Easy Korean BBQ Bulgogi Recipe for Beginners

Bulgogi (불고기) is one of Korea’s most iconic dishes—a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami. With just a few ingredients and basic steps, you can recreate this Korean BBQ favorite right in your own kitchen. This guide will walk you through a foolproof, flavorful bulgogi recipe that’s beginner-friendly and totally delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Bulgogi

• Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
• No grill needed—just a pan!
• Customizable for different diets
• Perfect over rice, in lettuce wraps, or on tacos

Ingredients

• 1 lb thinly sliced beef (ribeye, sirloin, or flank)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 grated Asian pear or Fuji apple
• 1/2 small onion, sliced
• 1 tsp ginger (optional)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Slice the beef thinly (freezing for 30 minutes helps).
2. Mix marinade: Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl.
3. Marinate beef for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Cook: Sear in a hot skillet for 3–5 minutes until browned.
5. Serve: Over rice, in lettuce wraps, or on noodles.

Serving Tips

• Pair with steamed rice and kimchi
• Wrap in lettuce with ssamjang
• Top with a fried egg for extra flavor

Storage & Reheating

Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to refresh the sauce.

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