Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi

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When you want big flavor with minimal effort, this Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi hits the spot. Inspired by the sweet-savory magic of Korean BBQ, this simplified take swaps traditional thin-sliced ribeye for quick-cooking ground beef—without losing any of the punchy goodness. The result is a comforting bowl of caramelized beef, glossy with soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil, nestled over warm rice and often topped with a jammy soft-boiled egg.

This meal is a weeknight favorite for a reason. It comes together in less than 30 minutes and delivers a blend of bold flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re craving something cozy or introducing your household to Korean-inspired cuisine, this one-bowl wonder is a guaranteed hit.

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What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

A lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) works best for this dish. It holds its shape while browning and allows the sauce to shine without being too greasy. If you’re using fattier beef, be sure to drain excess grease before adding the sauce.

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Ingredients for the Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi

Ground Beef
This is the base of the dish and absorbs all the sauce beautifully.

Soy Sauce
Adds the essential salty umami flavor that forms the core of bulgogi.

Brown Sugar
Provides sweetness to balance the saltiness and helps caramelize the beef.

Garlic
Fresh minced garlic gives depth and punch.

Ginger
Optional, but adds warmth and slight spiciness.

Sesame Oil
A little goes a long way—this gives that nutty aroma and signature Korean richness.

Green Onions
Adds freshness and color at the end.

Sesame Seeds
For a little crunch and nutty pop.

Cooked White Rice
The ideal base to soak up all the juicy beef and sauce.

Soft-Boiled Eggs (optional)
Creamy yolks take this to next-level comfort food territory.

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How To Make the Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add your ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Add minced garlic and grated ginger (if using) directly to the browned beef. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Pour this mixture over the beef and stir to coat evenly. Let it simmer for another 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly and coat the meat.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and stir in chopped green onions. Serve the beef over freshly steamed white rice. Top with a soft-boiled egg and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.

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How to Serve and Store Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi

This dish is perfect over a bed of hot steamed rice, but you can also serve it with lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Add quick pickled cucumbers or kimchi on the side to elevate the flavors and contrast the richness.

To store, allow leftovers to cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors often deepen overnight, making this a tasty meal-prep winner.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey works great if you want a leaner version. Just be sure to season well since turkey is milder in flavor.

What kind of rice works best?

Short-grain white rice or jasmine rice are ideal, but feel free to use brown rice or cauliflower rice if preferred.

Is this dish spicy?

This version is not spicy. If you’d like some heat, add gochujang (Korean chili paste) or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can cook the beef in advance and refrigerate. Just reheat when ready to serve.

What vegetables pair well with it?

Steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, sautéed spinach, or sliced cucumbers make excellent additions.

Do I need to use sesame oil?

It adds authentic flavor, but if you’re out, you can substitute with a neutral oil and a pinch of toasted sesame seeds.

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Want More Ground Beef Ideas?

If you loved this quick and savory bulgogi, here are more ground beef recipes to spice up your weekly rotation:

• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta if you’re craving rich comfort food.
• Dirty Rice with Ground Beef for bold Cajun flavors in every bite.
• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce when you’re in the mood for cheesy, oven-baked goodness.
• Cheesy Beef Chimichangas for a crispy twist on Tex-Mex night.
• Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef for a next-level pasta dinner.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you spice it up with gochujang? Swap in turkey or tofu? Add any favorite toppings?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Don’t forget to tag me if you share your plate online!

👉 For more easy dinner inspiration, check out my daily recipe pins on Pinterest – Life with Jam.

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