As a busy mom, I’m always looking for tasty, family-friendly meals that are quick to make. That’s why I’m excited to share this easy Korean ground beef bulgogi recipe with you. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings real Korean flavors to your kitchen in just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
With a few simple ingredients and a quick marinade, you can have a tasty meal ready in no time.
Main Highlights
- This easy ground beef bulgogi recipe takes just 20 minutes to prepare.
- The dish features a delicious Korean-inspired marinade that can be customized to your taste.
- Lean ground beef is recommended for the best results, with 85/15 or 90/10 mix being the ideal ratio.
- Serve the bulgogi over steamed white rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 4-5 days, making it a great option for meal prep.
Introduction to Ground Beef Bulgogi
Bulgogi is a favorite Korean dish with thinly sliced beef in a tasty marinade. This ground beef bulgogi recipe is a twist on the classic. It’s quicker to make, and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s great for busy nights or casual get-togethers.
What is Bulgogi?
Bulgogi means “fire meat” in Korean. It’s a beloved beef dish enjoyed for centuries. Traditionally, it’s marinated beef slices grilled or stir-fried.
The Difference Between Traditional and Ground Beef Bulgogi
Traditional bulgogi uses thinly sliced beef, often from the ribeye or sirloin. This ground beef bulgogi recipe uses ground beef. It’s quicker to prepare and has a different texture.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this ground beef bulgogi recipe for many reasons. It’s easy to make with minimal prep and simple ingredients. The flavors are bold and authentic. Plus, my family loves it, making it a regular dinner choice.
Ingredients for Ground Beef Bulgogi
To make a real Korean ground beef bulgogi at home, you need a few key ingredients. You’ll need ground beef, soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, oyster sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper. These ingredients mix to give bulgogi its unique sweet and savory flavor. You can also add some optional ingredients to make the dish your own.
Essential Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Ingredients for Customization
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 1-2 red chili peppers, sliced (for a spicier version)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
This recipe makes 4-6 servings. Each serving has about 633-884 calories. You can adjust the ingredients to make a tasty and personalized Korean ground beef bulgogi dish at home.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb |
| Soy Sauce | ¼ cup |
| Brown Sugar | ¼ cup |
| Garlic | 2 tsp minced |
| Ginger Paste | ½ tsp |
| Gochujang | 1 tbsp |
| Sesame Oil | 1 tbsp |
| Black Pepper | ½ tsp |
Preparation Steps for the Marinade
Making the perfect bulgogi sauce recipe is key to this Korean dish’s authentic taste. I’ll show you how to mix the marinade. This will turn your ground beef into a tasty how-to-make bulgogi dish.
Mixing the Marinade
In a small bowl, mix these ingredients for the bulgogi marinade:
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 4 cloves of minced garlic
- ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 2 chopped scallions
Whisk until the sugar dissolves. This makes a rich, flavorful marinade.
Marinating the Beef
In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with the marinade. Mix until the beef is coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 12 hours for better flavor.
Longer marinating time lets the beef soak up the sauce’s flavors. This makes the how to make bulgogi taste truly authentic and delicious.
Cooking Methods for Bulgogi
Preparing bulgogi beef stir fry or Korean beef bowl at home is exciting. The cooking method you pick can greatly affect the taste. Let’s look at different ways to enhance your ground beef bulgogi.
Stovetop Cooking
Cooking ground beef bulgogi on the stovetop is easy and common. Heat a big wok or skillet over medium-high. Add a tablespoon of oil and sauté onions and green onions until they’re soft, about 2-3 minutes.
Then, add the marinated ground beef. Cook for about 12 minutes, breaking it into small pieces. Let it brown well. Finish with sesame oil and more green onions.
Oven Broiling
For a simple method, try oven broiling. Preheat your oven’s broiler. Line a baking sheet with foil. Spread the marinated beef on it.
Broil for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway. This will make the beef cooked and slightly charred.
Grilling Options
- Grilling outdoors is great. Preheat the grill to high. Cook the beef for 6-8 minutes per side, until it’s done.
- For a stovetop grill pan, heat it over high. Cook the beef for 3-4 minutes per side, until charred and cooked.
Choose any cooking method, but make sure the beef is fully cooked. A caramelized exterior is key for a true bulgogi beef stir fry or Korean beef bowl taste.
Serving Suggestions
Ground beef bulgogi is very versatile. It goes well with many sides and toppings. Here are some tasty ways to enjoy your beef bulgogi.
Recommended Side Dishes
- Steamed white rice: The classic pairing. Serve the ground beef bulgogi over a bed of fluffy, steamed white rice for a traditional Korean-style meal.
- Blanched broccoli: Add a pop of green and texture by including lightly blanched broccoli florets as a side.
- Kimchi: For an authentic Korean flair, serve the bulgogi with a side of tangy, spicy kimchi.
- Bean sprouts: Fresh bean sprouts provide a crunchy contrast to the savory beef.
- Fried egg: Top the bulgogi bowl with a fried egg for an extra dose of protein and richness.
How to Serve Bulgogi
For a complete Korean-style beef bulgogi bowl, arrange the components separately in a bowl. Start with a base of steamed white rice, then top with the ground beef bulgogi. Arrange the side dishes, such as blanched broccoli, kimchi, and bean sprouts, around the edges of the bowl. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and additional green onions for a visually appealing and flavorful presentation.
Alternatively, you can serve the ground beef bulgogi in a more casual manner by placing it directly on the table with the various side dishes. This allows your guests to build their bowls and customize their meals to their liking.
No matter how you choose to serve it, the ground beef bulgogi is sure to be a hit. It has a great mix of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. Try different side dishes to find your favorite way to enjoy this delicious Korean-inspired dish.
Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Bulgogi
To make the best ground beef bulgogi, focus on a few important things. First, choose high-quality, lean ground beef. This ensures great taste and texture. Ground chuck or sirloin are top picks for their rich flavor.
Choosing the Right Meat
Look for ground beef with 15-20% fat. This keeps the meat juicy and tender. Avoid very lean beef, as it can dry out.
Marinating Time Tips
Marinate the beef for at least 15 minutes for the best flavor. But marinating overnight makes it even better. Just remember to keep it in the fridge.
Also, drain any vegetables like broccoli well before adding them. This prevents too much moisture and lets the beef’s flavors stand out.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 2.2 lb (1kg) |
| Marinating Time | at least 15 minutes or overnight |
| Meal Prep Duration | up to 3 days in the fridge or in the freezer for a few months |
| Servings | 1 serving |
| Calories per Serving | 335 kcal |
Follow these tips to make a delicious easy bulgogi recipe. The bulgogi meat marinade is crucial for a true Korean taste.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
This Korean ground beef recipe makes plenty of leftovers. The beef bulgogi can stay in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for months. Cool the beef completely before putting it in an airtight container.
Proper Storage Techniques
For the fridge, put the cooked beef bulgogi in a sealed container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. When freezing, split the marinated beef into portions. Store them in freezer-safe bags or containers.
Reheating Best Practices
To reheat the Korean ground beef leftovers, use a microwave-safe dish. Heat on 50% power for 1-2 minutes. You can also reheat it in a hot skillet or oven at 500°F for 2-3 minutes.
The beef bulgogi bowl is great for meal prep. Prepare the marinated beef ahead and store it with the rice and veggies separately. Reheat the beef and build your bowl when you’re ready.
Variations of Ground Beef Bulgogi
While the classic ground beef bulgogi recipe is a delightful staple, there’s no need to limit yourself. Explore the versatility of this Korean BBQ favorite by trying out these exciting variations.
Korean BBQ Style
For an authentic Korean BBQ experience, fire up your grill and cook the marinated ground beef over high heat. The charred edges and smoky aroma will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Seoul. Serve the Korean BBQ beef with steamed white rice, kimchi, and your choice of fresh vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Spicy Version
Amp up the heat by adding a spoonful of gochujang (Korean fermented chili paste) or a sprinkle of red chili flakes to the marinade. The fiery kick will complement the savory-sweet flavors of the spicy bulgogi recipe perfectly. Adjust the amount of gochujang or chili flakes to suit your preferred level of spiciness.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different proteins or vegetables as well. Ground chicken or turkey can make for a delicious alternative to beef while adding sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions can enhance the nutritional value and visual appeal of your dish.
With these variations, you can easily customize the Korean BBQ beef or spicy bulgogi recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Embrace the versatility of this vibrant Korean dish and enjoy the flavors of Seoul from the comfort of your own home.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
This easy Korean ground beef bulgogi recipe is a delightful dish. It brings the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine to your home. Every bite is a delightful explosion of taste.
Recap of My Favorite Aspects
I love how simple and easy this recipe is. The marinade comes together quickly. The cooking process is straightforward, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
You can also customize the recipe to your liking. Use ground turkey or chicken, or adjust the spice level. This makes it even more appealing.
Encouragement to Try the Recipe
If you want to try something new, give this recipe a shot. It’s a great way to enjoy Korean barbecue at home. I’m sure you and your family will love it.
So, what are you waiting for? Get your ingredients ready. It’s time to enjoy the deliciousness of this authentic Korean dish!
FAQ
What is bulgogi?
Bulgogi is a Korean dish made with thin beef slices. It has a tasty marinade with soy sauce, sugar, and mirin.
How is ground beef bulgogi different from traditional bulgogi?
Ground beef bulgogi uses ground beef instead of thin slices. It’s quicker and easier to make than the traditional version.
Why do you love this ground beef bulgogi recipe?
I love this recipe because it’s loved by many. It’s easy to make and full of Korean flavors. It’s ready in 20 minutes, perfect for busy days.
What are the essential ingredients for ground beef bulgogi?
You need ground beef, soy sauce, sugar, mirin, and oyster sauce. Also, garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper are key.
What are some optional ingredients for customization?
You can add mushrooms, onions, green onions, chili peppers, and broccoli to make it your own.
How do I make the marinade for the ground beef?
Mix soy sauce, sugar, mirin, oyster sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper in a container. Then, add the ground beef and mushrooms.
How long should I marinate the beef?
Marinate for at least 15 minutes. Overnight is even better for more flavor.
What’s the best way to cook the ground beef bulgogi?
Cook it on the stovetop. Heat oil in a pan, sauté onions, then add the beef. Cook for 12 minutes until it’s caramelized.
How should I serve the ground beef bulgogi?
Serve it over steamed rice. Add broccoli or other veggies. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. You can also add kimchi or a fried egg.
How can I store and reheat leftovers?
Store it in the fridge for 3 days or freeze for months. Reheat in a microwave-safe container.
Are there any variations I can try?
Yes, try grilling it for a Korean BBQ taste. Or add spicy gochujang to the marinade. You can also use ground chicken or turkey.