Name: Korean BBQ Beef (Bulgogi-Style)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: PT-490721H40M55S
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 lb beef sirloin or ribeye, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1/2 Asian pear (or 1/2 apple), finely grated; 2 green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Craving something deeply savory with a hint of sweetness and irresistible caramelized edges? Korean BBQ Beef, known as Bulgogi, might just become your new favorite dinner fix. This dish blends thinly sliced beef in a soy-sesame marinade, delivering an explosion of umami with every bite. Whether wrapped in lettuce, piled over rice, or tucked into a taco, Bulgogi adapts beautifully to whatever you’re craving.

It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a treat but is easy enough to make on a weeknight. The balance of soy, sugar, garlic, and sesame in the marinade creates layers of flavor, while the quick high-heat cooking method gives you those crispy, sticky edges that make it unforgettable.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into your Bulgogi journey, make sure you have the right setup. First, a sharp chef’s knife is essential for slicing the beef ultra-thin—this helps the marinade penetrate quickly and ensures a fast, even cook.

You’ll also need a large mixing bowl for combining the marinade and beef. If you have time, a resealable plastic bag can work wonders for marinating evenly in the fridge. A cast-iron skillet or grill pan is ideal for cooking—the high heat helps you get those signature charred bits. And don’t forget a rice cooker or pot to prepare fluffy white rice as the base.

Tongs, a spoon for stirring, and a cutting board round out the list. With these tools in place, you’re ready to transform simple ingredients into something spectacular.

Ingredients for the Korean BBQ Beef (Bulgogi-Style)

Beef sirloin or ribeye: These cuts are tender and flavorful, perfect for quick high-heat cooking. Thinly slicing the beef ensures fast marination and caramelization.
Soy sauce: The backbone of the marinade, it provides depth, saltiness, and umami.
Brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps in creating those sticky, caramelized edges.
Sesame oil: A small amount infuses nutty warmth and richness.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds a bold, aromatic punch.
Ginger: Freshly grated ginger offers brightness and a subtle kick.
Green onions: Used both in the marinade and as garnish, they bring freshness and color.
Asian pear (or a sweet apple): Traditionally used to tenderize the beef naturally and add a gentle sweetness.
Black pepper: For a bit of warmth and balance.
Toasted sesame seeds: For a crunch and nutty finish.

How To Make the Korean BBQ Beef (Bulgogi-Style)

Step 1: Slice the Beef

Start with a semi-frozen steak for easier slicing. Cut against the grain into thin strips—about 1/8 inch thick. Thin cuts are key for that classic bulgogi texture.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, finely grated Asian pear, black pepper, and chopped green onions. Mix until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 3: Marinate the Beef

Add the sliced beef to the marinade. Toss well to ensure each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better for deeper flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding, spreading the pieces out in a single layer. Let them sizzle undisturbed for a minute or two to get caramelized edges, then stir until just cooked through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top the cooked bulgogi with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice or in lettuce wraps for a lighter take.

How to Serve and Store Korean BBQ Beef (Bulgogi-Style)

Korean BBQ Beef is best served hot and freshly seared. Pair it with a bed of steamed white rice or tuck it into crisp lettuce leaves with a spoonful of kimchi for a low-carb option. Add pickled veggies, a fried egg, or even gochujang for extra depth.

If you have leftovers, store the cooled bulgogi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a pan to maintain texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How thin should I slice the beef for bulgogi?

About 1/8 inch is ideal. The thinner the slices, the better they soak up the marinade and cook evenly.

Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes! While sirloin and ribeye are ideal, flank steak or even brisket can work if sliced thin and marinated well.

Do I need Asian pear?

Traditional recipes use it for tenderness and sweetness, but a ripe apple or even kiwi can be a substitute if Asian pear isn’t available.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not by default, but you can add a spoon of gochujang or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy version.

Can I grill this instead of pan-searing?

Absolutely. Bulgogi is fantastic on a grill. Use a grill basket or a grate to keep the pieces from falling through.

What goes well with bulgogi?

Rice, lettuce wraps, kimchi, cucumber salad, pickled radish, or a simple miso soup make great sides to round out the meal.

Want More Beef Dinner Ideas?

Looking to build out your beef recipe repertoire? If Korean BBQ Beef hit the spot, here are more hearty ideas to explore:

You might also love the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, a creamy, filling one-pot dinner that balances savory flavors with comforting pasta. Or dig into the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce, which brings bold garlic flavor to tender beef in a rich, cheesy base.

Craving a lighter meal? Try the One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Rice, where sweet, spicy, and smoky tones come together in a single pan. Or warm up with a bowl of Hearty One-Pot Beef Stew, packed with vegetables and slow-cooked richness.

For a twist, don’t miss the Beefy Cheesy Fries Burrito. It wraps your favorite comfort food flavors in one glorious bite.

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