This Ground Beef Bulgogi is a fun twist on a Korean classic! It’s packed with tasty flavors from soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners!
Every bite feels like a party, and you can serve it over rice or wrapped in lettuce. I love how quick it is to whip up—fifteen minutes, and dinner is done!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like to use 80/20 ground beef for a balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work well, too. Just keep in mind that they might need more seasoning.
Soy Sauce: Traditional soy sauce adds depth, but if you’re gluten-free, opt for tamari. Coconut aminos is another great alternative for a sweeter taste.
Brown Sugar: If you want to cut down on refined sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup instead. They work perfectly to balance the salty soy sauce.
Gochujang: If you’re not a fan of spice, feel free to leave this out. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes instead for a milder heat.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nice nuttiness. If it’s unavailable, you can substitute with any neutral oil, though you might miss out on that unique flavor.
How Do I Get the Ground Beef to Cook Evenly Without Drying Out?
Cooking ground beef can sometimes lead to it drying out if you’re not careful. Here’s how to make sure it stays juicy and flavorful:
- Don’t overcook the meat! Keep an eye on it while it cooks, aiming for 5-7 minutes until it’s browned.
- Stir gently to break it apart. Aggressive stirring can dry it out and make it tough.
- If you notice it drying out, adding a splash of water or extra soy sauce can help keep it moist.
- Allow the beef to marinate well before cooking; this enhances flavors and keeps it tender.
How to Make Ground Beef Bulgogi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For Ground Beef Bulgogi:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste) – optional for spice
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrot, shredded
- 1 cup lettuce leaves (butter or romaine)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds, for garnish
- Kimchi, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ground Beef Bulgogi takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the beef (1 hour is even better if you can wait!). Cooking will take around 5-7 minutes. So, you’re looking at about 45-60 minutes total before you dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinating the Beef:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and gochujang (if you want a spicy kick). Mix everything well so that the beef is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. If you have time, letting it sit for up to an hour will enhance the flavors even more!
2. Cooking the Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated ground beef to the skillet. Cook thoroughly, using a spatula to break it into smaller pieces. Keep stirring it until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Preparing the Vegetables:
While the beef is cooking, get your vegetables ready! Slice the cucumber thin, shred the carrots, and wash your lettuce leaves. This will add freshness and crunch to your bowls!
4. Assembling Your Bowls:
To create your delicious bowls, start by adding a nice scoop of cooked white rice at the bottom. Next, layer on the cooked ground beef bulgogi. Follow that with the cucumber slices, shredded carrots, and some lettuce leaves to add a crisp texture.
5. Final Touches:
Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onion on top for a tasty garnish. This will make your dish look even more appetizing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your Ground Beef Bulgogi bowls with a side of kimchi if you like. Enjoy every bite of this delicious, savory meal you’ve created!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground beef, you can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to amp up the heat, increase the amount of gochujang or add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes. You can also consider including sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving!
What Can I Use Instead of Gochujang?
If you don’t have gochujang, you can substitute it with another chili paste or sauce, like sambal oelek. Just keep in mind that it might be less sweet. Alternatively, you can use a mix of miso paste and a bit of cayenne pepper for a different flavor profile.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can microwave it or reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Enjoy within a couple of days for the best flavor!
