Name: Korean Beef Bulgogi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 lb thinly sliced beef ribeye (or sirloin); ¼ cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp sesame oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 small onion, thinly sliced; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 small pear or apple, grated (optional, for tenderizing)

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Short description

Korean Beef Bulgogi is a classic Korean dish made with thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet-savory sauce of soy sauce, garlic, sesame, and a touch of sugar. Grilled or pan-cooked until caramelized, this dish is tender, flavorful, and irresistible—perfect served over rice, wrapped in lettuce, or alongside kimchi.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors in a dish that cooks in minutes. The marinade tenderizes the beef beautifully, while quick cooking locks in flavor. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. Plus, you can customize it with vegetables or different proteins to fit your taste.

Korean Beef Bulgogi

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb thinly sliced beef ribeye (or sirloin)
¼ cup soy sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp honey
2 tbsp sesame oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 green onions, chopped
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sesame seeds
½ tsp black pepper
1 small pear or apple, grated (optional, for tenderizing)

Directions

Thinly slice the beef against the grain (freeze slightly beforehand for easier slicing if needed).
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, green onions, and pear/apple if using.
Add the beef to the marinade, coating well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for best flavor.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the beef in a single layer until browned and caramelized, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions. Serve hot with rice, lettuce wraps, or traditional Korean side dishes.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes to overnight for marinating)
Cook time: 10 minutes

Variations

Spicy bulgogi: Add gochujang (Korean chili paste) or red pepper flakes for heat.
Chicken bulgogi: Substitute beef with thinly sliced chicken thighs.
Vegetarian version: Use tofu or mushrooms marinated the same way.
BBQ style: Cook the bulgogi on an outdoor grill for a smoky, authentic flavor.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Freeze uncooked marinated beef in a freezer bag for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.

FAQs

What is bulgogi?

Bulgogi is a traditional Korean dish made of thinly sliced, marinated beef cooked quickly over high heat.

What cut of beef is best for bulgogi?

Ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin works best because they are tender and flavorful.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, chicken thighs shoulder are great substitutes.

Do I need to use Asian pear in the marinade?

No, but it helps tenderize the meat and adds natural sweetness. Apple can also be used as a substitute.

How long should I marinate the beef?

At least 30 minutes, but overnight gives the best flavor.

Can I cook bulgogi without a grill?

Yes, a hot skillet or grill pan works perfectly.

Is bulgogi spicy?

Traditional bulgogi is not spicy, but you can add chili paste (gochujang) if you like heat.

What do you serve with bulgogi?

It’s commonly served with steamed rice, lettuce wraps, kimchi, and Korean banchan (side dishes).

Can I freeze bulgogi?

Yes—freeze the marinated raw beef for up to 2 months. Cook from thawed for best results.

How do I get that restaurant-style caramelization?

Cook the beef in small batches over high heat to allow browning without steaming.

Conclusion

Korean Beef Bulgogi is a timeless dish that captures the essence of Korean home cooking—tender, flavorful, and endlessly versatile. Whether enjoyed with rice, tucked into lettuce wraps, or served with a spread of side dishes, this recipe delivers an unforgettable combination of sweet-savory flavor in every bite.