Imagine tender, thinly sliced beef, marinated in a sweet and savory Korean-inspired sauce, caramelized to perfection, and layered onto a soft, toasted bun. This Bulgogi Beef Sandwich is packed with bold flavors, crunchy veggies, and a hint of spice, making it an absolute game-changer for lunch or dinner.
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If you love a good sandwich (and let’s be real—who doesn’t?), this one is next level. The rich umami from the beef, the freshness of crisp toppings, and the kick from a spicy mayo or gochujang sauce make every bite completely addictive.
Why You’ll Love Bulgogi Beef Sandwich
Bold Korean Flavors: The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami.
Quick & Easy: Despite the depth of flavor, it comes together in no time.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Marinate the beef ahead for a faster meal.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap toppings, or even use chicken instead of beef.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving friends and family, it’s always a hit!
Ingredients in Bulgogi Beef Sandwich
Here’s what makes this sandwich so incredible:
Ribeye or Sirloin Steak: The star of the show! Thinly sliced beef soaks up all the delicious marinade flavors.
Soy Sauce: Adds deep umami flavor.
Brown Sugar: Creates that signature bulgogi sweetness and caramelization.
Sesame Oil: Brings in nutty, aromatic richness.
Garlic & Ginger: Essential for that classic Korean flavor.
Pear or Apple Puree: A secret ingredient that tenderizes the beef and adds a subtle sweetness.
Gochujang or Sriracha Mayo: For a spicy, creamy kick.
Soft Hoagie Rolls or Brioche Buns: Perfect for holding all the juicy goodness.
Kimchi or Pickled Vegetables: Adds crunch and tangy contrast.
Fresh Greens (Lettuce or Cabbage): Lightens up the sandwich with a refreshing bite.
Toasted Sesame Seeds & Green Onions: For a final pop of flavor.
(Note: The full ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and pear puree. Toss in the thinly sliced beef, ensuring it’s well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Cook the Bulgogi: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Let it caramelize for that irresistible golden-brown crust.
Toast the Buns: Lightly butter and toast your buns for extra flavor and texture.
Assemble the Sandwich: Spread gochujang or sriracha mayo on the toasted buns. Layer with fresh greens, cooked bulgogi beef, and your choice of kimchi or pickled veggies.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve warm and enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Bulgogi Beef Sandwich
This sandwich is amazing on its own, but here are some fun ways to elevate it:
- Pair with a Side of Fries (sweet potato fries or crispy Korean-style fries are great choices).
- Add a Fried Egg on top for extra richness.
- Serve with a Side of Kimchi for more fermented goodness.
- Drizzle with Extra Spicy Mayo or Gochujang Sauce if you love heat.
Additional Tips
- Freeze Sliced Beef for Easier Cutting: If slicing at home, partially freeze the beef first for super-thin, even slices.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This helps the beef caramelize instead of steaming.
- Adjust Sweetness & Spice: Add more or less sugar and spice to match your taste.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Just skip the butter when toasting the buns.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use chicken instead of beef?
A1: Yes! Thinly sliced chicken thighs work great as a substitute.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A2: Store cooked bulgogi beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.
Q3: Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
A3: Definitely! You can prep the marinade up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge.
Q4: Can I freeze marinated beef?
A4: Yes! Freeze the beef in the marinade for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Q5: What type of bread works best?
A5: Soft hoagie rolls, brioche buns, or even baguettes all work well.
Q6: How do I make this sandwich extra spicy?
A6: Add more gochujang, sriracha, or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Q7: Can I add cheese to this sandwich?
A7: Sure! A slice of provolone or mozzarella adds a delicious melty contrast.
Q8: What can I use instead of pear puree?
A8: Apple puree, grated Asian pear, or even a splash of honey can work as a substitute.
Q9: How do I keep my sandwich from getting soggy?
A9: Toasting the buns and adding a thin layer of mayo or butter before the toppings helps prevent sogginess.
Q10: Can I serve this sandwich cold?
A10: While it’s best served warm, you can enjoy it cold like a Korean-style beef banh mi!
Final Thoughts
If you’re a sandwich lover (or just a fan of bold flavors), this Bulgogi Beef Sandwich is a must-try. The combination of tender, caramelized beef, crunchy toppings, and a little spicy kick makes it downright irresistible. Whether you make it for a quick weeknight meal or serve it at your next gathering, it’s bound to become a favorite. Enjoy!
Print
Bulgogi Beef Sandwich
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Bulgogi Beef Sandwich is a fusion of Korean flavors and American comfort food. Juicy ground beef is cooked with bulgogi sauce, sautéed onions, and melted mozzarella, then stuffed into a toasted bun with crisp lettuce. A simple, satisfying meal perfect for breakfast or a quick lunch!
Ingredients
- 4 hot dog buns
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup champignon mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 tbsp bulgogi sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/3 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup lettuce, sliced
- 2 tbsp oil
Instructions
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Prepare the buns:
- Slice the hot dog buns in the middle using a serrated bread knife.
- Spread butter inside and toast lightly in a pan. Set aside.
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Cook the filling:
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté onions, garlic, and green bell peppers until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, bulgogi sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir in mushrooms and cook until beef is browned.
- Add mozzarella cheese and mix until melted and well combined.
-
Assemble the sandwich:
- Add a layer of lettuce inside each toasted bun.
- Spoon the beef mixture over the lettuce.
-
Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg