If you love the rich, savory flavors of Korean barbecue but want a quicker and easier weeknight meal, this Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe is a total game-changer. It’s packed with that iconic sweet and salty punch that bulgogi is famous for, but made with ground beef for convenience without sacrificing any of the deep, authentic flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, this recipe brings the perfect balance of tender meat, aromatic garlic and ginger, and just the right touch of sweetness to brighten your plate. Get ready for a dish that’s both satisfying and vibrant, capturing the heart of Korean cuisine in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, creating a balance of flavors and textures that make this Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe truly shine. Each one plays a meaningful role, from tenderizing the meat to adding the perfect savory-sweet harmony.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: Choosing lean beef keeps the dish hearty but not greasy, allowing the marinade flavors to shine through.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce: The backbone of the marinade, soy sauce adds deep umami flavor and saltiness without overpowering.
- 2 tbsp brown sugar: Gives a subtle sweetness and helps caramelize the beef while cooking for that authentic bulgogi finish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a punch of aroma that cuts through the richness of the beef perfectly.
- 2 tsp sesame oil: A tiny drizzle brings a nutty warmth that truly makes this recipe sing Korean barbecue vibes.
- 3 green onions, chopped: Added near the end, they offer a fresh pop of color and light, crisp flavor.
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated: A little zingy spice from ginger brightens up the overall profile beautifully.
- 1 small pear (optional), grated: This traditional ingredient helps tenderize the meat naturally while lending a delicate fruit sweetness.
How to Make Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil in a bowl until smooth and well combined. This mixture is the magic that infuses the ground beef with incredible flavor, so take a moment to get it just right. The balance between salty, sweet, and aromatic here is key.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the marinade and mix thoroughly to coat every bit of meat evenly. Allow the beef to marinate for at least 30 minutes to soak in all those lovely flavors. If you’re short on time, even 15 minutes will give a noticeable boost in taste, but the longer, the better!
Step 3: Cook the Bulgogi
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated beef mixture. Sauté, breaking apart any clumps, for around 8 to 10 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through. As it cooks, the sugars caramelize, creating those irresistible little crispy bits that give bulgogi its signature texture and flavor.
Step 4: Finish with Green Onions
When the beef is nearly done, stir in the chopped green onions. They add a fresh crunch and a burst of color, lifting the entire dish. Serve this piping hot over fluffy rice or tucked inside crisp lettuce leaves to enjoy the full range of textures and tastes.
How to Serve Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe truly pop, try sprinkling toasted sesame seeds or a few fresh cilantro leaves on top. These little touches add contrast and invite everyone to dig in with their eyes first.
Side Dishes
Traditionally, bulgogi pairs beautifully with simple steamed rice and an array of Korean side dishes, known as banchan. Think kimchi for a tangy kick, pickled radishes for crunch, or a mild cucumber salad to refresh the palate. These sides add layers of texture and flavor that complement the rich, savory beef perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to switch things up? Serve the bulgogi as a filling for tacos with a drizzle of spicy mayo and some crunchy slaw for a Korean-Mexican fusion. Or try it stuffed inside lettuce wraps with a dollop of gochujang sauce for a low-carb, fresh bite that’s bursting with flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the bulgogi in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing and leave some space in the container for expansion.
Reheating
When reheating, gently warm the bulgogi in a skillet over medium heat to preserve its texture and avoid drying out. Adding a splash of water or a little oil can help maintain moisture and keep it tasting fresh and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use ground pork or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground pork or chicken can be swapped in for a leaner or different flavor profile. Just be mindful cooking times may vary slightly due to fat content and texture differences.
Is the grated pear really necessary?
The pear is traditional and adds natural sweetness and tenderness, but if you can’t find it or prefer not to use it, the recipe still works wonderfully without it.
How spicy is this Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe?
As written, this recipe isn’t spicy, focusing instead on sweet and savory notes. You can easily add some red pepper flakes or a dollop of gochujang if you want to add heat.
What type of rice pairs best with bulgogi?
Short-grain white rice is typically used in Korean cuisine and pairs beautifully with bulgogi. However, jasmine or brown rice can also work well, depending on your preference.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, you can mix the marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day. This can save you time when you’re ready to cook.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s simple to prepare, bursting with flavor, and perfect for sharing or enjoying as a cozy solo meal. I encourage you to try it soon, whether you’re new to Korean cooking or a seasoned fan. Once you taste that tender, flavorful beef, you’ll see why it’s a go-to favorite in my kitchen.
Print
Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
Ground Beef Bulgogi is a quick and flavorful Korean-inspired dish featuring lean ground beef marinated in a savory-sweet sauce of soy, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil, then sautéed to perfection. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and can be served over rice or wrapped in lettuce for a fresh, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Beef and Marinade
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 small pear (optional), grated
Garnish
- 3 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and grated pear (if using) until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Marinate the Beef: Add the ground beef to the marinade bowl and mix thoroughly until all the beef is coated evenly. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Cook: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated ground beef to the hot skillet and sauté, breaking up the meat with a spatula, for 8 to 10 minutes or until the beef is fully browned and cooked through.
- Finish: During the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped green onions to add freshness and a mild onion flavor. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat. Serve the ground beef bulgogi hot over rice or wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves.
Notes
- Marinating the beef for at least 30 minutes enhances the depth of flavor, but you can marinate for up to 2 hours for an even richer taste.
- The grated pear is optional but adds natural sweetness and helps tenderize the beef.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and maintain a healthier dish.
- Serve with steamed rice, kimchi, or fresh vegetables for a complete Korean-inspired meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or microwave.
