Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi

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If you’re craving bold, comforting flavor without spending hours in the kitchen, Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi is the dish you’ve been waiting for. This recipe brings the classic Korean BBQ taste to your dinner table using budget-friendly ground beef and pantry staples. It transforms humble ingredients into a sweet-savory meal that tastes like it took much more effort than it actually does.

Bulgogi typically refers to thinly sliced marinated beef grilled to perfection, but in this variation, we use ground beef for a quicker, equally delicious option. It’s the kind of weeknight winner you’ll want on repeat. Pair it with steamed rice, toss it in lettuce wraps, or load it onto a grain bowl — either way, it disappears fast.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi

It cooks in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights. The marinade is loaded with flavor from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar, coating the meat beautifully with a sticky, caramelized glaze. Plus, it’s family-friendly, customizable with spice, and perfect for meal prep.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

You can use any ground beef you prefer, but an 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio works best here. It has enough fat to stay juicy and soak up all that tasty sauce without turning greasy. If you’re using extra lean beef, consider adding a splash of sesame oil to balance out the richness.

Ingredients for the Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi

The beauty of this dish is how effortlessly it comes together with simple ingredients. Each component serves a purpose, from savory depth to sweet balance.

• Ground beef
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Garlic
• Fresh ginger
• Sesame oil
• Green onions
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Cooked white rice (for serving)

How To Make the Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. This sweet-salty mix is the magic behind the bulgogi flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

Pour the sauce over the cooked beef. Stir well to combine, then simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, letting the flavors absorb and the sauce thicken.

Step 4: Finish and Garnish

Toss in sliced green onions and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. Let everything mingle for another minute, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Spoon the bulgogi over warm rice, and garnish with sesame seeds or more scallions if you’d like.

Serving and Storing Your Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi

This recipe generously serves four, but leftovers are just as good — maybe even better the next day. Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freeze any unused portions for up to two months. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it back up when you’re ready.

What to Serve With Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi?

Steamed White Rice

The classic choice that soaks up all the delicious bulgogi sauce perfectly.

Kimchi

Add tang and heat with this fermented Korean staple. It brings balance to the rich beef.

Cucumber Salad

A cool, crisp side to offset the savory meat.

Lettuce Cups

Use crisp romaine or butter lettuce to create a wrap-your-own dinner.

Roasted Broccoli

A healthy and satisfying option that adds a bit of char and texture.

Fried Egg

Top your bulgogi bowl with a runny fried egg for a touch of indulgence.

Pickled Carrots and Daikon

These quick-pickled veggies brighten up the plate and add crunch.

Korean Pancakes (Pajeon)

If you’re feeling adventurous, serve with scallion pancakes for a fun dinner twist.

Want More Ground Beef Ideas?

If you love this savory bulgogi, check out more hearty dishes you can make with ground beef:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a rich, cheesy pasta.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta when you’re craving comfort in a bowl.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a fusion of bold beef flavor and pasta goodness.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a dreamy Alfredo twist.

Save This Recipe For Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make it spicy? Did you serve it in wraps or bowls?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Got questions? Ask away!

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