This Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe is a quick and flavorful take on the classic Korean dish. Made with ground beef, a sweet-savory soy-based sauce, and aromatic garlic and ginger, this dish delivers all the bold flavors of traditional bulgogi with a simpler preparation.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or a side of stir-fried vegetables. It’s a versatile dish that’s easily customizable to suit your taste, making it a family favorite.
Let’s dive into the ingredients and learn how to make this delicious Korean-inspired comfort food!
Ingredients for Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
Gather these simple and flavorful ingredients to make this quick and delicious Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe:
For the Ground Beef Bulgogi:
- 1 pound ground beef – Lean or extra-lean ground beef works best for a flavorful yet balanced dish.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil – Adds a nutty aroma and richness to the dish.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Provides bold, savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated – Adds a touch of warmth and complexity.
For the Bulgogi Sauce:
- ¼ cup soy sauce – The salty base of the sauce. Use low-sodium for a lighter option.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Balances the saltiness with sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Adds a hint of tanginess.
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds – Adds texture and nuttiness.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For a slight kick of heat.
Optional Add-Ins and Toppings:
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced – Stirred in for sweetness and texture.
- 1 cup shredded carrots – For added color and crunch.
- 2 green onions, chopped – Used as a fresh garnish.
- Cooked rice or noodles – For serving.
Instructions for Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare a flavorful and quick Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe:
Step 1: Prepare the Bulgogi Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame seeds, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Set the sauce aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 4–5 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Push the cooked beef to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil, followed by the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, then stir them into the beef.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Pour the prepared bulgogi sauce over the beef mixture. Stir well to coat the beef evenly. Reduce the heat to medium and let the beef simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Optional Vegetables
If using onions or carrots, stir them into the skillet and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until they soften slightly.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the ground beef bulgogi over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions and extra sesame seeds for a fresh and nutty finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy
This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Budget-Friendly
Using ground beef instead of traditional thinly sliced steak keeps the recipe affordable while still delivering authentic bulgogi flavors.
Bursting with Flavor
The combination of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates a bold, savory-sweet taste that’s irresistible.
Customizable
You can easily add your favorite vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and variety.
Versatile Serving Options
Serve it over rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. It’s a meal that can adapt to your preferences.
Family-Friendly
The sweet and savory flavors are a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a great recipe for family dinners.
Tips for Success
Use Fresh Aromatics
For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and ginger instead of powdered versions. They bring a robust, authentic taste to the dish.
Don’t Skip the Sauce
The bulgogi sauce is the heart of this recipe. Ensure you whisk it well to dissolve the sugar and evenly distribute the flavors.
Choose the Right Ground Beef
Use lean or extra-lean ground beef to avoid excess grease. If using regular ground beef, drain any excess fat after cooking for a cleaner dish.
Adjust the Sweetness
If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar by 1 tablespoon. For a sweeter profile, add an extra tablespoon.
Add Vegetables for Crunch
Incorporating vegetables like shredded carrots, thinly sliced onions, or bell peppers adds texture, flavor, and a boost of nutrition to the dish.
Toast the Sesame Seeds
Lightly toasting the sesame seeds before adding them to the dish enhances their nutty flavor and aroma.
Serve Immediately
Ground beef bulgogi is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Have your rice or noodles ready before starting the cooking process to serve right away.
Double the Recipe for Meal Prep
This recipe reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Double the ingredients and store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Variants of Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
Spicy Ground Beef Bulgogi
Add 1–2 teaspoons of gochujang (Korean red chili paste) or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.
Low-Carb Bulgogi Bowl
Serve the ground beef bulgogi over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps for a delicious low-carb alternative. Add sliced cucumbers or kimchi for extra crunch and flavor.
Ground Turkey Bulgogi
Substitute the ground beef with lean ground turkey for a lighter version of the recipe. It retains the savory-sweet flavors while reducing fat content.
Vegetarian Bulgogi
Replace the ground beef with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or plant-based ground meat. Use the same sauce for a flavorful vegetarian option.
Bulgogi Fried Rice
Turn the recipe into fried rice by mixing the cooked bulgogi with day-old rice, scrambled eggs, and extra soy sauce. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for a complete meal.
Bulgogi Noodle Stir-Fry
Toss the cooked ground beef bulgogi with stir-fried vegetables and cooked noodles like udon, soba, or ramen for a hearty, noodle-based meal.
Sweet Bulgogi Sliders
Use the ground beef bulgogi as a filling for mini burger buns. Top with a dollop of kimchi or coleslaw for a unique appetizer or party dish.
Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
Serve Over Steamed Rice
Pair the savory bulgogi with fluffy white rice or fragrant jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Make a Bulgogi Bowl
Layer the ground beef bulgogi over rice and top with sautéed or steamed vegetables like spinach, carrots, and zucchini for a balanced bowl. Add a fried egg on top for extra richness.
Pair with Noodles
Serve the bulgogi over cooked noodles such as udon, soba, or ramen for a hearty and satisfying meal. Toss the noodles in a little soy sauce for added flavor.
Wrap in Lettuce Leaves
Create lettuce wraps with butter lettuce or romaine leaves. Add the bulgogi, rice, and optional toppings like sliced cucumbers or kimchi for a fresh, low-carb option.
Serve with Stir-Fried Vegetables
Pair the dish with stir-fried broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for added crunch and nutrition.
Add Korean Sides
Complete the meal with classic Korean banchan (side dishes) like kimchi, pickled radishes, or spicy cucumbers.
Make Bulgogi Tacos
Spoon the bulgogi into soft tortillas and garnish with shredded cabbage, sliced green onions, and a drizzle of spicy mayo for a fun, fusion-style twist.
FAQs About Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
What can I use instead of sesame oil?
If you don’t have sesame oil, use a neutral oil like vegetable or avocado oil and add a small amount of toasted sesame seeds for a similar flavor.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not inherently, but you can make it spicy by adding gochujang (Korean chili paste), crushed red pepper flakes, or sriracha to the sauce.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the ground beef bulgogi and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store the cooked bulgogi in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What are the best toppings?
Chopped green onions, sesame seeds, shredded carrots, or a fried egg are excellent toppings that enhance the dish’s presentation and flavor.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to bring Korean-inspired cuisine to your table. With its rich, savory sauce and tender ground beef, it’s a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.
Whether served over rice, paired with noodles, or enjoyed in lettuce wraps, this versatile recipe is easily adaptable to suit your preferences. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and sure to become a family favorite.
Give this recipe a try, and experience the delicious taste of bulgogi with minimal effort!
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