The perfect weeknight meal, this sweet and savory Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe is a Korean-inspired dish that’s fast, flavorful, and satisfying! Made with ground beef for a budget-friendly twist, it has all the garlicky, gingery, soy-sesame goodness of traditional bulgogi. In just 25 minutes, serve it over steamed rice, topped with crispy sesame seeds and green onions for a delicious and comforting meal.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
✔ One-Pan Wonder : Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor!
✔ Sweet & Savory Perfection : The perfect balance of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness.
✔ Versatile & Customizable : Serve over rice, in lettuce wraps, or with veggies for a low-carb option.
Ingredients
For the Bulgogi:
- Ground Beef (80/20) : Ideal for a rich, juicy result.
- Sesame Oil : Essential for authentic Korean flavor.
- Garlic & Onion : The flavor foundation of this recipe.
- Soy Sauce : Adds deep umami richness (low-sodium recommended).
- Brown Sugar (or Honey) : Balances the saltiness with a touch of sweetness.
- Rice Vinegar : Adds a little acidity for a well-rounded flavor.
- Fresh Ginger : Adds warmth and depth.
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) : For a hint of heat.
- Black Pepper : Enhances all the flavors.
For Garnish & Serving:
- Green Onions : Brings a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- Sesame Seeds : Adds crunch and nuttiness.
- Steamed White or Jasmine Rice : The perfect base for soaking up the sauce.
- Shredded Carrots (Optional) : Adds a pop of color and sweetness.
- Kimchi (Optional) : For a fermented, spicy kick that pairs perfectly.
👉 The complete ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card below!
Discover more creative ways to use ground beef in this lip-smacking chili recipe.
How to Make Ground Beef Bulgogi
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
1️⃣ Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Add chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
3️⃣ Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add Bulgogi Flavors
4️⃣ Stir in the following seasonings: ✅ Soy sauce
✅ Brown sugar (or honey)
✅ Rice vinegar
✅ Ginger
✅ Red pepper flakes (if using)
✅ Black pepper
5️⃣ Let everything simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the beef to absorb all the bold, delicious flavors.
Step 3: Garnish & Serve
6️⃣ Remove from heat and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds.
7️⃣ Serve over hot white rice and enjoy!
8️⃣ Optional Toppings: Add fried eggs, kimchi, or shredded carrots for extra flavor and texture.
Pro Tips for the Best Bulgogi
✔ Use Fresh Garlic & Ginger : It makes a huge difference in flavor!
✔ Don’t Overcook the Beef : Keep it juicy by avoiding overcooking.
✔ Balance the Sweetness : If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar slightly.
✔ Want More Heat? Add extra red pepper flakes, gochujang, or Korean chili paste.
✔ Love Saucy Bulgogi? Double the soy sauce and brown sugar for extra sauce.
How to Serve
This easy ground beef bulgogi is super versatile! Try these serving ideas:
🍚 Classic Bowl: Serve over steamed white or jasmine rice, topped with green onions & sesame seeds.
🥬 Lettuce Wraps: Wrap the bulgogi in butter lettuce or romaine for a low-carb option.
🍱 Korean BBQ Plate: Pair with kimchi, pickled radishes, and steamed vegetables.
🌮 Korean Beef Tacos: Stuff into warm tortillas with shredded cabbage & sriracha mayo.
🍳 With a Fried Egg: Top with a runny fried egg for a decadent meal.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store cooled bulgogi in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium, adding a splash of water if needed.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a fantastic leaner option. You might need extra sesame oil to keep it moist.
2. Is bulgogi supposed to be spicy?
Traditional bulgogi is not very spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes, gochujang, or sriracha for heat.
3. Can I substitute rice vinegar?
For the most authentic flavor, rice vinegar is best, but you can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar as a substitute.
4. What other toppings can I add?
Try pickled radish, roasted seaweed strips, or sautéed mushrooms for extra umami flavor!
Conclusion
This Ground Beef Bulgogi tastes just like Korean BBQ, but it’s faster, easier, and more affordable! Whether served over rice, in lettuce wraps, or alongside kimchi, this meal is sure to be a hit.
🔥 Try it today and enjoy a savory-sweet dinner in just 25 minutes! 😋
Ground Beef Bulgogi
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Bulgogi Beef
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 for best flavor
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small onion finely diced
- ¼ cup soy sauce low sodium preferred
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for spice
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish & Serving
- 2 green onions chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 cup cooked white rice or jasmine rice
- ½ cup shredded carrots optional
- kimchi for serving, optional
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add sesame oil.
- Add garlic and onion, cooking for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the beef.
- Let simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve over a bed of steamed rice, with shredded carrots and kimchi on the side for extra flavor!