Name: Korean Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 2 english cucumbers, thinly sliced; ¾ cup rice vinegar or white vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey or sugar; Kosher salt and cracked black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 (10-ounce) bags shredded carrots; 2 teaspoons olive oil; 1 cup grated onion; 1 heaping tablespoon minced fresh garlic; 1 heaping tablespoon grated fresh ginger; 2 pounds 90% lean ground beef; 3–4 tablespoons honey; 3–4 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 3 tablespoons gochujang; 2 tablespoons mirin or rice wine; White sesame seeds, for garnish; Bibb lettuce leaves; Cooked rice; Sambal oelek (chili garlic sauce); Kimchi

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 35 reviews

If you’re looking for a deliciously easy dinner that bursts with bold flavors and comes together in no time, then this Korean Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe is going to be your new favorite. It balances the sweetness of honey, the savory punch of soy sauce, and the gentle heat of gochujang to create a dish that’s rich, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or whenever you crave that perfect umami kick, this recipe brings all the flavors of traditional bulgogi, but with a convenient ground beef twist that’s quick to prepare and endlessly versatile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Several small white bowls and one larger white bowl are arranged on a white marbled surface. The large bowl in the bottom left contains bright red raw ground meat with a chunky texture. Above it, a white bowl holds a fluffy white mashed ingredient. Next to it, a small white bowl contains a thick deep red sauce sitting in light amber liquid. To the top right, another small white bowl holds a clear dark brown liquid, likely soy sauce. Next to it, a bowl contains a pale yellow liquid. On the far right, a small white bowl is divided into sections, holding a light beige paste and black pepper. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Korean Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe plays a vital role – from the fragrant garlic and ginger that build a flavorful foundation to the honey and soy sauce that create the iconic sweet and savory glaze. You’ll notice simple components, but combined, they deliver incredible depth and balance. Here’s everything you’ll want on hand:

2 teaspoons olive oil: For sautéing and locking in that meaty flavor.
1 cup grated onion: Adds moisture and sweetness while tenderizing the beef.
1 heaping tablespoon minced fresh garlic: Gives a vibrant and aromatic punch essential to bulgogi.
1 heaping tablespoon grated fresh ginger: Adds warmth and complexity, balancing the sweetness.
2 pounds 90% lean ground beef: The hearty, protein-packed star of the dish.
3–4 tablespoons honey: Brings a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
3–4 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: For that salty, umami-rich base that defines the flavor profile.
3 tablespoons gochujang: The Korean chili paste that adds depth and a gentle heat.
2 tablespoons mirin or rice wine: Adds a touch of acidity and subtle sweetness, elevating the sauce.

How to Make Korean Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Aromatics

Start by grating the onion and mincing the garlic and ginger. These aromatics form the magical base of the dish, infusing the beef with intense flavors and moisture that keep every bite juicy and tender.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned and beginning to caramelize, breaking it up into bite-sized crumbles. This step creates a rich, meaty foundation crucial for a good bulgogi.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Combine

Once the beef is browned, stir in the grated onion, garlic, and ginger. Let them cook together for a few minutes until the onions soften and the kitchen smells irresistible. This enhances the beef’s flavor and ensures the aromatics are cooked through.

Step 4: Mix in the Sauce Ingredients

Now for the magic: add honey, low-sodium soy sauce, gochujang, and mirin. Stir to evenly coat the beef and allow the sauce to thicken slightly as it simmers. This glaze is where the signature sweet, savory, and gently spicy flavors of bulgogi develop.

Step 5: Final Simmer and Taste

Lower the heat and let everything meld together for another 3 to 5 minutes to fully marry the flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings if you like, maybe a pinch more soy sauce for saltiness or an extra dash of honey for sweetness. Your Korean Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe is now ready to shine.

How to Serve Korean Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe

A white bowl shows a dish with five clear layers: at the bottom, there is a base of white rice, topped with green leafy lettuce around the edges. On one side, there are thin ribbons of pale green cucumber, folded softly. Next to it, bright orange shredded carrots form a neat pile. In the center on top of the rice sits a generous mound of brown cooked ground meat with a few drops of bright red sauce and sprinkled white sesame seeds. Fresh chopped green onions are scattered on the meat. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface with a pair of black chopsticks resting on its edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To bring out the flavors and add some fresh texture, sprinkle a handful of white sesame seeds on top just before serving. For a burst of freshness, crisp bibb lettuce leaves make an excellent wrap to hold the savory beef – they’re perfect for scooping up every last bite.

Side Dishes

Serving this bulgogi over fluffy steamed rice is a classic approach that balances the rich sauce beautifully. If you’re up for it, a side of tangy kimchi complements the dish’s sweetness with a little fermented bite that wakes up the palate, while pickled cucumbers or shredded carrots add a refreshing crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to mix things up, try serving the bulgogi in warm tortillas or as a filling for lettuce wraps alongside sliced avocado and a drizzle of sambal oelek for extra heat. You can even turn it into a Korean-inspired taco night that’s guaranteed to wow your friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Korean Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve freshness and flavor, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy days.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked bulgogi in a sealed freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to keep the beef tender and juicy without drying out the sauce. Adding a splash of water or soy sauce can help restore moisture if needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional and flavorful, turkey can be great alternatives. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may need a little extra oil or sauce to stay moist and tasty.

Is gochujang very spicy?

Gochujang has a mild to moderate heat with a rich, slightly sweet, and fermented flavor. You can adjust the amount used in the recipe according to your spice tolerance without losing the signature taste.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! To make a vegetarian Korean Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe, substitute the beef with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or even finely chopped mushrooms. Use soy sauce and all other ingredients as directed for a similar savory-sweet flavor profile.

What if I don’t have mirin or rice wine?

If you don’t have mirin or rice wine, you can substitute it with a mixture of dry sherry and a pinch of sugar, or simply use a little extra honey and a splash of water to balance the sweetness and acidity.

How long does it take to prepare this Korean Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe?

From start to finish, it typically takes about 25 to 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a quick, flavorful weeknight meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste for convenience.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Korean Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe enough – it’s easy to make, endlessly delicious, and perfect for anyone who loves vibrant, balanced flavors with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a go-to for satisfying cravings and impressing dinner guests!