Air Fryer Korean Spicy Pork Bulgogi (K-Food to Try)

Bold, savory, and packed with heat, Air Fryer Korean Spicy Pork Bulgogi is a flavor-loaded dish that brings Korean-inspired comfort right into your kitchen. Traditionally cooked over open flame or a hot pan, this version uses the air fryer to create beautifully caramelized edges while keeping the pork tender and juicy. The result is sticky, spicy, slightly sweet pork that’s perfect for rice bowls, lettuce wraps, or quick weeknight meals.

I love how this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The marinade does most of the work, infusing the pork with garlicky, gingery depth and that signature gochujang heat. Once it hits the air fryer, the sugars in the sauce caramelize, giving you those irresistible crispy bits that make bulgogi so crave-worthy.

This is the kind of meal that feels exciting and comforting all at once.

Why This Recipe Works

Thinly sliced pork cooks quickly in the air fryer, which helps the edges char slightly while the inside stays juicy. Gochujang provides spicy, umami richness, while a touch of sweetness balances the heat. The air fryer’s circulating hot air mimics the high heat of traditional grilling, creating caramelized flavor without needing a stovetop or grill.

Because the pork cooks fast and evenly, this dish is perfect when you want something bold but don’t have a lot of time.

Ingredients

For the pork

• 1 pound thinly sliced pork shoulder or pork belly
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for slight crisping)

For the bulgogi marinade

• 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For serving

• Cooked white rice
• Lettuce leaves (for wraps)
• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Sliced cucumbers or pickled vegetables

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar or honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and black pepper.
2. Add the sliced pork and toss until fully coated.
3. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
4. If desired, toss the marinated pork with cornstarch just before cooking for slightly crisp edges.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
6. Lightly oil the air fryer basket or use parchment designed for air fryers.
7. Arrange the pork in a single layer, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
8. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through, until the pork is cooked through and caramelized at the edges.
9. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
10. Serve hot with rice, lettuce wraps, and fresh vegetables.

Tips for the Best Results

Thin slices cook best. If your pork pieces are thick, they may steam instead of caramelize. Spreading the pork in a single layer allows hot air to circulate, giving you those slightly crispy edges that make bulgogi so delicious.

Marinating longer deepens the flavor, but even 30 minutes makes a big difference.

For more pork cooking tips, don’t miss my Ultimate Air Fryer Pork Recipes Guide.

Flavor Variations

• Add thinly sliced onions to the marinade for sweetness.
• Stir in a little grated apple or pear for traditional Korean-style natural sweetness.
• Increase gochujang for extra heat or add a drizzle of honey at the end for a sweeter glaze.

Serving Ideas

Serve the pork over steamed rice with a fried egg on top for a comforting bowl. It’s also fantastic wrapped in lettuce with a bit of rice and pickled veggies for a fresh, crunchy contrast. You can even use leftovers in tacos or sandwiches for a fun fusion twist.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp again.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Korean Spicy Pork Bulgogi is a bold, satisfying dish that proves big flavor doesn’t require complicated cooking. The spicy-sweet marinade, caramelized edges, and tender pork make every bite exciting and comforting at the same time. It’s quick enough for weeknights but flavorful enough to feel like something special — a perfect balance of ease and crave-worthy taste.