Ground beef is a versatile and relatively cost-effective ingredient that can be used in so many different dishes. It’s a favorite in kitchens around the world, including Japan. In this collection, I’m sharing 8 delicious Japanese recipes that transform everyday ground beef into exciting, family-friendly meals.
1. Milano Doria Copycat Recipe (Japanese Meat Gratin)
Featured Comment:
“This recipe is outstanding! I can’t recommend it enough. I make it every time my kids have friends over and they devour it all. Better than the real thing 🙂 Thank you so much!”
– Stuart
Discover Milano Doria, a beloved Japanese-Western fusion dish that transforms humble ground beef into something extraordinary. This unique creation features turmeric-spiced rice topped with a rich béchamel sauce, zesty meat sauce, and a golden cheese crust.
Born in the popular Japanese restaurant chain Saizeriya, this dish has nothing to do with Milan – but everything to do with comfort food perfection.
2. Hambagu (Japanese Hamburger Steak)
Featured Comment:
“My family really liked this and it was fun to make. We’ve been watching the Spy Family Anime and wanted to try hambagu. For Americans, I would say that this dish is not like Salisbury Steak, it’s more like a meatball or anindividual meatloaf, with a more refined sauce on top. Try it!”
– Stacey (from Pinterest)
Hambagu takes ground beef in a completely different direction from what you’re used to seeing in the West. Imagine a perfectly seasoned meat patty that’s more like a steak than a burger, topped with a velvety sauce.
It’s perfect for those who appreciate how global cuisines can transform familiar ingredients into something extraordinary.
3. Soba Noodle Salad with Summer Vegetables
Featured Comment:
“I don’t do much with soba noodles but it’s very tasty, easy to cook and good summer cuisine. Yummy.”
– Kathleen
I’ve got a new favorite summer meal for you: a chilled soba noodle salad with savory miso ground beef on top.
This clever combo takes the heartiness of ground beef and turns it into a refreshing topping that goes perfectly with cold buckwheat noodles.
4. Korokke (Japanese Meat and Potato Croquette)
Featured Comment:
“I loved the seasoned hamburger, it was a big hit at New Years.”
– Windsofchange (from Pineterest)
Korokke shows that sometimes the best ground beef recipes come in crispy, golden packages. These Japanese-style croquettes mix seasoned meat with creamy potatoes, all wrapped up in light, crispy panko breadcrumbs that crumble in your mouth with each bite.
A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds the perfect finishing touch to these butcher shop-inspired treats.
5. Spicy Beef Gyoza with Hot Dipping Sauce
Transform ground beef into crispy parcels of joy with these unconventional Spicy Beef Gyoza. Each dumpling brings together the flavor of beef with warming spices, giving a new spin on traditional Japanese dumplings.
A fiery dipping sauce takes these dumplings to the next level of heat and flavor. They’re ideal for cooks who love putting their own spin on classic recipes.
6. Okinawa Taco Rice
Experience Okinawa’s famous Taco Rice, where Tex-Mex meets Japanese cuisine in perfect harmony. This colorful creation layers seasoned ground beef and fresh salad over sticky Japanese rice, crowned with a soft-boiled egg and crispy tortilla chips.
Each element brings its own texture and flavor, creating a surprisingly cohesive meal. It’s ideal for anyone who believes fusion food should be fun, filling and delicious.
7. Menchi Katsu (Japanese Ground Meat Cutlet)
Meet the ultimate deep-fried indulgence: Menchi Katsu. This Japanese favorite wraps perfectly seasoned ground beef and pork in crispy panko breadcrumbs.
Served with shredded cabbage and a special sauce, this isn’t your typical fried beef patty!
8. Homemade Tsukimi Burger (Moon Gazing Burger)
Try Japan’s famous Tsukimi Burger, where a moon-shaped egg turns a simple burger into something special.
This homemade version of McDonald’s Japan’s seasonal sensation brings together a juicy beef patty with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a perfectly cooked egg, all dressed in a special sauce.
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