Print

Easy Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowls

A close-up of a Korean Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowl featuring saucy ground beef over white rice, topped with green onions and shredded carrots.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Prepare a quick and flavorful Korean Bulgogi using ground beef. This recipe simplifies the traditional dish for a fast weeknight meal served over rice.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (85/15 recommended)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup water or beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 4 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup sliced green onions, for garnish
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, minced garlic, and black pepper. This is your marinade base.
  2. Add the ground beef to the sauce mixture and mix gently until combined. You do not need to marinate this mixture for a long time; 10 minutes is sufficient.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with the water or broth until smooth. Set aside.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  5. Add the ground beef mixture to the hot skillet. Break up the meat as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
  6. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the skillet with the beef. Stir constantly as the sauce thickens, about 1 minute. The sauce should coat the meat.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat.
  8. To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked rice among four bowls. Top the rice with the cooked ground beef bulgogi.
  9. Garnish each bowl with shredded carrots, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute 1 tablespoon of the soy sauce with oyster sauce.
  • You can substitute the carrots with steamed broccoli florets or sautéed mushrooms.
  • If you prefer a spicier flavor, add 1 teaspoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the sauce mixture.

Nutrition