Looking for a Dinner Recipe that’s Both Mouthwatering and Quick? Korean Ground Beef Blugogi Recipe is the Choice

Welcome to this quick and delicious recipe for Ground Beef Bulgogi, a Korean-inspired dish adapted for modern home cooks. Discover how to transform ground beef into a flavorful, easy meal that captures the essence of traditional Bulgogi, typically made with marinated, grilled beef. This recipe is perfect for those seeking authentic Korean flavors without the hassle, using accessible ingredients.

What’s in a Name?

Ever wondered where the name “Bulgogi” comes from? Well, let’s dive into a little history. The word “Bulgogi” comes from Korean, where “bul” means fire and “gogi” translates to meat. So, essentially, it’s fire-grilled meat – and while this ground beef version isn’t grilled over an open flame, it captures the same smoky and garlicky essence of the original.

Here’s a fun fact: When I first introduced my kids to this dish, they devoured it without realizing it was anything “fancy.” Now, they beg me to make it every week! It’s a testament to the truth that good food is the ultimate way to bring people together. After all, as the old saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.”

So, curious about how to make this magic happen? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe

Simple and Quick

This recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and cooking time under 20 minutes, you can have a fresh, flavorful meal ready faster than ordering takeout.

Budget-Friendly

Ground beef is an affordable protein option that’s perfect for feeding a family. Plus, many of the ingredients, like soy sauce, garlic, and sugar, are probably already in your pantry.

Flavorful and Customizable Toppings

The sauce is the star of this dish – a rich blend of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil that gives the ground beef a sticky, savory glaze. You can serve it over rice with your favorite toppings, like green onions, kimchi, or a fried egg for added texture and flavor.

If you’re a fan of Korean flavors, you’ll also love Korean Ground Beef Tacos, another fun twist on traditional recipes.

How to Make the Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe

Quick Overview

This recipe is an easy, stir-fry-style version of Korean Beef Bulgogi. It’s made with ground beef and a quick, sweet-and-savory sauce that’s ready in just a few minutes. The dish is perfect for serving over a bed of rice or noodles.

Key Ingredients for the Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe

For the Bulgogi Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons grated Korean pear or apple
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Beef:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You can find our choices from Amazon via those links below:

• Skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Garlic press
• Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Instructions

Serve: Enjoy over steamed rice with kimchi or other Korean side dishes if desired.

Make the sauce: In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, grated pear/apple, minced garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Whisk until sugar is dissolved.

Prepare the beef: In a large bowl, add the ground beef and pour in about 3/4 of the sauce mixture. Using your hands or a spatula, gently mix until the beef is evenly coated. Let marinate for 10 minutes (even this short time makes a difference).

Heat the pan: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Cook onions: Add sliced onions and the white parts of green onions to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.

Cook the beef: Add the marinated ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 7-8 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through.

Add remaining sauce: Pour the remaining sauce into the pan and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce has slightly reduced.

Finish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with the green parts of the green onions and toasted sesame seeds.

Recipe Notes

• For a spicier version, add 1-2 teaspoons of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the sauce.
• Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option.
• If Korean pear is unavailable, use a regular pear or apple instead.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• This recipe freezes well for up to 2 months.

What to Serve with korean Ground Beef Bulgogi

One of the best things about this dish is that it pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
• Kimchi: Spicy fermented Korean cabbage adds a tangy contrast to the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Quick-roasted zucchini or bok choy complement the savory beef.
• Noodles: Try serving it over stir-fried noodles for a fun twist.
• Soft-Boiled Egg: Add extra protein and richness with a soft-boiled egg.

Top Tips for Perfecting Ground Beef Bulgogi

1. Use the Right Cut of Beef: Opt for 85% lean ground beef for the best flavor and texture.
2. Don’t Overcook: Cook the beef until it’s just done. Overcooking can make it dry.
3. Adjust the Heat: If you like spicy, add more red pepper flakes. If not, omit them entirely.
4. Add Texture with Toppings: Toppings like crispy garlic, green onions, or toasted sesame seeds add visual appeal and texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
• Freeze: For longer storage, portion the leftover beef into airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For More Beef Recipes.