Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce

Name: Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, onions); 2 green onions, sliced; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce; 1 teaspoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Savor the vibrant tastes of Korean cuisine with these Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls topped with a luscious spicy cream sauce. Perfectly marinated steak is grilled to juicy perfection and served over a bed of fluffy rice, making a delightful and satisfying meal. Enhance this flavorful bowl with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of creamy sauce for a unique twist that will impress your family and friends.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-11-29T05:47:37.312Z

Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls combine the heartiness of grilled steak with the comfort of rice, creating a meal that is both satisfying and full of flavor. The spicy cream sauce adds a kick that elevates the dish to a whole new level!

The Secrets to Perfectly Grilled Steak

Grilling steak to perfection is both an art and a science. The first step is marinating the flank steak, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply. A mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar not only enhances the taste but also tenderizes the steak. Aim for at least 15 minutes of marinating time; however, longer marination can yield even juicier results. Don't forget to preheat your grill to medium-high heat to achieve those perfect grill marks and that satisfying char.

When grilling, timing is essential to achieve your desired doneness. For medium-rare steak, grill each side for about 4-5 minutes. Remember that the steak will continue to cook while it rests, so remove it from the grill slightly earlier than your target temperature. After grilling, allowing the steak to rest before slicing is crucial. This lets the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The beauty of the Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowl lies not just in the steak but also in the vibrant vegetables that accompany it. Choosing a mix of colorful vegetables not only enhances the dish visually but also adds texture and nutritional value. Carrots, bell peppers, and onions are excellent choices that provide crunch and sweetness. Feel free to customize the vegetable mix based on your preferences or what’s in season, such as adding snap peas or bok choy for an additional layer of flavor.

To ensure your mixed vegetables shine in this dish, consider lightly sautéing them in a bit of sesame oil. This method brings out their natural sweetness while keeping them crisp. Alternatively, you can serve them raw for a crunchier texture, creating a delightful contrast against the tender steak and creamy spicy sauce.

Crafting the Spicy Cream Sauce

The spicy cream sauce elevates the Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowl, adding a zesty kick that complements the savory flavors of the dish. Made with mayonnaise, Sriracha, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, this sauce is a perfect blend of creaminess and heat. Adjusting the Sriracha allows you to control the spice level to your liking, making it suitable for all palates. A tip for an extra layer of flavor is to mix in a touch of honey or lime juice for a different twist.

Drizzling the spicy cream sauce over the assembled bowl adds not only flavor but also a visually appealing presentation. Creamy sauces play a significant role in Korean dishes, and this sauce captures the essence without overshadowing the other ingredients. Experimenting with additional toppings such as toasted garlic or chopped peanuts can further enhance the dish, creating a unique dining experience.

Ingredients

For the Steak

1 lb flank steak
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice Bowl

2 cups cooked rice
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, onions)
2 green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

For the Spicy Cream Sauce

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Mix and match ingredients to suit your taste!

Steps

Marinate the Steak

In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Add the flank steak and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Steak

Grill the marinated steak over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Allow it to rest before slicing thinly.

Prepare the Spicy Cream Sauce

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Adjust the spice level by adding more Sriracha as desired.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, add a base of rice, followed by grilled steak slices, mixed vegetables, and a generous drizzle of spicy cream sauce. Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls!

A Complete Meal in a Bowl

The Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowl is a well-rounded meal, presenting a balanced combination of protein, carbs, and vitamins from the vegetables. This makes it an ideal option for lunch or dinner, especially when you’re looking for something hearty yet wholesome. By using simple ingredients, you can easily tailor the bowl to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions while keeping the flavors intact.

With the base of fluffy rice, savory steak, fresh vegetables, and a kicky sauce, every component works in harmony. You can also add side dishes like kimchi or pickled vegetables for an authentic experience, bringing the full essence of Korean cuisine right to your table.

Meal Prep for Busy Weeknights

This recipe is an excellent choice for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals even on the busiest days. You can marinate the steak and chop the vegetables ahead of time, storing them in airtight containers in the fridge. Cook the rice in advance as well, and you can have everything ready to go when it’s time to eat.

On the day you plan to enjoy this dish, simply grill the steak and assemble your bowls in minutes. This method not only saves time but also ensures you maintain control over what goes into your meal, making it a healthier alternative to takeout. Plus, the flavors typically improve after a day in the fridge, making it a win-win for taste and convenience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of steak?

Yes, chicken thighs would work well with the same marinade.

→ Is it spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted by altering the amount of Sriracha in the sauce.