Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi

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If you’re craving big flavor with minimal effort, Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi is your weeknight dinner hero. This Korean-inspired dish takes all the sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavors of traditional bulgogi and simplifies them into a quick, skillet-cooked meal that comes together in just 20 minutes.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Serve it over a steaming bowl of jasmine rice, tuck it into lettuce wraps for a low-carb version, or spoon it over noodles with a drizzle of gochujang. However you enjoy it, this ground beef bulgogi is guaranteed to become a staple in your rotation.

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What Kind of Ground Beef Works Best?

For this recipe, 85% lean ground beef strikes the perfect balance of flavor and texture. It offers enough fat to remain juicy without overwhelming the dish. If you’re using leaner beef, consider adding a teaspoon of sesame oil to keep everything luscious.

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Ingredients for the Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon gochujang or sriracha (optional for spice)
• Cooked white rice, for serving

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How To Make the Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi

Step 1: Sauté the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Create the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and rice vinegar. If you like heat, stir in gochujang or sriracha.

Step 3: Simmer and Blend

Pour the sauce over the browned beef. Reduce heat to medium and let everything simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally so the meat absorbs all the flavor.

Step 4: Finish and Garnish

Toss in the sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Stir well and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Spoon the bulgogi over warm rice and top with extra green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

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Serving and Storing Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi

This dish is best served hot over a bed of fluffy rice or tucked into lettuce leaves for a lighter option. You can also pair it with steamed veggies, kimchi, or even a soft-fried egg for extra richness.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does bulgogi mean?

“Bulgogi” translates to “fire meat” in Korean and traditionally refers to marinated slices of beef grilled over an open flame. This version simplifies that with ground beef.

Can I use ground turkey instead?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or even ground chicken can be substituted for a leaner twist. Just note that you’ll need a bit more oil to prevent drying out.

How spicy is this recipe?

The base version is mild. Spice lovers can add gochujang or sriracha to taste.

What sides go well with this?

Try pairing it with kimchi, pickled cucumbers, or a simple sesame-dressed slaw.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes! Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 2 months.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to make it fully gluten-free.

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Want More Ground Beef Ideas?

If this Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi hits the spot, you’ll want to check out these flavor-packed dishes too:

• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a rich weeknight option.
• Shipwreck Dinner — a nostalgic one-pan classic.
• Taco Spaghetti Casserole that brings Tex-Mex comfort to your table.
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for the ultimate indulgence.
• Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole that balances bold and cheesy perfectly.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s ready when that ground beef craving strikes.

Tried it out? Let me know how you served your bulgogi! Did you go spicy or keep it mild? Wrap it up in lettuce or pile it on noodles?

I love hearing how these easy dishes fit into your weeknights. Drop a comment or tag me on Pinterest @NinaDishes with your delicious takes!

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