead Magic: Prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week, ready for a quick meal anytime.
  • Perfecting Garnish: Use both green and white parts of the onions for a visually appealing garnish.

How to Serve Spicy Sesame Ground Beef Bowls

Spicy Sesame Ground Beef Bowls Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Elevate your Spicy Sesame Ground Beef Bowls with a generous sprinkle of chopped green onions or sesame seeds. A touch of coriander can also add a fresh herbaceous note.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple steamed jasmine rice or a fresh cucumber salad. For a heartier meal, consider adding lightly sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stylish take, serve the beef mixture in individually crafted lettuce cups. Or, design a build-your-own bowl station, allowing family or guests to personalize their own dish with a variety of toppings and bases.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Spicy Sesame Ground Beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.

Freezing

To freeze, let the beef cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your Spicy Sesame Ground Beef gently over a low flame on the stove, or in the microwave in short bursts to prevent drying out, until warmed through.

FAQs

  1. Can I use turkey instead of beef?

    Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic substitute that offers a lighter profile while still soaking up the delicious marinade.

  2. How do I make it less spicy?

    Reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or omit them entirely, if you prefer a milder dish.

  3. What can I use instead of coconut aminos?

    Soy sauce is a perfect alternative, though it may result in a slightly saltier dish, so adjust the amount to taste.

  4. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

    Yes, it’s ideal for meal prep. Portion out into containers with your preferred sides for easy grab-and-go weekday meals.

Final Thoughts

The Spicy Sesame Ground Beef Bowls offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you are catering to a family dinner or just for yourself, give this recipe a try, and discover what your taste buds have been missing.

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Spicy Sesame Ground Beef Bowls Recipe

Spicy Sesame Ground Beef Bowls Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 136 reviews
  • Author: Nora
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Description

Spicy Sesame Ground Beef Bowls are a quick and flavorful meal featuring tender ground beef in a savory, spicy sesame sauce, topped with fresh green onions. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, served over rice or greens, this dish is rich in bold flavors and simple to prepare.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Sauce

  • 1/4 cup coconut sugar
  • 1/2 cup coconut aminos
  • 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger

For the Beef

  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp butter
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 green onions, sliced (reserve some for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce: In a glass measuring cup or bowl, combine coconut sugar, coconut aminos, toasted sesame oil, crushed red pepper flakes, and ground ginger. Use a fork or whisk to mix thoroughly and set aside.
  2. Heat the skillet: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted and hot.
  3. Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and softened.
  4. Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Add the sauce: Pour the prepared sesame mixture into the skillet. Stir well to coat the beef.
  6. Add green onions: Stir in sliced green onions, reserving some for garnishing. Let the mixture simmer for 2-5 minutes to meld flavors.
  7. Serve: Serve warm over rice, pasta, potatoes, or lettuce as desired. Garnish with reserved green onions.

Notes

  • For extra heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes according to taste.
  • This dish pairs well with steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
  • Use lean ground beef for a healthier version.
  • You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 250g)
  • Calories: 394 kcal
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 791 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
  • Fiber: 0.4 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 83 mg

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