Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Name: Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 green onions, chopped; 4 cups cooked white rice; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cup sliced cucumber; Sesame seeds, for garnish; Extra green onions, for garnish

Highlighted under: Favorite World Food Favorites

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowls for a quick and flavorful meal during the week. The combination of savory, sweet, and a hint of spice in the bulgogi marinade transforms ground beef into something so delicious, it’s hard to believe it takes only a few minutes to prepare. I enjoy serving these bowls over fluffy rice, topped with fresh veggies and a drizzle of sesame oil, making them not only satisfying but also customizable. It’s a meal that brings my family together, and we look forward to it every time!

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:57:40.783Z

When I first tried making Korean bulgogi at home, I was amazed at how easy it was to whip up a marinade that truly captures the essence of this beloved dish. I quickly learned that using ground beef not only saves time but also allows the flavors to really penetrate the meat. A tip I've picked up is to let the ground beef sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes—this little step makes a huge difference in depth of flavor.

Another reason I love this recipe is its versatility. On busy nights, we can have these Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowls ready in less than half an hour. I like to serve them with a variety of toppings, such as sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds, allowing everyone to create their perfect bowl. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Deliciously bold flavors that make dinner exciting
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Customizable toppings to suit everyone's taste

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade in this recipe is fundamental for achieving that authentic bulgogi flavor. The combination of soy sauce and brown sugar creates a perfect balance of savory and sweet, while the gochujang adds a delightful kick. Allowing the ground beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes is crucial; this brief time allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, enhancing its overall taste. If you're in a hurry, I’ve found that even a quick 5-minute marinate can yield a decent flavor boost, though longer is always better.

Sesame oil contributes not only a rich flavor but also a depth of aroma that makes your kitchen feel warm and inviting. When shopping for gochujang, choose a quality brand for the best results. If you can’t find gochujang, sriracha can be used as a substitute, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly. Don't skip the garlic and ginger; they're essential for that signature depth and warmth in bulgogi.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Beef

When it comes to cooking the marinated beef, a large skillet is your best bet for even cooking. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat before adding the beef. This way, you achieve a nice sear on the meat, which enhances its flavor and texture. Stir frequently to break up any clumps, and cook until the beef is well-browned and no longer pink, about 8–10 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, as ground beef can dry out quickly if left unattended.

If you prefer a bit of a char, you can increase the heat during the last few minutes of cooking. Just watch closely, as ground beef can go from perfectly browned to burnt in a matter of seconds. Furthermore, for a deeper flavor, consider mixing in some finely chopped mushrooms or grated zucchini with the beef while it cooks. Not only does this add moisture, but it also boosts the nutritional content without altering the beloved bulgogi flavors.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowls

For the Bulogi

1 lb ground beef
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, chopped

For Serving

4 cups cooked white rice
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup sliced cucumber
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Extra green onions, for garnish

Feel free to add your favorite toppings!

How to Make Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, gochujang, and black pepper until fully combined.

Marinate the Beef

Add the ground beef to the marinade and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the rice and veggies.

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the marinated beef until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to break apart the beef.

Assemble the Bowls

In each bowl, place a scoop of rice, top with the cooked bulgogi beef, and add your choice of shredded carrots and cucumber. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowls!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when cooking the beef.

Serving Suggestions

These Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowls are incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. While shredded carrots and cucumber are delicious, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even kimchi for an extra zesty kick. Drizzling with sesame oil just before serving not only adds flavor but also a beautiful sheen to the dish, making it visually appealing. I often find that adding a fried egg on top elevates the bowls even further; the runny yolk mingles wonderfully with the beef and rice.

For a refreshing touch, you can even serve the bowls with a side of pickled vegetables. Simple pickles can be made by soaking sliced cucumbers or radishes in vinegar, sugar, and salt for a few minutes. This brightens the meal and adds contrast to the rich and savory flavors of bulgogi.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make these bowls ahead of time, you can store the marinated beef in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This actually deepens the flavor even further. Cooked bulgogi beef can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture if needed.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked bulgogi beef. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep well for about 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight, then reheat. Note that previously frozen beef may lose some texture, so use it in hearty dishes like fried rice or soups for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Thinly sliced chicken or pork can also work well with this marinade.

→ What if I don't have gochujang?

You can substitute it with a mix of red pepper flakes and a little bit of honey for sweetness.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, the beef can be marinated a few hours ahead of time or even overnight for deeper flavor.

→ What are some good toppings?

Try adding avocado slices, kimchi, or pickled radishes for a flavor boost!