If you’re craving a dinner that’s bold, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes, these Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce are exactly what you need. Tender, juicy steak is marinated in a savory-sweet blend, grilled (or pan-seared) to perfection, then served over fluffy rice with a creamy, spicy drizzle that ties it all together. Every bite is a balance of umami, heat, and richness that feels restaurant-worthy—but easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
What makes this recipe truly stand out is its flexibility and speed. You can customize the flavors to your liking by adjusting the marinade and the spicy cream sauce, making it an excellent option for both adventurous and cautious palates alike. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just enjoy a simple yet delicious meal at home, these Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls fit the bill perfectly. Let’s get right into why you’ll love this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls
When it comes to weeknight cooking, nothing beats a recipe that combines speed, flavor, and customization. Here are several reasons why you’ll adore this Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowl recipe:
- Big Flavor: Sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy in every bite.
- Customizable Heat: Keep the sauce mild or fiery depending on your preference.
- Quick & Easy: On the table in 30 minutes (plus a short marinating time).
- Versatile: Works with steak, chicken, shrimp, or even tofu.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and enjoy all week long.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the right tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. First, clear a clean workspace, as a clutter-free area makes for a more enjoyable cooking adventure. Ensure that your knives are sharp and your cutting board is ready for slicing the steak.
You will need a skillet or grill pan for cooking the steak. If you prefer to use an outdoor grill, that can add fantastic flavor as well! Additionally, have a large bowl ready for marinating the steak and small mixing bowls for the spicy cream sauce. Cooking rice can be done easily in a rice cooker or on the stove, so ensure you have that equipment set up as well. Once everything is in place, you can move through the steps efficiently.
Ingredients
To make Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye (thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 3–4 cups cooked rice (jasmine or white rice works best)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1–2 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp lime juice
- Pinch of salt & black pepper
- Sliced green onions (optional but recommended)
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional but recommended)
- Kimchi or quick-pickled veggies (optional but recommended)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
Start by preparing the marinade. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar (or honey), sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Once the ingredients are well combined, add the sliced steak to the bowl, ensuring that each piece is well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the steak marinate for at least 20 to 30 minutes. If you have more time, letting it marinate overnight will deepen the flavors even more.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
While the steak is marinating, you can focus on cooking the rice. Follow the package instructions, whether you are using white rice or jasmine rice. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and keep it warm. Fluffy rice serves as a perfect base for the flavorful steak.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
With the rice ready and the steak marinated, heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add the marinated steak slices to the pan. Cook the pieces for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, depending on their thickness and how well done you like your steak. It’s essential not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches. Once done, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute, then slice it thinly against the grain.
Step 4: Make the Spicy Cream Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Sriracha, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. Taste it! If you want a little extra heat, feel free to add more Sriracha.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Scoop an ample portion of warm rice into each serving bowl. Top it generously with sliced steak and then drizzle the spicy cream sauce all over the steak. For added flavor and visual appeal, garnish with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and any kimchi or quick-pickled veggies you have on hand. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors will make this bowl a feast for the eyes, as well.
Variations
This recipe is delightfully versatile, allowing you to mix and match ingredients based on your dietary preferences or availability. Here are some ideas for variations:
- Protein: Swap the steak for chicken thighs, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Add sautéed bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for an extra nutritional punch.
- Spices: Experiment with how spicy you make the sauce or add sesame seeds directly into the marinade for an extra kick.
Cooking Notes
When striving for a perfect dish, keep these cooking notes in mind:
- Make sure to slice your meat against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- For leftover sauces, store them separately to maintain the texture and flavor of the main dish.
- Marinate the steak overnight whenever possible for enhanced flavor.
- Feel free to toast the sesame seeds before garnishing for a deeper flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls make a memorable meal on their own, but you can also consider these serving suggestions:
- Serve with a side of edamame for a nutritious snack before the main course.
- Pair with a light soup or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Offer additional garnishes like pickled carrots or daikon radish for guests to customize their bowls.
Tips
To ensure you get the most out of this recipe, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t rush the marinating process—it’s essential for flavor infusion.
- Be careful not to overcook your steak; it’s best served medium-rare to medium.
- If you prefer to make the sauce a day in advance, it can often taste even better as the flavors meld.
- For a delicious twist, consider adding crushed peanuts or cashews as a final topping for a great texture contrast.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (including marinating)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 650 per serving
- Protein: 35g per serving
- Sodium: 800mg per serving
FAQs
Can I use another type of meat instead of steak?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply substitute soy sauce with tamari to make this recipe gluten-friendly.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the spicy cream sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
What can I serve with these rice bowls?
Consider serving your rice bowls with sides like steamed vegetables, a simple salad, or pickled veggies for added crunch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce are a game-changer when it comes to quick weeknight dinners. They offer a delightful blend of flavors, are incredibly fulfilling, and provide ample room for personalization. Whether you’re seeking to impress guests with a flavorful meal or simply want to treat yourself to something delicious, these rice bowls are the answer. Don’t hesitate to share your takes on this recipe in the comments below and let your creativity shine through as you explore different variations!
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Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
If you’re craving a dinner that’s bold, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes, these Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce are exactly what you need.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye (thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 3–4 cups cooked rice (jasmine or white rice works best)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1–2 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp lime juice
- Pinch of salt & black pepper
- Sliced green onions (optional but recommended)
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional but recommended)
- Kimchi or quick-pickled veggies (optional but recommended)
Instructions
- Start by preparing the marinade. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar (or honey), sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Once the ingredients are well combined, add the sliced steak to the bowl, ensuring that each piece is well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the steak marinate for at least 20 to 30 minutes. If you have more time, letting it marinate overnight will deepen the flavors even more.
- While the steak is marinating, you can focus on cooking the rice. Follow the package instructions, whether you are using white rice or jasmine rice. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and keep it warm. Fluffy rice serves as a perfect base for the flavorful steak.
- With the rice ready and the steak marinated, heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add the marinated steak slices to the pan. Cook the pieces for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, depending on their thickness and how well done you like your steak. It’s essential not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches. Once done, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute, then slice it thinly against the grain.
- In a small mixing bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Sriracha, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. Taste it! If you want a little extra heat, feel free to add more Sriracha.
- Now it’s time to bring everything together. Scoop an ample portion of warm rice into each serving bowl. Top it generously with sliced steak and then drizzle the spicy cream sauce all over the steak. For added flavor and visual appeal, garnish with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and any kimchi or quick-pickled veggies you have on hand. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors will make this bowl a feast for the eyes, as well.
Notes
If you have leftovers, it’s best to store the sauce separately to maintain its texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 35 g