Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce

If you’re craving something full of flavor that’s also incredibly satisfying, look no further than these Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce! This dish brings together the smoky, savory goodness of marinated steak, topped with vibrant vegetables, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. But the real star of the show? That spicy cream sauce—it’s rich, tangy, and has just the right amount of kick to balance the hearty steak. It’s like a flavor explosion in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or for a weekend feast with friends, this bowl of deliciousness will have everyone asking for the recipe. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!

Why You’ll Love Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce

Flavor-Packed

These bowls are bursting with bold flavors from the Korean BBQ-style steak, tangy kimchi, fresh veggies, and that creamy, spicy sauce. The combination is so satisfying, you’ll want to make this dish again and again!

Quick & Easy

Even though it tastes like something you’d get at a restaurant, these bowls are surprisingly simple to make! The steak marinade comes together in minutes, and the rest is a breeze to assemble. Dinner in under 30 minutes? Yes, please!

Customizable

This recipe is super flexible, so feel free to switch things up based on what you have on hand. Love a little more crunch? Add some pickled veggies. Want it extra spicy? Double the sriracha in the sauce. The possibilities are endless.

Balanced Meal

With a perfect mix of protein, vegetables, and carbs, this dish is a well-rounded, satisfying meal. It’s filling without being too heavy, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients in Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce

Let’s break down the ingredients that make this dish so irresistible:

Flank Steak or Skirt Steak

The star of this dish! Flank or skirt steak is ideal because it’s tender and soaks up the flavors of the marinade beautifully.

Soy Sauce

The soy sauce in the marinade gives the steak that rich umami flavor that’s the foundation of Korean BBQ.

Brown Sugar

A bit of sweetness to balance out the salty soy sauce and help caramelize the steak when you cook it.

Sesame Oil

Sesame oil adds a nutty, aromatic flavor that’s essential for authentic Korean BBQ taste.

Garlic

Garlic is a must to infuse the steak with that irresistible savory flavor.

Ginger

Fresh ginger adds a spicy, aromatic kick to the marinade that complements the richness of the steak.

Rice Vinegar

Rice vinegar adds a bit of acidity and balance to the marinade and the spicy cream sauce.

Sriracha

This is what gives the creamy sauce its bold heat, adding the perfect level of spice to complement the steak and veggies.

Mayonnaise

For a rich and creamy texture, mayonnaise is the base of the spicy cream sauce.

Rice

A bed of steamed rice is the perfect foundation to soak up all the delicious flavors from the steak and sauce.

Cucumber, Carrots, and Kimchi

These fresh toppings add crunch and tang, balancing the richness of the steak and sauce. Kimchi brings that traditional Korean flavor that’s both spicy and tangy!

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Ready to create this flavor-packed dish? Here’s how to do it step by step:

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add your flank or skirt steak to the marinade and let it sit for at least 20 minutes. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the steak will be!

Step 2: Make the Spicy Cream Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha, and rice vinegar. Stir well to combine and adjust the amount of sriracha depending on how spicy you like it. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Heat a grill pan or regular skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your preferred doneness. Once cooked, remove from heat and let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.

Step 4: Prepare the Rice and Veggies

While the steak is cooking, prepare your rice according to the package instructions. For the toppings, thinly slice cucumber and carrots, and have your kimchi ready.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Start by adding a generous scoop of rice to each bowl. Top with the sliced steak, followed by the fresh cucumber, carrots, and kimchi. Drizzle the spicy cream sauce generously over the top, and garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls immediately and enjoy all those bold, flavorful layers!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 520
Total Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 900mg
Total Carbohydrates: 47g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 28g
Vitamin A: 45%
Vitamin C: 10%
Calcium: 6%
Iron: 20%
Potassium: 470mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce

This dish is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to take it to the next level:

Fresh Herbs

Garnish with some fresh cilantro or green onions for a burst of color and a fresh, herby note.

Pickled Vegetables

For an extra tangy crunch, you can add pickled radishes or onions as a topping.

Extra Spicy?

Love heat? Add some extra sliced fresh chili peppers on top of the bowl or stir a bit more sriracha into the sauce.

Side Salad

A light side salad with a sesame dressing would pair beautifully with these bowls for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

Marinate Longer for More Flavor

For the best flavor, try marinating the steak for at least an hour, or even overnight if you have time. The longer the steak marinates, the more it absorbs those delicious Korean BBQ flavors.

Use Leftover Steak

If you have leftover steak from a previous meal, this recipe is a great way to repurpose it! Just heat the steak through and slice it thin before assembling the bowls.

Make it Vegetarian

For a vegetarian option, substitute the steak with grilled tofu or tempeh. It will still taste amazing with the spicy cream sauce and rice!

Adjust the Spice Level

If you’re not a fan of super spicy food, you can adjust the sriracha in the sauce to your liking, or even use a mild hot sauce instead.

Leftovers

Store any leftover steak and rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the steak in a skillet to keep it tender and juicy.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of meat?

A1: Absolutely! You can swap the flank steak for another cut like ribeye or sirloin. For a more affordable option, try using chicken breast or pork tenderloin.

Q2: Can I make this dish gluten-free?

A2: Yes! Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce to make the marinade gluten-free. Just be sure your mayonnaise is gluten-free as well.

Q3: Can I make the spicy cream sauce ahead of time?

A3: Yes! The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. It actually allows the flavors to meld together more over time.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

A4: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Q5: Can I make this dish without the spicy cream sauce?

A5: Definitely! You can skip the spicy cream sauce and use a regular Korean BBQ sauce or even a simple soy sauce drizzle for a lighter version.

Q6: Can I prepare the rice ahead of time?

A6: Yes, you can cook the rice ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little bit of water to loosen it up.

Q7: How do I keep the steak juicy?

A7: Let the steak rest for 5 minutes after cooking before slicing it. This helps retain the juices and keeps the meat tender.

Q8: Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

A8: While fresh veggies are ideal, you can use frozen vegetables if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain them properly.

Q9: What kind of rice should I use?

A9: Jasmine rice or short-grain rice works best for this dish because of its slightly sticky texture. You can also use brown rice for a healthier twist.

Q10: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A10: The steak and spicy cream sauce can be made ahead of time, but I recommend assembling the bowls just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

Conclusion

These Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce are the perfect combination of bold, smoky, and spicy flavors, topped with fresh veggies and served over a bed of fluffy rice. Whether you’re treating yourself to a flavorful dinner or impressing your friends with a tasty meal, this dish will be a hit every time. The best part? It’s quick and easy, so you can enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal without any hassle. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!

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