How to Make Authentic Korean Beef Bulgogi at Home in 30 Minutes

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to Korea? I can hardly contain my excitement as I share with you my favorite Korean Beef Bulgogi recipe! This dish is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something special yet easy. If you’re like me and love easy pasta recipes for quick family dinners, you’ll find this Bulgogi Recipe a delightful addition to your repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make in just 30 minutes!
• Perfectly tender and flavorful thanks to the marinated ribeye steak.
• Great for weeknight dinner ideas that impress the family.
• Versatile—serve it with rice, lettuce wraps, or your favorite Korean sides.
• Healthy and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering Korean Beef dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1½ pounds boneless ribeye steak
• ½ small ripe pear (peeled and finely grated)
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
• 2 green onions (thinly sliced for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious Bulgogi:

1. Prepare the Steak for Slicing: Wrap the ribeye steak tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This firms up the meat, making it easier to slice into thin, even strips.
2. Slice the Steak Thinly: Remove the steak from the freezer and unwrap it. Using a sharp knife, slice the meat against the grain into ¼-inch thick slices. Cutting against the grain ensures tenderness.
3. Create the Marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the grated pear, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and gochujang. Whisk until well blended and smooth.
4. Marinate the Beef: Place the sliced beef into a gallon-sized resealable bag or a shallow container. Pour the marinade over the meat, seal tightly, and massage the bag gently to coat all the slices. Let the beef marinate in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours or ideally overnight, flipping the bag occasionally for even soaking.
5. Grill the Bulgogi: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a cast iron grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated beef slices in a single layer in the pan. Avoid overcrowding—cook in batches if needed. Sear each side for 2–3 minutes until lightly charred and fully cooked. Repeat with the remaining oil and meat.
6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the cooked beef to a serving platter. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a final touch of flavor and presentation. Serve hot with rice, lettuce wraps, or your favorite Korean sides.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Beef Bulgogi turns out perfectly:

• For the best flavor, marinate the beef overnight if you can. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes!
• Don’t skip the pear in the marinade; it adds a natural sweetness and helps tenderize the meat.
• If you can’t find gochujang, you can substitute it with a mix of chili paste and a bit of sugar, but I highly recommend using the authentic ingredient for the best taste.
• Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the grill for a complete meal.

How to Serve

When it comes to serving your Korean Beef Bulgogi, the options are endless! Here are a few ideas:

• Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice for a hearty meal.
• Wrap the beef in lettuce leaves for a fresh and crunchy bite.
• Pair it with traditional Korean sides like kimchi or pickled vegetables for a complete experience.
• For a fun twist, serve it with creamy garlic pasta for a fusion dish that your family will love!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re planning ahead, you can marinate the beef a day in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, and enjoy it again!

For those busy weeknights when you need quick family dinners, this Bulgogi Recipe is a lifesaver. And if you’re looking for more delicious beef recipes, check out my Korean Beef Bulgogi and Beef with Broccoli for more inspiration. You might also enjoy my Mongolian Beef recipe for another tasty twist!

Now, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your family with this delightful dish. Happy cooking!