Authentic Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe

Ground beef bulgogi is a quick and easy Korean-inspired dish packed with bold flavors. Unlike traditional bulgogi made with thinly sliced beef, this version uses ground beef for a budget-friendly and fast alternative. With a balance of sweet, savory, and umami-rich ingredients, ground beef bulgogi is perfect for serving over rice, in lettuce wraps, or as a meal prep option.

This dish is incredibly versatile, requiring minimal ingredients, and can be made in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a fan of Korean cuisine or trying it for the first time, this ground beef bulgogi recipe will surely become a go-to favorite.

Ingredients

For the Bulgogi Beef:

1 lb (450g) ground beef
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp grated ginger
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening, optional)
1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)

For Garnish & Serving:

2 green onions, chopped
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Cooked white rice or brown rice
Lettuce leaves (for wraps)

How to Make Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe ?

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add the Bulgogi Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked ground beef and stir well to coat. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the pan.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice or in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Your delicious and easy ground beef bulgogi is ready to be enjoyed!

Variations

Spicy Version: Add 1–2 teaspoons of gochujang (Korean chili paste) for extra heat and depth of flavor.
Sweeter Bulgogi: Increase the brown sugar or add a teaspoon of honey for a more caramelized taste.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Mix in sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice and serve the bulgogi in lettuce wraps or over cauliflower rice.
Protein Swap: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for a different take.

Cooking Notes

Use 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture.
Don’t overcook the beef—keeping it slightly juicy enhances the overall taste.
If you like a sticky glaze, let the sauce reduce for a minute before removing it from the heat.
Freshly toasted sesame seeds add a wonderful nutty aroma—toast them lightly in a dry pan before adding.

Serving Suggestions

Over Steamed Rice: The classic way to enjoy bulgogi with short-grain white rice or brown rice.
In Lettuce Wraps: Use butter lettuce or romaine for a fresh, crunchy bite.
With Kimchi & Pickled Veggies: Serve alongside traditional Korean side dishes for an authentic experience.
Bulgogi Tacos: Wrap in soft tortillas with shredded cabbage and spicy mayo for a fusion twist.
As a Meal Prep: Store in airtight containers with rice for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Helpful Tips

Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, mix the sauce with raw ground beef and let it marinate for 15–30 minutes before cooking.
Use Fresh Garlic & Ginger: Avoid powdered versions for the most authentic taste.
Balance the Sweetness & Saltiness: Adjust soy sauce and sugar to your preference.
Make it a One-Pan Meal: Add veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach while cooking.

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FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of meat for bulgogi?

Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a lighter version.

Q2: Is this dish spicy?

Not by default, but you can add gochujang, chili flakes, or sriracha for a spicier kick.

Q3: How long does ground beef bulgogi last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.

Q4: Can I freeze ground beef bulgogi?

Yes! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q5: What side dishes go well with bulgogi?

Classic Korean sides like kimchi, pickled radish, steamed vegetables, or miso soup pair perfectly.

Conclusion

Ground beef bulgogi is an easy, quick, and incredibly flavorful dish that brings the taste of Korea right to your kitchen. Whether served over rice, in lettuce wraps, or in a fusion-style taco, this meal is versatile, budget-friendly, and perfect for weeknights.

Try this recipe today and let us know how you like it! Enjoy your homemade Korean-style bulgogi. 🍽️😋