Description

Quickly make flavorful Korean bulgogi at home with this easy ground beef recipe. Perfect for weeknight meals, it’s packed with sweet, savory, and umami flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons mirin (or dry sherry)
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Optional: 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes
Cooked rice, for serving
Optional garnishes: toasted sesame seeds, shredded carrots, cucumber slices

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, mirin, grated ginger, minced garlic, and black pepper. Add gochujang or red pepper flakes if using.
2. Add ground beef to the marinade and gently combine to coat.
3. Marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of neutral oil if needed.
5. Add marinated ground beef, breaking it up, and cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Add sliced yellow onion and cook until softened and translucent (about 3-5 minutes).
7. Stir in sliced green onions just before serving.
8. Serve hot over cooked rice with optional garnishes.

Notes

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For freezing, cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw before reheating.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 25g