When it comes to comfort food, few cuisines can compete with the hearty and flavorful dishes of Japan. And when it comes to those dishes, one key ingredient stands out: ground beef. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick and easy bowl or a hearty stew, there’s no shortage of delicious Japanese ground beef recipes to try. From classic stir-fries to innovative twists on traditional dishes, this article will take you on a culinary journey through Japan’s rich culinary heritage. In this collection of 20 flavorful Japanese ground beef recipes, you’ll find inspiration for every occasion: from weeknight meals to special celebrations and everything in between.
Japanese Beef Bowl (Gyudon)
Savor the rich flavors of Japan with this classic Gyudon recipe, featuring tender beef and savory sauce served over a bed of steaming hot rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 cups cooked Japanese rice
– Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pan or wok, combine soy sauce, sake, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
4. To assemble the bowls, place cooked rice in a bowl, then add beef and sauce mixture on top. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Potato Stew (Nikujaga)
A classic Japanese comfort food, Nikujaga is a hearty beef and potato stew that’s easy to make and satisfying to eat. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup dashi broth (or substitute with chicken or beef stock)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, water, dashi broth, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef and potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Japanese Hamburger Steak (Hambāgu)
A classic Japanese comfort food, Hambāgu is a juicy and flavorful beef patty served with a variety of sides. This simple recipe yields a deliciously textured and savory dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, and a fried egg.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Onion Stir-Fry (Negima)
A classic Japanese stir-fry dish, Negima is a flavorful and savory combination of beef and onions cooked to perfection. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 250g beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sake (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add the onions and garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return the beef to the wok, add soy sauce and sake (if using). Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sukiyaki with Ground Beef
Experience the rich flavors of Japan with this simple and delicious Sukiyaki recipe, featuring ground beef as the star ingredient. This popular dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups dashi broth (or beef broth)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions, for garnish
– Noodles or rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ground beef, dashi broth, soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the beef is cooked through.
3. Serve hot with noodles or rice, garnished with green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Beef Curry with Ground Beef
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Japanese curry with the comfort of ground beef, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delicious and aromatic dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Japanese curry roux (available at Asian markets or online)
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add diced onions and minced garlic; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Mix in curry roux, water, soy sauce, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Tofu Miso Soup
This comforting soup combines the richness of beef with the savory flavors of miso paste, all wrapped up in a delicious broth. Perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as chuck or short ribs), sliced into thin strips
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the tofu, beef broth, and miso paste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef Okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki is a popular Japanese savory pancake from the Hiroshima region. This Ground Beef Okonomiyaki recipe adds a hearty twist to the classic dish by incorporating ground beef into the mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ground beef
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup grated cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, water, and egg. Mix until smooth batter forms.
2. Add ground beef, cabbage, green onions (if using), soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour the batter mixture into the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as okonomiyaki sauce, bonito flakes, and pickled ginger.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers (Japanese-style)
Elevate your stuffed pepper game with this unique Japanese-inspired twist, featuring tender beef and savory rice filling. This recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful meal that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably Koshihikari)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake or dry white wine
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– Sesame seeds and chopped cilantro, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add soy sauce, sake or wine, and grated ginger; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked rice and chopped scallions.
5. Stuff each pepper with the beef-rice mixture, filling to the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef Gyoza (Dumplings)
Get ready to experience the authentic flavors of Japan with this classic Beef Gyoza recipe! These pan-seared dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, green onions, and soy sauce, wrapped in a delicate wonton wrapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in a small amount of water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the gyoza and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Japanese-style Beef Tacos with Sesame Dressing
Experience the fusion of Japanese flavors with traditional Mexican tacos! This unique recipe combines tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy sesame dressing for a truly unforgettable meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green onions)
– 8-10 taco shells
– Sesame dressing ingredients: 1/2 cup tahini, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp honey, 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, sugar, and sesame oil. Add beef strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill or pan-fry the beef until cooked through. Set aside.
3. Heat sesame oil in a pan and sauté mixed vegetables until tender.
4. Assemble tacos by placing beef and vegetables into shells.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame dressing ingredients. Drizzle over tacos.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Soboro Don (Scrambled Ground Beef Bowl)
This Japanese-inspired comfort food is a simple and satisfying meal that combines tender ground beef with fluffy rice and savory seasonings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooked Japanese rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pan over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the water, soy sauce, sake, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has mostly evaporated and the beef is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the scrambled ground beef over cooked Japanese rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Ground Beef Stir-Fry
A classic Asian-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This Teriyaki Ground Beef Stir-Fry is a staple for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (bell and Anaheim)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers; stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Pour in teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil; stir to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Shirataki Noodle Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stir-fries, this recipe combines tender beef with low-carb Shirataki noodles and a blend of savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 8 oz Shirataki noodles
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook Shirataki noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
6. Add cooked noodles and beef back into the skillet; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, combining all ingredients.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese-style Meatloaf with Miso Glaze
This unique twist on a classic comfort food combines the rich flavors of Japan with the heartiness of meatloaf. The sweet and savory miso glaze adds a depth of umami that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated daikon radish
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 cup miso paste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, daikon radish, garlic, soy sauce, sake, sugar, and salt. Mix until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a log.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the miso glaze by whisking together miso paste, soy sauce, and sugar in a small bowl.
6. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush with the miso glaze.
7. Return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Beef and Egg Rice Bowl (Tamago Toji)
A simple yet satisfying Japanese-inspired dish that combines flavorful beef, creamy eggs, and fluffy rice in one savory bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/2 pound beef striploin or ribeye, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake (if using), and sesame oil. Add the beef strips and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook the beef for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Cook in a non-stick pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are just set.
5. Assemble the rice bowls by placing cooked rice on the bottom, followed by sliced beef, and finishing with a fried egg.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Ground Beef Udon
This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the comforting warmth of udon noodles and a kick of spice. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 2 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onions are translucent.
4. Stir in soy sauce, Gochujang, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked udon noodles and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until noodles are well coated with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Mushroom Hot Pot
This hearty hot pot recipe combines tender ground beef, savory mushrooms, and aromatic spices to create a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let the hot pot cook for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Daikon Simmer (Daikon Nikomi)
This classic Japanese simmer dish is a hearty and comforting meal that pairs tender beef with sweet and savory daikon. This simple recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium daikons, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (Japanese rice wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 4 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine sliced beef and daikon.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, and grated ginger.
3. Pour the marinade over the beef and daikon mixture.
4. Add beef broth to cover the ingredients.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Japanese-style Ground Beef Pasta with Shiso
This recipe combines the richness of ground beef with the freshness of shiso leaves and a hint of Japanese flavors, all wrapped up in a delightful pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup shiso leaves (or substitute with cilantro)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
– 1/4 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or soba noodles)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in soy sauce and sake (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add shiso leaves to the skillet and stir-fry until wilted.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the ground beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 flavorful Japanese ground beef recipes! From classic dishes like Gyudon and Nikujaga, to creative twists like Japanese-style Beef Tacos and Spicy Ground Beef Udon, there’s something for every occasion. Discover how ground beef can be transformed into delicious stir-fries, curries, soups, and more with these authentic Japanese recipes. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for inspiration, this collection is sure to delight!
