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Plate of Easy Korean Beef Bulgogi grilled in sweet soy sauce with rice and side dishes.

Easy Korean Beef Bulgogi - Sweet Soy Grilled

A flavorful, quick, and easy recipe for Korean Beef Bulgogi perfect for weeknight meals or casual get-togethers. Marinated beef grilled or cooked in a skillet for big flavor with minimal fuss.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 cup soy sauce Use low-sodium if preferred.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar or honey Adjust sweetness to taste.
  • 4 cloves minced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 medium grated pear or apple Optional but recommended for tenderness and sweetness.
For the Beef
  • 1 pound thinly sliced beef (ribeye or sirloin) Freeze for 20 minutes to make slicing easier.
For Serving
  • 2 cups cooked rice To serve as a base.
  • 1 cup sliced cucumbers For topping.
  • 1 cup quick pickled carrots Optional.
  • 2 pieces green onions Chopped for garnish.
  • to taste gochujang Serve on the side for heat.

Method
 

Marinate the Beef
  1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, minced garlic, sesame oil, black pepper, and grated pear or apple to create the marinade.
  2. Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, up to overnight in the fridge.
Cook the Beef
  1. Heat a cast iron pan or large skillet over high heat until very hot.
  2. Add the marinated beef in small batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
Serve
  1. Serve the cooked bulgogi over bowls of rice, topped with sliced cucumbers, quick pickled carrots, and garnished with green onions.
  2. Offer gochujang on the side for those who enjoy some heat.

Notes

If using a grill, ensure the grill is hot and do not pile the beef on at once. Use leftovers in fried rice or noodles for a quick meal.