There’s something inherently satisfying about recreating beloved traditional dishes with a modern twist. Easy Sheet Pan Beef Bulgogi is one such recipe that manages to combine the rich, savory flavors of Korean cuisine with the convenience and simplicity of a sheet pan meal. This dish takes me back to the bustling streets of Seoul, where the aroma of sizzling bulgogi wafts through the air from food stalls and restaurants alike. It’s a memory filled with warmth, comfort, and the joy of sharing good food with friends and family. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Bulgogi, which translates to “fire meat,” is traditionally grilled marinated beef. The marinade is a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and umami flavors that perfectly complement the tender beef. In this recipe, we’re using a sheet pan to simplify the cooking process without compromising on taste. The result is a dish that’s both flavorful and incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds ribeye steak, thinly sliced
Ribeye steak is chosen for its tenderness and rich marbling, which adds depth of flavor. Thin slicing is crucial for quick cooking and ensuring the marinade penetrates the meat.
1/4 cup soy sauce
Soy sauce serves as the salty, umami base of the marinade, infusing the beef with a savory depth that’s essential to bulgogi.
2 tablespoons brown sugar
Brown sugar adds sweetness to balance the saltiness of the soy sauce and aids in caramelizing the beef as it cooks.
3 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic brings a pungent, aromatic quality to the marinade, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
1 inch piece of ginger, grated
Fresh ginger adds a slight spiciness and warmth, balancing the sweetness and providing a subtle zing.
2 tablespoons sesame oil
Sesame oil contributes a nutty, toasty flavor that’s characteristic of many Korean dishes.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Rice vinegar adds a touch of acidity to the marinade, brightening the flavors and helping to tenderize the meat.
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Black pepper adds a mild heat and rounds out the flavors in the marinade.
1 medium onion, sliced
Onion provides sweetness and a bit of crunch, cooking down to become tender and caramelized.
2 green onions, chopped
Green onions add a fresh, slightly pungent flavor and a pop of color as a final garnish.
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Sesame seeds add a subtle crunch and nutty flavor, complementing the sesame oil in the marinade.
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Red pepper flakes add a hint of heat for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their bulgogi.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to simplify cleanup.
Lining the sheet pan ensures easy cleanup and prevents the beef from sticking.
In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Add red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Mixing the marinade first ensures all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed when you add the beef.
Toss the ribeye slices in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let marinate for about 15 minutes—use this time to prep your onion.
Marinating allows the flavors to penetrate the beef. Even a short marination of 15 minutes can make a significant difference, but longer marination can enhance the flavor.
Arrange the marinated beef in a single layer on your prepared sheet pan. Avoid crowding for even cooking. Scatter the sliced onions over the beef.
Spreading the beef out in a single layer ensures it cooks evenly and caramelizes nicely. The onions will cook down and add sweetness.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the beef is caramelized and sizzling.
Baking at a high temperature allows the beef to caramelize, developing a rich, deep flavor.
Finish by sprinkling chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the cooked beef for fresh flavor and a crunchy texture.
The green onions add freshness and the sesame seeds provide a pleasant crunch and additional nutty flavor.
Variations & Tips
Substitute ribeye with flank steak or thinly sliced sirloin if preferred. Thin slices are crucial for that tender bite.
Different cuts of beef can be used depending on your preference and what you have on hand. Just ensure they are thinly sliced for best results.
Add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the sheet pan for a more robust dish.
Adding vegetables not only makes the dish more colorful but also adds nutritional value and different textures.
If pressed for time, a shorter marinade of even 5 minutes can still impart great flavor, but if possible, marinate up to an hour for deeper taste.
Longer marination times allow the flavors to penetrate the meat more thoroughly, enhancing the overall taste.
Enjoy any leftovers as a filling for tacos or a hearty salad topping—they’re just as delicious the next day.
The versatility of this dish means it can be repurposed easily, making it a great option for meal prep.
Why This Recipe is Appealing
This Easy Sheet Pan Beef Bulgogi captures the essence of traditional Korean flavors while offering the convenience of a sheet pan meal. The savory, sweet, and slightly spicy marinade brings out the best in the tender ribeye slices, while the high-temperature baking process ensures a beautifully caramelized finish. The addition of fresh green onions and sesame seeds at the end adds a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different cuts of beef or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own. The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, and the quick cooking time is perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, the leftovers are just as enjoyable, allowing you to stretch this meal even further.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Korean cuisine or trying bulgogi for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. It’s a delightful blend of tradition and convenience, offering a taste of Korea with the ease of modern cooking. Enjoy the journey and the rich, satisfying flavors of this Easy Sheet Pan Beef Bulgogi.
