Ground Beef Bulgogi

Name: Ground Beef Bulgogi
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20); 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 2 tsp sesame oil; 4 green onions, chopped; 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Published: June 13, 2025

by samuel cullingham

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy-to-make Ground Beef Bulgogi captures the essence of Korean flavors in every bite
The marinade provides a delightful balance of sweetness and umami that keeps you coming back for more
Visually appealing with its glistening beef and colorful vegetables, it makes an impressive centerpiece for any meal
Plus, it’s versatile enough for tacos or lettuce wraps if you’re feeling adventurous!

I once surprised my family with this recipe during a casual Friday dinner, and let’s just say, they were asking for seconds before they’d even finished their first plate!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness; leaner options can dry out.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness; it’s essential for that umami kick.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps caramelize the meat; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must; it infuses incredible flavor into the marinade.
Ginger: Grated ginger provides warmth and depth; always choose fresh over powdered for best results.
Sesame Oil: A drizzle of toasted sesame oil enhances the nutty flavor profile beautifully.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh crunch; use both white and green parts for color.
Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds are optional but lend a lovely texture and visual appeal.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare yourself for an adventure in flavor as we transform simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece!

Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil until combined. Add ground beef to this mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes; longer is better if you have time!

Sauté the Mixture: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated ground beef and cook until browned and caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 7-10 minutes. Enjoy that sizzling sound as you stir!

Add Vegetables: Toss in chopped green onions during the last couple of minutes of cooking. Their vibrant green color brightens up the dish while adding crunch, talk about eye candy!

Serve with Style: Transfer your beautiful bulgogi to a serving platter or individual bowls. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for that extra flair!

Pair It Up: Serve with warm rice or lettuce leaves. The combination creates delightful wraps that are fun to assemble, perfect for sharing (or hoarding all to yourself).

Enjoy your homemade Ground Beef Bulgogi! Don’t forget to take pictures because this dish deserves its own Instagram moment! For more inspiration, check out this Korean Twisted Donuts recipe.

You Must Know

Ground beef bulgogi is a delightful twist on traditional Korean flavors, offering rich taste and quick preparation
The aromatic marinade infuses the beef with a sweet and savory profile, making it irresistible
Plus, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the ground beef for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor. Cook it in a hot skillet, breaking it apart until browned and caramelized for about 10-15 minutes.

Add Your Touch

Experiment with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this delicious dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover ground beef bulgogi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh ingredients for the marinade to maximize flavor; stale ingredients can dull the taste
Always allow the meat to rest after cooking to keep it juicy
Adjust sweetness by adding more or less sugar based on your preference

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone fought over seconds. My uncle once claimed he could rival my bulgogi, but let’s just say he never stood a chance!

FAQ

Can I use different types of meat for ground beef bulgogi?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or pork also works beautifully in this recipe.

How long should I marinate the beef?

For best results, marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

What sides pair well with ground beef bulgogi?

Serve it with rice, kimchi, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

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📖 Recipe Card