Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi: Your New Favorite Korean-Inspired Dinner

Are you craving a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that your entire family will love? Look no further than this easy ground beef bulgogi recipe. Whether you’re a fan of Korean cuisine or looking to try something new for dinner tonight, this dish delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, this Korean-inspired recipe uses simple ingredients and requires little prep time.

In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making ground beef bulgogi. From essential ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips for customizing the recipe to your preferences, this guide has it all. By the end, you’ll have a go-to dish that is both healthy and delicious.

What is Beef Bulgogi?

Bulgogi is a popular Korean dish traditionally made with thinly sliced marinated beef or pork that’s grilled or stir-fried. The word “bulgogi” literally translates to “fire meat,” referring to the cooking method over an open flame.

While classic bulgogi uses ribeye or sirloin steak, this recipe simplifies the dish by using ground beef. Ground beef bulgogi retains all the delicious savory, sweet, and umami flavors of the traditional recipe while being faster and more affordable to make.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe

This easy bulgogi recipe offers several benefits:

1. Quick to Make: Ready in just 20-30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
2. Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ground beef instead of pricey cuts of meat.
3. Family-Friendly: The combination of sweet and savory flavors appeals to kids and adults alike.
4. Healthy Option: High in protein and easy to pair with vegetables for a balanced meal.
5. Versatile: Serve it with rice, noodles, lettuce wraps, or even on top of a salad.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Bulgogi

You likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch fresh ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium works best)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey for a healthier option)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional, for tanginess)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1/2 onion, sliced thinly
• 1 small carrot, julienned
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 bell pepper, diced

For Serving:

• Cooked white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice
• Lettuce leaves (for wraps)
• Kimchi (as a side)

How to Make Ground Beef Bulgogi: Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make this quick and tasty beef bulgogi recipe:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and chop the green onions. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

• Heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
• Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Add Flavor to the Beef

• Reduce the heat to medium.
• Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and rice vinegar (if using).
• Stir well to combine and let the beef absorb the flavors.
• Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef.

Step 4: Add Optional Vegetables

• If you’re adding vegetables like onions, carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers, toss them into the skillet.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes until the veggies are slightly softened but still crisp.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle the ground beef bulgogi with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
• Serve hot with steamed rice, in lettuce wraps, or however you prefer.

Tips for Making the Best Ground Beef Bulgogi

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger add the best flavor. Avoid using powders if possible.
• Don’t Overcook the Beef: Cook until just browned to keep the beef juicy.
• Customize the Spice Level: Add red pepper flakes or gochujang (Korean chili paste) for more heat.
• Balance the Sweetness: Adjust the sugar or honey to suit your taste preferences.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: Ground beef bulgogi stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Serving Ideas for Ground Beef Bulgogi

Ground beef bulgogi is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving ideas to keep your meals exciting:

1. Serve Over Rice

The classic way to enjoy bulgogi is over a bowl of steamed white rice or brown rice. The beef pairs perfectly with the slightly neutral flavor of rice.

2. Make Lettuce Wraps

Use large lettuce leaves, such as romaine or butter lettuce, to create fresh and healthy wraps. Add cooked beef, a bit of rice, and toppings like green onions and sesame seeds.

3. Add to Noodles

Mix the ground beef bulgogi with stir-fried noodles for a heartier meal. Udon, soba, or ramen noodles work particularly well.

4. Build a Bulgogi Bowl

Create a nutritious bulgogi bowl with rice, roasted vegetables, kimchi, and a fried egg on top.

5. Bulgogi Tacos

For a fusion twist, use ground beef bulgogi as a taco filling. Top with cabbage slaw, sriracha mayo, and pickled vegetables.

Nutrition Information for Ground Beef Bulgogi

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional value for one serving (without rice):

Note: Exact values will vary based on the ingredients and portion sizes used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make Ground Beef Bulgogi Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can make ground beef bulgogi ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

2. Can I Freeze Ground Beef Bulgogi?

Absolutely. Allow the beef to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

3. Can I Use Other Types of Meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for ground beef. Adjust the seasoning slightly to match the flavor profile.

4. Is This Recipe Spicy?

The recipe as written is mild. Add red pepper flakes or gochujang if you prefer a spicier version.

Conclusion

Ground beef bulgogi is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Korean cuisine to your dinner table. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and sure to become a family favorite.

Whether you serve it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or as part of a bulgogi bowl, this dish offers endless versatility. Give this easy bulgogi recipe a try, and you’ll soon see why it’s a winner.