If you’re craving a delicious, easy-to-make Korean beef bulgogi but don’t want to deal with slicing expensive cuts of meat, this ground beef bulgogi recipe is your answer! This dish is packed with the sweet, savory, and umami flavors of authentic Korean bulgogi but made with ground beef for a quicker, budget-friendly alternative.
Whether you’re whipping up a quick Korean dinner on a busy weeknight or prepping meals for the week, this recipe comes together in just 20 minutes. Serve it as a bulgogi rice bowl, in lettuce wraps, or with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option—the possibilities are endless!
What Makes This Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe Special?
Why should you try this homemade bulgogi recipe? Here’s why it’s a game-changer:
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
✔️ Budget-Friendly – Uses ground beef instead of pricier cuts of steak.
✔️ Versatile – Serve it as a bulgogi rice bowl, in lettuce wraps, or even in tacos.
✔️ Meal-Prep Friendly – Stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for bulgogi meal prep.
✔️ Customizable – Make it spicy with gochujang, low-carb by skipping the rice, or gluten-free with tamari.
If you’re looking for a healthy ground beef recipe that’s bursting with Asian flavors, you’re in the right place!
Ingredients for the Best Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
This easy bulgogi recipe comes together with simple pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean for the best texture)
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free bulgogi)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp mirin (or rice vinegar for a tangy twist)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (or honey for a natural sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy bulgogi variation)
Toppings & Garnishes:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 soft-boiled egg (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Kimchi, for extra tang and spice
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations:
- Keto-friendly bulgogi – Swap brown sugar for erythritol or monk fruit.
- Soy-free version – Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos.
- Spicier bulgogi – Stir in gochujang (Korean chili paste) or extra red pepper flakes.
- Vegan option – Use crumbled tofu, Beyond Meat, or lentils instead of beef.
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions of Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
This Korean-style beef stir-fry is super simple to make. Follow these steps:
1. Make the Bulgogi Sauce
First, mix up your bulgogi marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together:
✔️ Soy sauce
✔️ Brown sugar
✔️ Sesame oil
✔️ Mirin
✔️ Garlic
✔️ Ginger
✔️ Black pepper
Set the sauce aside while you cook the beef.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Stir in chopped onion and cook until the beef is browned.
- Pour in the bulgogi sauce, stirring well. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the beef to absorb the flavors.
3. Final Touches
- Stir in green onions and sesame seeds.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Now, let’s talk about the best ways to enjoy this flavorful dish!
How to Serve Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
This bulgogi ground beef bowl is super versatile. Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy it:
✔️ Over Rice – The classic way! Serve over a steaming bowl of jasmine rice and top with a soft-boiled egg.
✔️ Lettuce Wraps – A fresh, low-carb bulgogi option. Wrap in butter lettuce or romaine.
✔️ Bulgogi Tacos – Try a fusion twist with corn tortillas, kimchi slaw, and sriracha mayo.
✔️ With Cauliflower Rice – A keto-friendly bulgogi option that’s just as satisfying.
✔️ Meal Prep Containers – Divide into portions for easy weekday lunches.
Want a little extra crunch? Sprinkle some crushed roasted seaweed on top!
How to Store & Reheat Bulgogi Leftovers
One of the best things about this Asian ground beef recipe is that it stores and reheats beautifully!
Refrigeration:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
- Let the bulgogi meat cool completely, then freeze it in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tips:
✔️ Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
✔️ Stovetop: Warm in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water.
Now, let’s look at a few ways to adjust this recipe for different diets!
Nutritional & Dietary Variations : Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
| Variation | Adjustments |
|---|---|
| Keto Bulgogi | Use low-carb sweetener and serve with cauliflower rice. |
| Gluten-Free | Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos or tamari. |
| Low-Sodium | Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added salt. |
| Vegan Option | Swap beef for crumbled tofu or Beyond Meat. |
Creative Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Bulgogi
You don’t have to stick to the classic bulgogi rice bowl—there are so many ways to enjoy this dish! Here are some fun and creative ways to make this meal your own:
1. Traditional Bulgogi Rice Bowl
Of course, the most popular way to serve bulgogi ground beef is over a bowl of steaming white rice. You can also swap it for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice if you prefer a healthier option. Don’t forget to add a soft-boiled egg, extra sesame seeds, and a sprinkle of green onions for that perfect finishing touch.
2. Bulgogi Lettuce Wraps
If you’re in the mood for something light and fresh, lettuce wraps are a great choice. Grab some butter lettuce or romaine leaves, scoop in your bulgogi, and top it with kimchi, shredded carrots, and sriracha for an extra kick. It’s a low-carb and gluten-free way to enjoy this dish!
3. Bulgogi Tacos
Yes, you read that right! This Asian ground beef recipe works surprisingly well in tacos. Simply load warm corn tortillas with bulgogi, top them with kimchi slaw, chopped cilantro, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo, and enjoy! This is a fun way to turn your bulgogi into a fusion dish that everyone will love.
4. Bulgogi Fried Rice
Want to use up leftovers? Stir-fry your bulgogi with day-old rice, a splash of soy sauce, and a beaten egg for a super flavorful bulgogi fried rice. This makes for a quick and delicious one-pan meal.
5. Bulgogi Noodle Bowl
For all the noodle lovers out there, try serving your bulgogi over a bowl of ramen, udon, or glass noodles. Add a soft-boiled egg, shredded nori, and extra sesame oil to make it even more flavorful.
How to Store & Reheat Bulgogi Leftovers
One of the best things about this ground beef bulgogi recipe is that it stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
Refrigeration Tips
- Store your cooked bulgogi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Keep toppings like green onions and sesame seeds separate to maintain their freshness.
Freezing for Meal Prep
- Let your bulgogi cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
How to Reheat Bulgogi
✔️ Microwave – Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
✔️ Stovetop – Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
✔️ Oven – Warm in a covered baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutritional & Dietary Adjustments of Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
Want to make this ground beef bulgogi recipe healthier or fit your dietary needs? Here are some simple swaps you can make:
| Dietary Needs | Adjustments |
|---|---|
| Keto Bulgogi | Replace brown sugar with a low-carb sweetener and serve with cauliflower rice. |
| Gluten-Free | Swap soy sauce for coconut aminos or tamari. |
| Low-Sodium | Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added salt. |
| Vegan Option | Substitute beef with crumbled tofu, Beyond Meat, or lentils. |
Common Questions About Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
Still have some questions? Let’s go over a few frequently asked questions to help you perfect this dish.
1. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep because it stores well and reheats easily. In fact, the flavors develop even more when stored overnight.
2. How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you like your bulgogi less sweet, simply reduce the brown sugar or use honey instead. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a bit more brown sugar or even a splash of pineapple juice.
3. What Can I Use Instead of Mirin?
If you don’t have mirin, don’t worry! You can substitute it with rice vinegar + a pinch of sugar for a similar tangy-sweet effect.
4. Can I Make This Spicy?
Definitely! To spice up your bulgogi, add:
🔥 Gochujang (Korean chili paste) for deep heat and flavor.
🔥 Red pepper flakes for a mild kick.
🔥 Fresh chopped chilies if you like extra spice.
More Delicious Recipes to Try
Want to try more easy, flavorful beef recipes? Check these out:
👉 Try this hearty Beef and Spinach Lasagna for another comforting beef-based dish!
👉 If you love beef dishes, this Curried Beef and Potatoes is a must-try!
👉 Pair your bulgogi with a flavorful side like this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole!
👉 Looking for more quick and easy beef recipes? Check out these Beef and Cheese Mini Tacos!
👉 For a fusion twist, try these Beef Garlic Noodles – a perfect Asian-inspired comfort food!
Final Thoughts: Why This Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe is a Must-Try
This ground beef bulgogi recipe is everything you need for a quick, easy, and flavorful meal. Whether you serve it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or even as a taco filling, it’s an irresistible dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
✔️ It’s simple to make but packed with bold, authentic flavors.
✔️ It’s flexible—you can tweak it to fit any diet or preference.
✔️ It’s a crowd-pleaser—everyone from kids to adults will love it!
Now, it’s your turn to give it a try! What’s your favorite way to serve bulgogi? Let me know in the comments below! 😊