Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls

Korean BBQ steak rice bowls with spicy cream sauce are my go-to solution when I want an easy weeknight dinner that packs serious flavor but still feels fresh. With savory marinated steak, fluffy rice, and a punchy drizzle of creamy hot sauce, this dish always leaves everyone at the table satisfied and asking for seconds.

I made this recipe for the first time after visiting a Korean BBQ place in the city I loved how the sweet savory steak and spicy sauce came together and re-creating it at home was a fun adventure that quickly became a household favorite for nights when we want something hearty and a little special

Gather Your Ingredients

• Beef steak: select flank skirt or New York strip for tenderness and a meaty flavor look for marbled meat with bright red color
• Soy sauce: brings a deep umami note opt for naturally brewed for the best taste
• Gochujang: Korean chili paste for authentic sweet heat seek out a brand with simple ingredients for clean flavor
• Honey: balances spice with a touch of sweetness local honey gives richer depth
• Sesame oil: delivers nutty warmth choose toasted for a more pronounced aroma
• Garlic powder: adds mellow savory punch pick a fresh smelling blend for the best result
• Salt: enhances all the other flavors use kosher or sea salt if possible
• Black pepper: gives subtle bite grind fresh for maximum aroma
• Cooked rice: white brown or jasmine each offers a unique base use day-old rice for best texture
• Sriracha: for bold spicy kick select a brand you love for flavor nuance
• Mayonnaise and sour cream: these create the creamy binding for the spicy sauce full-fat for rich mouthfeel

How to Make It

Marinate the Steak:

Combine soy sauce gochujang honey sesame oil garlic powder salt and black pepper in a bowl Mix thoroughly until smooth Add steak cubes and toss until every piece is evenly coated Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes but up to two hours for the boldest flavor depth

Cook the Steak:

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high until hot Working in batches if needed arrange the marinated steak cubes in a single layer Leave undisturbed for 3-4 minutes so a crust forms Flip and cook the other side until your preferred doneness is reached Medium rare takes about 3 minutes per side Transfer steak to a plate and allow it to rest so juices lock in

Make the Spicy Cream Sauce:

In a small bowl blend mayonnaise sour cream sriracha salt and black pepper Whisk until the mixture is completely smooth and homogenous Taste and adjust sriracha if you like it hotter or add a pinch more salt if needed

Assemble the Bowls:

Scoop cooked rice into each serving bowl Top generously with the seared steak cubes Drizzle that spicy cream sauce over the steak letting it pool into the rice Add extra sauce on the side or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a final touch

This dish always reminds me of family get-togethers when we gather around to share big bowls of rice and steak The gochujang is my favorite ingredient for its unique balance of sweet spice and savoriness and it is that one flavor that always makes me think of cozy evenings and laughter around the dinner table

Flavor Boosters

Let steak rest after cooking so it stays juicy Gochujang can vary in spice so taste your marinade Rice bowls taste even better the next day as flavors meld

Serving Suggestions

Top bowls with pickled vegetables fresh cucumber slices or some steamed broccoli for balance and crunch A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions makes the presentation pop and brings extra Korean flair Serve alongside kimchi for a classic side dish that brightens up every bite

Creative Twists

Chicken thighs or pork tenderloin are great swaps for steak just marinate and cook the same way for a flavorful twist For a dairy-free version use vegan mayo and non-dairy sour cream in the sauce and skip the honey for a little extra gochujang If you prefer mild flavors cut the sriracha by half or leave it out entirely letting the gochujang provide all the spice

Every time you make these steak bowls, the rich flavors and spicy sauce guarantee smiles at the table. Enjoy customizing them to your tastes—they are always a crowd-pleaser!

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What type of steak works best for these bowls?

Flank, skirt, or New York strip steak cut into cubes is ideal for tender texture and rich flavor.

→ How long should the steak marinate?

Let the beef marinate at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor infusion.

→ Can I substitute another grain for rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa to suit your preferences.

→ What makes the sauce spicy and creamy?

The spicy cream sauce combines mayonnaise, sour cream, and sriracha for a smooth, zesty finish.

→ How do you achieve tender steak cubes?

High-heat searing on each side followed by a brief rest keeps the steak juicy and tender.