Introduction
Bulgogi, a beloved Korean dish known for its tender, marinated beef and savory-sweet flavors, is now easier than ever to make with this sheet pan version. Traditionally, bulgogi is grilled or stir-fried, but this easy sheet pan recipe allows you to enjoy all the delicious flavors of bulgogi with minimal effort and clean-up. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something flavorful but quick, this dish combines tender beef, aromatic seasonings, and a touch of sweetness in a one-pan meal. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Korean cuisine or trying bulgogi for the first time, this recipe is a simple, accessible way to enjoy a family favorite.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste) or sriracha (for a milder kick)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar (or honey), minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, gochujang (or sriracha), and black pepper. This will be your marinade.
Marinate the Beef:
Add the thinly sliced beef to the bowl with the marinade, tossing to coat all the pieces evenly. Cover and let the beef marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to absorb the flavors.
Prepare the Sheet Pan:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a sheet pan with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
Arrange the Beef on the Sheet Pan:
After marinating, transfer the beef to the prepared sheet pan, spreading it out evenly in a single layer. Try to arrange the slices so they’re not overcrowded, ensuring even cooking.
Bake the Beef:
Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and slightly caramelized. Halfway through the cooking time, you can stir or flip the beef to ensure it cooks evenly.
Garnish and Serve:
Once the beef is cooked, remove the sheet pan from the oven and sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top. Serve immediately with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables.
Tips for Serving and Storing
Serving Suggestions:
This sheet pan beef bulgogi pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. You can also serve it with a side of kimchi, sautéed vegetables, or a simple Korean-inspired salad for a well-rounded meal.
Storage:
Leftover beef bulgogi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may actually deepen and improve after a day or two. To reheat, simply warm the beef in a skillet over low heat until heated through, or microwave it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Freezing:
If you have leftovers or want to make a batch ahead of time, beef bulgogi can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet or oven.
Variants
Chicken Bulgogi:
Swap the beef for boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for a leaner option. Chicken bulgogi can be just as flavorful and tender when marinated properly, and it’s a great alternative for those who prefer poultry.
Vegetarian Bulgogi:
For a plant-based version, try using thinly sliced portobello mushrooms or tofu. Marinate the mushrooms or tofu in the same marinade and bake until tender. This is a perfect option for vegetarians or anyone looking to reduce meat consumption.
Spicy Bulgogi:
If you like more heat, increase the amount of gochujang (Korean chili paste) or sriracha in the marinade to make the dish spicier. You can also add sliced fresh chilies to the sheet pan before baking for an extra kick.
Bulgogi Bowls:
For a complete meal, serve the cooked beef bulgogi in a bowl with your choice of rice, sautéed vegetables, or even a fried egg on top. This creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
FAQ
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