Korean BBQ Beef Burger with Kimchi Slaw

The Korean BBQ Beef Burger with Kimchi Slaw is a bold, flavor-packed fusion dish that combines the juicy richness of a classic beef burger with the sweet-savory depth of Korean barbecue flavors. Marinated beef patties infused with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil are grilled to perfection, then topped with a crunchy, tangy kimchi slaw that adds freshness and a gentle kick of heat.

This recipe brings together the best of two worlds—American comfort food and Korean cuisine—creating a burger that’s exciting, balanced, and unforgettable. Perfect for cookouts, weeknight dinners, or impressing guests, this burger delivers layers of flavor in every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it turns an ordinary burger into something unexpected and crave-worthy. The Korean BBQ marinade keeps the beef incredibly juicy and flavorful, while the kimchi slaw cuts through the richness with crunch and acidity. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, salty, spicy, and savory that never feels heavy.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Bold Korean BBQ flavors in a familiar burger format
• Juicy, tender beef with caramelized edges
• Fresh, crunchy kimchi slaw for balance
• Perfect for grilling season or indoor cooking
• A standout fusion dish that impresses easily

Preparation Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 4 burgers
• Calories: Approximately 520–580 calories per burger

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Korean-American Fusion

Ingredients

For the Korean BBQ Beef Patties

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Kimchi Slaw

• 1 cup napa cabbage, finely shredded
• ½ cup carrot, julienned
• ½ cup chopped kimchi (well-drained)
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

For Assembling

• 4 burger buns (brioche or sesame)
• Butter or oil for toasting buns
• Optional: gochujang or spicy mayo

Cooking Directions

1. Mix Korean BBQ ingredients into ground beef and form patties.
2. Prepare kimchi slaw and chill briefly.
3. Grill or pan-cook patties until cooked through.
4. Toast burger buns.
5. Assemble burgers with patties and kimchi slaw.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Form into 4 equal-sized patties.

Step 2: Make the Kimchi Slaw

In a bowl, mix shredded cabbage, carrots, chopped kimchi, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame seeds. Toss well and refrigerate while cooking the burgers.

Step 3: Cook the Burger Patties

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and edges are caramelized.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

Lightly butter the buns and toast on the grill or in a pan until golden.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

Spread gochujang or spicy mayo on the buns if desired. Place a beef patty on the bottom bun, top with generous kimchi slaw, and finish with the top bun.

How to Serve

• Serve hot with sweet potato fries or crispy wedges
• Pair with pickled cucumbers or Korean-style potato salad
• Garnish with extra sesame seeds or scallions

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overmix the beef to keep burgers tender
• Drain kimchi well to avoid soggy slaw
• Use brioche buns for a soft, slightly sweet contrast
• Adjust spice level with more or less kimchi or gochujang

Variations

Spicy Gochujang Burger

Add 1 tablespoon gochujang directly to the beef mixture.

Cheesy Korean Burger

Top patties with melted mozzarella or American cheese.

Chicken or Turkey Version

Swap ground beef with ground chicken or turkey and adjust cook time.

Lettuce-Wrap Burger

Skip the bun and serve in crisp lettuce leaves.

BBQ Bacon Upgrade

Add crispy bacon brushed with Korean BBQ sauce for extra indulgence.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator

• Cooked patties: store for up to 3 days
• Kimchi slaw: best consumed within 24–48 hours

Freezer

• Freeze uncooked patties for up to 2 months
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking

Reheating

• Reheat patties in a skillet over medium heat
• Avoid microwaving to maintain texture

Special Equipment Needed

• Grill or heavy skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula or tongs
• Meat thermometer

Conclusion

The Korean BBQ Beef Burger with Kimchi Slaw is a bold, unforgettable fusion recipe that transforms a classic burger into a flavor-packed masterpiece. Juicy Korean-style beef, crunchy tangy slaw, and soft toasted buns create a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether for a casual cookout or a creative dinner at home, this burger is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.