Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Name: Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon chopped green onions; Cooked white or brown rice; Sliced cucumbers; Shredded carrots; Chopped green onions; Sesame seeds

Highlighted under: Flavors of the World

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowls at home because they're not only delicious but also surprisingly simple. The combination of savory beef with sweet and tangy marinade brings bold flavors that are hard to resist. I usually serve them with a side of steamed rice and fresh vegetables, which perfectly balance the richness of the beef. The satisfying crunch from the veggies adds a delightful contrast, making this dish ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-02-08T02:36:35.135Z

When I first experimented with Ground Beef Bulgogi, I was amazed at how quick and easy it was to prepare. The marinating process only requires a short time, but it works wonders in developing rich flavors. I always opt for a high-quality soy sauce and use brown sugar to enhance the sweetness, which is key to an authentic bulgogi experience.

The trick I found most effective is to cook the beef over high heat to get a nice caramelization, giving it that lovely, slightly crispy texture that makes every bite exciting. Serving it in bowls with rice and toppings lets everyone customize their meal, making it perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory-sweet flavor profile that captivates your taste buds
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Customizable with fresh toppings for added flavor and crunch

Understanding Bulgogi Marinade

The marinade in this Ground Beef Bulgogi is a crucial element that defines the dish’s rich flavor. The soy sauce lends umami and saltiness, while brown sugar balances it with sweetness. I always opt for dark soy sauce for its depth. If you're watching sodium, low-sodium soy sauce can be a great substitute, though it might slightly alter the flavor profile. The addition of sesame oil imparts a nutty note, making the beef taste luxurious and aromatic.

Ginger and garlic are essential as they introduce freshness and warmth, cutting through the richness of the beef. If you're short on fresh ginger, a tiny pinch of ground ginger could work in a pinch. However, fresh ingredients will give you the most vibrant flavor. Allowing the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes helps the flavors penetrate throughout, though marinating longer (up to an hour) can intensify the taste even more.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Bulgogi

When cooking the beef, using a large skillet over high heat is vital. This ensures that the meat browns quickly and caramelizes nicely, enhancing its flavor. Aim for a sizzle as soon as you add the ground beef; this sound is your cue to stir frequently to prevent sticking. Cook the beef until it becomes deep brown and slightly crispy on the edges, which typically takes around 5-7 minutes. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan, as too much moisture can prevent that desirable browning.

If you find that the beef releases too much liquid while cooking, don’t hesitate to drain off some of the excess. This helps you achieve a beautifully caramelized texture. For a slightly more smoky flavor, consider finishing the cooked beef under the broiler for 1-2 minutes—just be sure to watch it carefully to avoid burning. Remember, the goal is a balance between juicy meat and rich flavors.

Ingredients

For the Bulgogi

1 lb ground beef
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped green onions

For Serving

Cooked white or brown rice
Sliced cucumbers
Shredded carrots
Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds

Instructions

Steps

Marinate the Beef

In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and green onions. Add the ground beef and mix well. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add the marinated ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir frequently until fully browned and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.

Serve

Spoon the cooked bulgogi over bowls of rice. Top with sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, chopped green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, you can add gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the beef marinade. It's essential to cook the beef over high heat to achieve that lovely caramelization, enhancing the flavor significantly.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowls, consider incorporating a variety of toppings that add both flavor and texture. Fresh sliced cucumbers and shredded carrots provide a delightful crunch, while chopped green onions offer freshness. For a spicy kick, thinly sliced radishes or even a drizzle of sriracha can complement the savory beef perfectly. I often sprinkle a generous amount of sesame seeds on top for added nuttiness and visual appeal.

If you want to serve these bowls as a complete meal, adding a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy can enhance your vegetable intake. This not only improves nutritional balance but also adds color to your plate, making it more visually appealing and inviting.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Ground Beef Bulgogi is ideal for meal prep; you can make a larger batch and store leftovers for easy meals later in the week. Once cooled, transfer the beef to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, a quick stir in a skillet over medium heat will help regain some of the original texture and warmth without overcooking the beef.

If you want to freeze it, do so in small portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Consider portioning it out into single servings, making it easy to thaw only what you need. The beef can be frozen for up to 2-3 months, and when you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken or turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version of this dish. Just adjust the cook time as needed.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep this bulgogi bowl gluten-free.

→ What vegetables do you recommend for toppings?

I recommend fresh cucumbers, shredded carrots, and thinly sliced bell peppers. You can also add kimchi for an extra kick!