Ground Beef Bulgogi is a tasty twist on a classic Korean dish. It’s made with sweet and savory marinated beef, packed with flavor, and cooked until perfectly tender!
This dish is quick to make and pairs great with rice or in lettuce wraps. I love how it’s a fun and easy way to impress my friends at dinner without breaking a sweat! 🙌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and juiciness. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken could work as substitutes, but the dish will have a different taste.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free version, swap regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. I find that low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness, especially if you like to adjust flavors while cooking.
Brown Sugar: If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup, adjusting the amount to taste. This adds a lovely sweetness while keeping the dish nice and flavorful.
Gochujang: If you can’t find gochujang, Sriracha or another chili paste can work, though it won’t match the unique flavor exactly. Just start with less, as Sriracha can be spicier.
Vegetables: You can mix and match the veggies! If you don’t have cucumbers or carrots, shredded cabbage or bell peppers are tasty alternatives.
How do I perfectly marinate ground beef for Bulgogi?
Marinating ground beef is essential for achieving that rich bulgogi flavor. The marinade tenderizes the meat while infusing it with deep, savory notes. Here’s how to do it right:
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, ginger, black pepper, and gochujang.
- Add ground beef and mix thoroughly, ensuring every bit is coated.
- Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For stronger flavor, marinate longer, even up to several hours.
How to Make Ground Beef Bulgogi?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bulogi:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or sushi rice)
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup lettuce leaves
- Kimchi (optional, for serving)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ground Beef Bulgogi recipe takes about 40 minutes in total: 10 minutes for preparing the ingredients and marinating the beef, followed by 15 minutes for cooking, and then a little time for assembling the bowls. It’s quick and perfect for a tasty meal at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, black pepper, and gochujang. Use your hands or a spoon to make sure the beef is fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can soak in.
2. Cook the Beef:
Once the beef has marinated, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated ground beef to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes or until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Make sure to break up the meat as it cooks for even browning. When done, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
3. Assemble Your Bowls:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Start with a generous base of cooked rice in each bowl. Then, add a scoop of the bulgogi beef on top. Finish off with the sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, and a few lettuce leaves for crunch. If you like a little extra spice, serve your Bulgogi bowls with kimchi on the side. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use a Different Protein Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly; ground chicken and turkey will cook similarly to beef, while tofu should be pressed and crumbled to achieve the right texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Yes! If you like more heat, you can increase the amount of gochujang or add sliced fresh chili peppers to the beef while cooking. For a different flavor profile, consider adding a dash of sriracha or chili flakes.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, or in the microwave until heated through. If the beef seems dry, add a splash of water or broth while reheating to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve with Ground Beef Bulgogi?
This dish is delicious served over rice, but you can also enjoy it in lettuce wraps for a lighter meal. Pair with kimchi or pickled vegetables for added flavor and crunch!
