Ground Beef Bulgogi is a simple and tasty dish that brings a bit of Korean flavor to your table. It’s made with ground beef marinated in soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sweetness!
This dish is perfect for busy nights! I love to pop it on rice or wrap it in lettuce for a fun dinner. It’s quick to make, and you’ll want to savor every bite! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The star ingredient of this dish offers a rich flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, try using mushrooms or lentils for a meaty texture.
Soy Sauce: This adds depth and umami. For a gluten-free version, use tamari. If you’re watching your sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce works just as well.
Brown Sugar: It balances the saltiness of the soy sauce. If you prefer, coconut sugar or honey can be great alternatives, though honey will change the flavor slightly.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste brings sweetness and spice. If it’s hard to find, you can substitute with sriracha, but use it sparingly since it’s usually spicier.
Vegetables: Feel free to mix and match your toppings! Bell peppers or radishes can also brighten the dish. I often add avocado slices for creaminess.
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Getting nicely browned ground beef is easy with these steps. First, start with a hot skillet; this helps lock moisture in. Break the meat apart with a spatula, so it cooks evenly. Don’t rush it; let it sit a bit to develop a nice crust.
- Add the beef to the skillet and leave it alone for a couple of minutes before stirring.
- Once it gets some color, keep breaking it apart while stirring occasionally.
- Drain excess fat to avoid a greasy dish before adding in your marinade.
This approach keeps the beef flavorful without being dry. Enjoy!
How to Make Ground Beef Bulgogi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Marinade:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 green onion, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- Lettuce leaves (such as romaine or bibb)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Kimchi (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ground Beef Bulgogi recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making the total time around 25 minutes. It’s a quick and flavorful meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, gochujang, and chopped green onion. Mix everything together until well combined. This will be your flavorful marinade for the beef!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks. This helps it cook evenly and makes it nice and crumbly.
3. Combine with Marinade:
Once the beef is cooked through, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet. Pour the marinade over the cooked beef and stir well to coat. Let it cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and soak into the meat.
4. Prepare the Vegetable Toppings:
While the beef is cooking, get your veggies ready! Slice the cucumber into thin rounds, shred the carrots, and wash the lettuce leaves to use for wrapping. All these fresh toppings add a great crunch!
5. Assemble Your Bulgogi Bowls:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Start by dividing the cooked rice into serving bowls. This will be the base of your meal.
6. Add the Beef and Veggies:
Spoon the cooked ground beef bulgogi mixture over the rice. Then, top it with the sliced cucumber and shredded carrots for a nice pop of color and texture.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle some extra chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for garnish. Serve with lettuce leaves on the side for wrapping and a portion of kimchi for an extra kick. Enjoy your delicious homemade Ground Beef Bulgogi!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for Bulgogi?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with other meats like ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly, so be sure to cook the meat until it’s fully browned and cooked through.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of gochujang or omit it entirely. For those who enjoy more heat, consider adding extra gochujang or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when cooking the beef.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the ground beef in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Just be sure to add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bulgogi marinade and cook the ground beef a day in advance. Just store the cooked beef in the fridge, and when you’re ready to serve, warm it up and assemble the bowls fresh with the toppings!
