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This tasty Korean beef bowl is a quick way to enjoy the rich, sweetsavory flavors of bulgogi without the fuss of slicing meat. Ground beef cooks up fast and pairs perfectly with a homemade bulgogi sauce, making this bowl a satisfying meal that comes together in under 25 minutes. Adding a softboiled egg on top transforms each bite into a mix of silky, savory goodness.
I first made this dish when I craved something comforting but quick. Since then it’s become a family favorite with everyone loving the balance of sweet and salty, especially when breaking into that runny yolk.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: one pound room temperature lean beef cooks evenly and develops a nice browned crust
- Soy sauce: the salty base for the bulgogi sauce pick a good quality soy sauce for the best taste
- Sugar: balances the saltiness adds a subtle caramel hint that is key in bulgogi flavor
- Sesame oil: adds a fragrant nuttiness use toasted sesame oil for a deeper flavor
- Minced garlic: brings pungency that melds beautifully with the sauce
- Scallions: thinly sliced fresh green topping adds brightness and texture
- Sesame seeds: lightly toasted for a warm nutty crunch sprinkle on top last for extra aroma
- Eggs: medium to large for softboiled eggs the slightly older they are the easier to peel
- Cooked rice: your choice white jasmine or shortgrain sticky rice works best as the base
Instructions
- Build Your Bowl:
- Put a bed of steaming hot rice in each bowl so it can soak up all the delicious juices well.
- Perfect Those Eggs:
- Bring water to a rolling boil gently lower eggs in and cook precisely six minutes for a soft set white and runny yolk. Immerse eggs immediately into ice water to stop cooking and make peeling easier.
- Add Flavor:
- Combine soy sauce sugar sesame oil and minced garlic in a bowl and stir until the sugar completely dissolves and the sauce is well blended.
- Cook Your Beef:
- Heat a skillet on mediumhigh add ground beef and break it apart as it browns evenly. Cook until fully browned with some crispy edges about eight to ten minutes.
- Stir Sauce In:
- Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with the beef. Lower the heat to medium and let it bubble gently for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly coating every bite.
- Plating:
- Scoop the beef over rice add scallions and toasted sesame seeds sprinkle liberally. Halve softboiled eggs and nestle them on the side letting their silky yolks mingle with the beef.
Sesame oil is my favorite part here because just a small drizzle changes the whole flavor profile with its toasty richness. I remember one evening rushing home hungry and making this bowl in a flash. The moment I took that first bite of the runny yolk mixed with the spicy-sweet beef I felt like I was at a Korean restaurant. It never fails to impress anyone I serve it to.
Storage Tips
Store cooked ground beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep rice and eggs separately to preserve texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to avoid drying out the meat. Make sure to add fresh scallions after reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey and chicken are perfect leaner swaps if you want a lighter option. Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version. Honey can substitute sugar if you like a slightly different sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this beef bowl with kimchi for an authentic Korean touch or add quick pickled cucumbers on the side for freshness. You can also toss some steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to round out the meal.
This quick bulgogi-style beef bowl is weeknight-friendly and full of flavor. Top with a softboiled egg for extra richness.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can the sauce be prepped earlier?
Yes, the sauce can be made up to a week ahead and refrigerated. Shake well before use for best flavor.
- → Tips for perfect soft-boiled eggs?
Boil eggs for exactly 6 minutes, then transfer to ice water to keep yolks runny and whites firm.
- → What side dishes complement this bowl?
Serve with steamed or pickled vegetables, kimchi, or plain white rice for a balanced meal.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives that work well with the flavorful sauce.
- → Is this dish spicy?
No, it's mild by default. Add gochugaru or sriracha if you prefer a spicy kick.