If you’re looking for a quick yet delicious weeknight dinner that packs bold flavors and is simple to prepare, then this Easy Sheet Pan Beef Bulgogi is the perfect dish for you. Bulgogi, a classic Korean dish, is traditionally made by marinating thinly sliced beef in a savory-sweet sauce and grilling it. However, in this version, we make it even easier by roasting everything on a sheet pan in the oven, cutting down on prep time while still delivering that irresistible smoky-sweet flavor. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves Korean-inspired meals or simply wants to enjoy a hearty, healthy dinner with minimal effort.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy family, hosting friends for dinner, or just looking to treat yourself to something tasty, this Easy Sheet Pan Beef Bulgogi is a game-changer. It’s packed with flavor, loaded with tender beef, crispy vegetables, and aromatic garnishes, all cooked in one pan for an easy cleanup.
Ingredients for Easy Sheet Pan Beef Bulgogi
To make the Easy Sheet Pan Beef Bulgogi, you’ll need the following ingredients, each carefully selected to create a well-balanced, flavorful meal. The beef will absorb all the sweet, salty, and umami flavors of the marinade, while the vegetables will roast perfectly, adding a delicious contrast in texture.
For the Bulgogi Marinade:
- 1½ pounds beef sirloin or ribeye, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (optional, for heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 8 ounces sugar snap peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
Directions and Preparation Method
This recipe is divided into three simple steps: marinating the beef, preparing the baking sheet, and then cooking everything on the sheet pan. With a bit of prep work upfront, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the delicious results of this one-pan dinner.
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
The key to great Bulgogi is a flavorful marinade, and we’ve perfected the balance of savory, sweet, and a little spice in this version.
- Whisk together the marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, fish sauce, minced fresh ginger, sesame oil, chili paste (optional), and minced garlic. Continue whisking until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined. - Add the beef:
Once your marinade is ready, add the thinly sliced beef to the bowl. Make sure the beef is evenly coated with the marinade. If necessary, use your hands to ensure each slice is well covered. - Marinate the beef:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For even deeper flavor, let the beef marinate overnight. Marinating the beef allows the flavors to absorb and tenderizes the meat, making each bite melt in your mouth.
Step 2: Prepare for Baking
While the beef marinates, you can prepare the vegetables and get everything ready for the oven.
- Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high temperature will help char the beef and crisp the vegetables, creating a nice caramelized finish. - Prepare the baking sheet:
Lightly grease a large baking sheet with olive oil or line it with parchment paper. This will ensure that your beef and vegetables don’t stick to the pan and make cleanup much easier. - Prepare the vegetables:
Place the sliced onion and sugar snap peas on one side of the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Toss everything together to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with oil and seasoning.
Step 3: Arrange and Bake
- Arrange the beef and vegetables:
Shake off any excess marinade from the beef slices and arrange them in a single layer on the other side of the baking sheet, keeping them separate from the vegetables. This helps ensure the beef cooks evenly while the vegetables roast. - Bake:
Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and has nice charred edges. The vegetables should be tender-crisp. If you want your beef to be slightly more caramelized, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, while sirloin or ribeye are ideal for this recipe, you can substitute them with other cuts like flank steak or skirt steak, which are also great for quick cooking and absorbing marinades.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! The beef can be marinated overnight or for up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld. After marinating, simply follow the instructions to bake when ready to serve.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the beef with tofu, portobello mushrooms, or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Simply cut the tofu or mushrooms into slices or chunks, and marinate them in the same sauce.
Can I add other vegetables?
Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
How can I serve this dish?
You can serve this beef Bulgogi over steamed rice or in lettuce wraps for a lighter, low-carb alternative. Garnish with the sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an added burst of flavor.
Conclusion
This Easy Sheet Pan Beef Bulgogi is the perfect meal for anyone who loves delicious, bold flavors but doesn’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. With simple ingredients, an easy marinade, and just one pan to clean, this recipe brings together the best of Korean flavors in a way that’s accessible for any home cook. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a weeknight dinner for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.