This Healthy Korean Beef Bowl with Yum Yum Sauce is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner made with water-based cooking instead of oil. Ground beef and vegetables simmer in broth for a lighter, gut-friendly twist, then get topped with a creamy, protein-rich Greek yogurt Yum Yum Sauce. Gluten-free, balanced, and ready in 30 minutes.
Right away, you know this recipe will be delicious — it’s called Yum Yum Sauce for a reason. This meal checks all the boxes: quick, flavorful, and family-friendly. I tried it for the first time the other night, and it’s safe to say it will be a weeknight staple in my house. It comes together in about 30 minutes, offers a balance of protein and veggies, and still feels like comfort food.
What makes it Healthified is the cooking method. Instead of using oil, the ground beef and vegetables simmer in broth for a lighter, water-based approach that supports digestion and keeps the dish from feeling light yet satisfying. The result is juicy, flavorful beef and tender vegetables that taste indulgent without being greasy.
And let’s talk about that Yum Yum Sauce. Traditionally, this sauce is made with mayonnaise and sugar, but this version swaps in Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess while keeping that tangy, slightly spicy flavor that ties everything together. It’s the perfect drizzle to balance the savory beef and fluffy rice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Water-based cooking: No oil needed, yet the beef stays tender and juicy.
Balanced and satisfying: Protein, carbs, and veggies all in one bowl.
Quick and simple: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
Versatile: Works with ground chicken or turkey if you prefer a leaner option.
Flavor-packed: The creamy, tangy Yum Yum Sauce makes every bite irresistible.
Healthified Notes
- If using Greek yogurt, the sauce will be thicker and tangier; mayo gives a creamier, classic version.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. The sauce also keeps well in a sealed jar for up to a week.
- For a soy-free option, stick with coconut aminos instead of tamari.
Healthy Korean Beef Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce {Gluten-Free, Low Sugar}
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch Oven
Ingredients
For the bowls
- 1 cup vegetable chicken, or beef broth (slightly divided for cooking)
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 pound ground beef or sub chicken or turkey
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- Florets from 1 small head of broccoli or 1 12-ounce bag of broccoli florets
- Cooked white rice or cauliflower rice for serving
- Optional garnishes: sliced green onion sesame seeds, red pepper flakes
For the Yum Yum sauce
- ½ cup full-fat greek yogurt or mayonnaise or sub coconut yogurt
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce like Franks RedHot
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons coconut aminos or tamari
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon rice vinegar
Instructions
- Cook the beef. In a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat, add enough broth to cover the bottom (about ½ cup). Once simmering, add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks. Continue stirring until the meat is browned and cooked through, 7–9 minutes, adding more broth as needed to prevent sticking.
- Add the vegetables. Stir in the diced bell pepper and broccoli florets. Season lightly with sea salt. Cover the skillet and steam the vegetables with the beef for 5–7 minutes, or until the broccoli turns bright green and tender. Add a splash more broth if the mixture starts to dry out.
- Make the Healthified Yum Yum Sauce. While the beef and veggies cook, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), hot sauce, ketchup, coconut aminos, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. You can also whip ingredients together in a small blender. Adjust to taste, adding more hot sauce for heat or a splash of coconut aminos for extra umami.
- Assemble the bowls. Spoon cooked white rice or cauliflower rice into bowls. Top with the beef and vegetable mixture, then drizzle with the Healthified Yum Yum Sauce. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
