If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that fits busy US lifestyles, this Instant Pot Bulgogi recipe is the perfect solution. Made with tender beef, a sweet-savory Korean-inspired sauce, and cooked fast in the Instant Pot, this dish delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family meals.
What Is Bulgogi?
Bulgogi is a popular Korean beef dish traditionally made with thinly sliced beef marinated in soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil. Using an Instant Pot makes it even easier by locking in flavor and cutting cooking time—perfect for American home kitchens.
Ingredients (US Measurements)
- 1½ lbs beef sirloin or flank steak (thinly sliced)
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)
- 1 small onion (sliced)
- 1 Asian pear or apple (grated)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tbsp neutral oil (avocado or vegetable)
- Green onions & sesame seeds (for garnish)
How to Make Instant Pot Bulgogi
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, grated pear (or apple), and rice vinegar.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef
Turn Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add oil and quickly brown the beef in batches (2–3 minutes). This step adds extra flavor.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
Add sliced onion and pour the sauce over the beef. Close lid, set valve to sealing, and pressure cook on High for 8 minutes.
Step 4: Release & Thicken
Do a quick release. Switch back to Sauté mode. Add cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker sauce and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Serving Ideas (US Favorites)
- Over steamed white or brown rice
- In lettuce wraps for a low-carb option
- Inside tacos or sliders for a Korean-American twist
- Meal-prep bowls with rice and veggies
Tips for Best Results
- Freeze beef for 20 minutes before slicing for extra-thin cuts.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels.
- Apple works perfectly if Asian pear is unavailable in US stores.
Why Americans Love This Recipe
✔ Ready in under 30 minutes
✔ Family-friendly flavors
✔ Perfect for meal prep
✔ No long marinating time required
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Bulgogi recipe (US-style) delivers authentic Korean flavor with modern convenience. Whether you’re new to Korean food or a longtime fan, this dish is an easy win for your dinner table.