This Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi is a tasty twist on a classic Korean dish. With sweet, soy sauce flavors and a little garlic, it’s quick to whip up for dinner!
Serve it over rice and watch everyone come back for seconds. I love how simple it is—just mix, cook, and enjoy! Who knew dinner could be this easy and yummy? 🍚😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 or 85/15 for a nice balance of flavor and juiciness. For a leaner option, turkey or chicken can be used instead, but the flavor profile will change slightly.
Soy Sauce: I like using low-sodium soy sauce, so the dish isn’t too salty. If gluten-free, swap it with tamari sauce.
Brown Sugar: You can use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener. It gives the same sweetness with a different flavor twist!
Sesame Oil: This gives a great nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, a light vegetable oil will work, but you’ll miss that unique taste.
Green Onions: They are essential for freshness! If you don’t have them on hand, chopped shallots can add a similar oniony punch.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from Marinating the Beef?
Marinating the beef is key to infusing flavors deeply. For the best results, follow these steps:
- Mix the marinade ingredients well before adding the ground beef. This allows the flavors to combine before they touch the meat.
- Let the beef sit in the marinade for at least 10 minutes; longer is better! A 30-minute soak can enhance the taste.
- Make sure to coat the beef evenly, giving it a good mix with your hands or a spoon.
This allows the flavors to penetrate every bite, making your bulgogi genuinely delicious!
Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (reserve some for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced or shaved ribbons
- Butter lettuce leaves or any leafy greens
- Sriracha sauce or gochujang (Korean chili paste) for drizzling (optional)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, making a total of about 20 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious dinner option that your whole family will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine all the flavors into a tasty marinade.
2. Marinate the Beef
Add the ground beef and sliced green onions to the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until the beef is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes; if you can, let it sit for up to 30 minutes for even better flavor!
3. Cook the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the marinated ground beef. As it cooks, break it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and cooked through. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off!
4. Assemble Your Bowl
To serve, take a large butter lettuce leaf or a handful of your favorite leafy greens and place it in a bowl. Add a scoop of cooked white rice in the center. On top of the rice, pile on the cooked bulgogi beef, followed by the shredded carrots and cucumber ribbons.
5. Garnish and Enjoy
Finish off your bowl by sprinkling on the reserved green onions and sesame seeds. For an extra kick, drizzle with sriracha or gochujang sauce if you’d like. Now grab your chopsticks or fork and enjoy this vibrant and savory dish!
This Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will be a bit different, and you may want to adjust the seasoning slightly to enhance the taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Bulgogi?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors will continue to develop, making for an even tastier next-day meal!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and let it marinate up to 2 hours in advance, or even overnight in the fridge. Just remember to cook it right before serving to retain its deliciousness and texture!
What Can I Serve with Ground Beef Bulgogi?
This dish is fantastic with rice, but you can also serve it with other sides like steamed vegetables, quinoa, or even in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Pair it with kimchi for added flavor!
