Ground Beef Bulgogi is a tasty dish that features juicy beef marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, making every bite delicious. It’s quick to whip up, perfect for busy nights!
This dish is a big hit in my house! I love serving it with rice and some veggies. It’s such a simple way to enjoy a meal that feels special without all the fuss! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken work well too, although the flavor will be slightly different.
Soy Sauce: I like using low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness. If you’re gluten-free, tamari is a great substitute that keeps the flavor intact.
Brown Sugar: If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, regular granulated sugar can be used, but consider adding a touch of molasses for that rich flavor brown sugar brings.
Gochujang: This is essential for flavor, but if it’s hard to find, you can use sriracha for spice, though it won’t have the same depth. Just use less, since sriracha can be spicier.
Vegetables: Carrots and cucumbers are refreshing, but feel free to swap in other veggies like bell peppers or shredded cabbage depending on what you enjoy!
How Can I Achieve Best Results with the Marinade?
Marinating the ground beef is key to infusing flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, gochujang, and black pepper in a bowl until well combined.
- Add the ground beef and mix gently but thoroughly to coat every piece. This helps to pick up all the delicious flavors.
- For best results, let the beef marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours is ideal for deeper flavor.
This marinating time will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, making your bulgogi truly shine! Enjoy the process and don’t rush it.
How to Make Ground Beef Bulgogi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bulgogi:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
For Serving:
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- Lettuce leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ground Beef Bulgogi takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 5-7 minutes to cook. For the best flavor, let the beef marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge). All in all, you’re looking at about 45 minutes to savor this tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, gochujang, and black pepper. Mix everything well until the sugar is dissolved and you have a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to mix it thoroughly, making sure the beef is fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, putting it in the fridge for up to 2 hours will deepen the flavors even more.
3. Cook the Bulgogi:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Assemble Your Meal:
To serve, take a portion of cooked rice and place it in a bowl. Top it with the delicious cooked bulgogi, followed by shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, and chopped green onions.
5. Garnish and Enjoy!
Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and serve the bulgogi with some fresh lettuce leaves for wrapping. If you like a bit of heat, add a drizzle of additional gochujang on top. Enjoy your tasty Ground Beef Bulgogi!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground beef for its rich flavor, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly, as leaner meats may cook faster than beef.
What If I Don’t Have Gochujang?
If you can’t find gochujang, you can substitute it with a mix of chili paste or sriracha blended with a bit of miso paste and honey or brown sugar to mimic its flavor. Start with 1 tablespoon of the substitute and adjust to your taste!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. When reheating, make sure to do so gently on the stovetop or in a microwave to retain the beef’s moisture and flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! To make a vegetarian or vegan version, you can use plant-based ground meat alternatives, such as lentils or tofu. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to match the flavors since plant-based options can be milder than beef.
