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How to Make Ground Beef Bulgogi in 30 Minutes
Discover the ultimate ground beef bulgogi recipe! Quick, easy, and packed with savory Korean flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights in the USA.
Why you will love this recipe
Looking for rich, delicious tastes without dedicating a lot of time to cooking? Our ground beef bulgogi recipe is the perfect solution! This quick and easy take on a Korean classic brings the rich, umami-packed taste of traditional bulgogi to your dinner table using simple ingredients you likely already have. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to try something new, this recipe combines the satisfying heartiness of ground beef with a sweet and savory sauce that’s irresistibly good. Serve it over rice or noodles, and you’ve got a meal that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. Let’s make dinner exciting!
Food has a way of bringing people together, and our ground beef bulgogi recipe does just that. Inspired by the comforting, savory flavors of Korean cuisine, this dish reminds us of family dinners where sharing stories over bowls of steaming rice was the highlight of the day. We love how this recipe transforms simple ingredients like ground beef into a flavorful, satisfying meal that feels both exotic and familiar. Whether you’re introducing your family to new flavors or recreating a favorite takeout dish at home, this recipe is all about connection, warmth, and the joy of cooking for loved ones.
How to Make Authentic Ground Beef Bulgogi in 30 Minutes
Difficulty: EasyServings
4
servingsPrep time
15
minutesCooking time
10
minutesCalories
300
kcalIngredients
1 lb ground beef (85% lean recommended)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
1 teaspoon sesame seeds, for garnish
2 cups cooked white rice or noodles, for serving
Directions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
- Cook the ground beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease if needed.
- Add the sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked beef, stirring well to combine. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the beef to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over a bed of warm rice or noodles.
Notes
- Substitutions:
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Swap brown sugar for honey or coconut sugar for a different sweetness profile. - Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Heat it in a skillet or microwave until it's completely warmed.
- Variations: Add thinly sliced vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and crunch.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1 1/2 cups, including rice)
Calories: 300
Macronutrients:
Amount
%DV
Total Fat
12g
15%
Saturated Fat
4g
20%
Trans Fat
0g
–
Cholesterol
60mg
20%
Sodium
800mg
35%
Total Carbohydrate
24g
8%
Dietary Fiber
1g
4%
Sugars
8g
–
Protein
20g
40%
Key Vitamins and Minerals:
Amount
%DV
Iron
3.6mg
20%
Vitamin B12
2.4mcg
100%
Zinc
3.5mg
25%
Potassium
350mg
10%
Additional Notes
This ground beef bulgogi is a high-protein meal with essential vitamins like B12 and iron to boost energy and support overall health. The sesame oil adds healthy fats, while the soy sauce and ginger provide rich, savory flavors. Pair with vegetables or whole-grain rice for added nutrients and balance.
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.
Please note: The nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used.
FAQ
1. Is it possible to substitute a different kind of meat in this recipe?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat are great alternatives. Adjust cooking time slightly depending on the protein.
2. Is this dish spicy?
Not by default, but the red pepper flakes add a mild kick. You can choose to leave them out if you want a less intense taste.
3. What’s the best rice to serve with ground beef bulgogi?
Steamed white rice is traditional, but jasmine rice or brown rice also work beautifully. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice.
4. Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! Cook the beef and sauce, then store them separately in the fridge. Combine and reheat when ready to serve.
5. How do I ensure the beef stays juicy?
Use ground beef with at least 15% fat content and avoid overcooking. The sauce also helps lock in moisture and flavor.
6. What side dishes pair well with ground beef bulgogi?
Serve it with kimchi, steamed vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete and balanced Korean-inspired meal.
Conclusion
We hope you’re as excited to try this ground beef bulgogi recipe as we are to share it with you! It’s the perfect mix of quick, easy, and deliciousm ideal for any night of the week. If you loved this recipe, why not spread the joy? Share it with your friends and family on social media, and let them discover the magic of this Korean-inspired dish. Don’t forget to follow us on our social channels for even more mouthwatering recipes and cooking tips. Let’s keep the inspiration flowing and make every meal something to look forward to. Happy cooking!
