Ground Beef Bulgogi is a tasty twist on the classic Korean dish. This quick and easy recipe features marinated ground beef, giving it a sweet and savory flavor that’s so delicious!
Making this dish is fun and stress-free. I love to serve it over rice with some crisp vegetables. It’s a hit at my dinner table, and trust me, everyone asks for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef is ideal for flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, 90/10 works too, but it may be less juicy. Ground turkey or chicken can serve as a lighter substitute, ensuring similar cooking times.
Soy Sauce: This ingredient brings saltiness and depth. For a gluten-free option, you can choose tamari or coconut aminos. You could also reduce the amount for a lower sodium version.
Brown Sugar: It balances the salty soy sauce. If you’re looking for alternatives, try honey or a sugar substitute like agave syrup. Adjust according to your taste for sweetness.
Sesame Oil: It adds a rich, nutty flavor. If you don’t have sesame oil, try using olive oil or peanut oil, but keep in mind the flavor will differ slightly.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add heat! You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference. If you don’t have them, try a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Beef Bulgogi?
The marinade is key to flavor. Mixing soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes creates a rich taste. Allowing the beef to soak in the marinade for even a short time enhances the dish’s depth.
- Mix your marinade ingredients well in a bowl before adding them to the cooked beef.
- After browning the ground beef, let it simmer in the marinade for a couple of minutes. This helps the meat absorb all those yummy flavors.
- Stir in the green onions at the end for a fresh bite without overcooking them.
How to Make Ground Beef Bulgogi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- Lettuce leaves (for serving)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Kimchi (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have a delicious Ground Beef Bulgogi ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes. This will create a tasty marinade that gives the beef its flavor. Set it aside while you cook the meat.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is browned and fully cooked through.
3. Add the Marinade:
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat if necessary. Then lower the heat to a simmer and pour the marinade over the beef. Stir well to coat the meat evenly. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, so the flavors can blend beautifully. Stir in the chopped green onions at the very end.
4. Assemble Your Bulgogi Bowls:
To serve, place a scoop of cooked rice at the bottom of a bowl. Top it with a hearty portion of the seasoned ground beef. Arrange the grated carrot and cucumber slices around the beef for a fresh crunch.
5. Final Touches:
Serve your Bulgogi with lettuce leaves for wrapping, and garnish everything with sesame seeds and extra green onions. If you like a little spice, add kimchi on the side. Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Ground Beef Bulgogi bowl!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use leaner ground beef, but keep in mind that the dish may be less juicy. If you opt for ground turkey or chicken, consider adding a bit more sesame oil for richness, as those meats can be drier.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or use a microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heat distribution.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! You can easily increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the marinade to suit your spice level. Additionally, consider serving with a spicy kimchi or a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick.
What Can I Use Instead of Soy Sauce?
If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. For a lower-sodium alternative, look for low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos, which will still provide that delicious umami flavor!
