Looking for a dinner recipe that’s both mouthwatering and quick?

Ground Beef Bulgogi is here to save the day. This Korean-inspired dish is packed with bold flavors, tender ground beef, and a sweet-and-savory sauce that will have your family asking for seconds. What makes it even better? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you need something exciting for a casual dinner.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Unlike traditional bulgogi, which typically involves marinating thin slices of beef, ground beef cuts down the prep time while delivering the same juicy, flavorful results. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and customizable, so you can tweak it to suit your family’s taste preferences. Trust me, this is a dish that will quickly become a staple in your household.

What’s in a Name?

Ever wondered where the name “Bulgogi” comes from? Well, let’s dive into a little history. The word “Bulgogi” comes from Korean, where “bul” means fire and “gogi” translates to meat. So, essentially, it’s fire-grilled meat – and while this ground beef version isn’t grilled over an open flame, it captures the same smoky and garlicky essence of the original.

Here’s a fun fact: When I first introduced my kids to this dish, they devoured it without realizing it was anything “fancy.” Now, they begging me to make it every week! It’s a testament to the truth that good food is the ultimate way to bring people together. After all, as the old saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.”

So, curious about how to make this magic happen? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe

Simple and Quick

This recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and cooking time under 20 minutes, you can have a fresh, flavorful meal ready faster than ordering takeout.

Budget-Friendly

Ground beef is an affordable protein option that’s perfect for feeding a family. Plus, many of the ingredients, like soy sauce, garlic, and sugar, are probably already in your pantry.

Flavorful and Customizable Toppings

The sauce is the star of this dish – a rich blend of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil that gives the ground beef a sticky, savory glaze. You can serve it over rice with your favorite toppings like green onions, kimchi, or a fried egg for added texture and flavor.

If you’re a fan of Korean flavors, you’ll also love Korean Ground Beef Tacos, another fun twist on traditional recipes.

How to Make Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe

Quick Overview

This recipe is an easy, stir-fry-style version of Korean Beef Bulgogi. It’s made with ground beef and a quick, sweet-and-savory sauce that’s ready in just a few minutes. The dish is perfect for serving over a bed of rice or noodles.

Key Ingredients for Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground beef (85% lean)	2 lbs
Soy sauce	1/2 cup
Sugar	2 tbsp
Garlic, minced	2 tbsp
Green onions, finely chopped	1/4 cup
Sesame oil	2 tbsp
Black pepper	1/2 tsp
Red pepper flakes (optional)	1/4 tsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves. This sweet-and-savoury marinade gives the beef its signature flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Sauté the beef for 2-3 minutes until it starts to brown.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the ground beef and stir to coat the meat evenly. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the beef is fully cooked.

Step 4: Add Aromatics

Add the green onions and sesame oil to the pan. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the green onions are slightly wilted and fragrant.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer the beef to a serving dish or serve it over a bed of white rice. Sprinkle with extra green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

What to Serve with Ground Beef Bulgogi

One of the best things about this dish is that it pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
• Kimchi: Spicy fermented Korean cabbage adds a tangy contrast to the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Quick-roasted zucchini or bok choy complement the savory beef.
• Noodles: Try serving it over stir-fried noodles for a fun twist.
• Soft-Boiled Egg: Add extra protein and richness with a soft-boiled egg.

Top Tips for Perfecting Ground Beef Bulgogi

1. Use the Right Cut of Beef: Opt for 85% lean ground beef for the best flavor and texture.
2. Don’t Overcook: Cook the beef until it’s just done. Overcooking can make it dry.
3. Adjust the Heat: If you like spicy, add more red pepper flakes. If not, omit them entirely.
4. Add Texture with Toppings: Toppings like crispy garlic, green onions, or toasted sesame seeds add visual appeal and texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
• Freeze: For longer storage, portion the leftover beef into airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition Values (Estimate per serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 25g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 400mg

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Bulgogi recipe is a flavorful, family-friendly dish that’s ready in no time. Its rich sauce, tender beef, and versatility make it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch it become your new go-to recipe! I’d love to hear your ideas On:

• Pinterest
• Facebook