Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break up the meat and cook until browned.
Add onion and garlic and cook for an additional minute.
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, crushed red pepper and ground ginger. Pour the sauce over the beef, cover and simmer on low for 10 minutes.
Whisk together water and cornstarch then mix in with beef. Let simmer for 2-3 more minutes, or until sauce thickens.
Serve over rice, if desired (not included in nutrition information).