These Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce are a delightful blend of flavors that make every bite an adventure. Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, they offer a satisfying meal that’s both quick to prepare and full of taste. The standout feature of this dish is the rich and spicy cream sauce that perfectly complements the tender steak, making it a favorite for anyone who enjoys Korean cuisine.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this meal in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, gochujang, and honey creates a deliciously savory marinade.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize your bowls with different types of rice or add your favorite veggies for extra nutrition.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these bowls will impress everyone at the table.
- Easy Cleanup: With minimal cooking tools required, cleanup is a breeze.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the cooking process seamless.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet or grill pan: Essential for achieving the perfect sear on your steak, providing that delicious charred flavor.
- Mixing bowl: Necessary for marinating the steak evenly with the flavorful ingredients.
- Whisk: Helps to combine the spicy cream sauce ingredients smoothly without lumps.
Ingredients
These savory Korean BBQ steak rice bowls are topped with a rich, spicy cream sauce for the ultimate fusion of flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal!
For the Steak Marinade
- 1 lb beef steak (flank, skirt, or New York strip), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
For Serving
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
How to Make Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, gochujang, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the steak cubes to this mixture and toss well to coat each piece. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes; if you have more time, allowing it to sit for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavor further.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
Heat your skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated steak cubes in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they reach your desired doneness. Once finished cooking, remove them from heat and let them rest for a few minutes.
Step 3: Make the Spicy Cream Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, sriracha, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to suit your preference.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
To serve, place a generous scoop of cooked rice in each bowl. Top with cooked steak cubes and finish by drizzling with the spicy cream sauce. Enjoy these delicious Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce!
How to Serve Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce
Serving these Korean BBQ steak rice bowls is a delightful experience that can be customized to your taste. Whether you prefer additional toppings or different sides, there are plenty of ways to elevate this dish.
Add Fresh Vegetables
- Cucumber slices: Crisp and refreshing, they balance the richness of the steak.
- Shredded carrots: Provide a sweet crunch that complements the spicy cream sauce.
- Sliced radishes: Add a peppery bite that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Include Tasty Garnishes
- Sesame seeds: Toasted seeds add a nutty flavor and beautiful presentation.
- Chopped green onions: Freshness from green onions brightens up each bowl.
- Cilantro leaves: A sprinkle of cilantro adds an aromatic touch.
Pair with Additional Sauces
- Extra sriracha: For those who love heat, drizzle more sriracha on top.
- Soy sauce: A splash can enhance the umami flavors in your bowl.
How to Perfect Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce
To ensure your Korean BBQ steak rice bowls taste incredible, follow these helpful tips.
- Marinate longer for flavor: Letting the steak marinate for up to 2 hours deepens the flavors significantly.
- Use high heat when cooking: Cooking at medium-high heat helps achieve a nice sear on the steak.
- Rest the meat after cooking: Allowing the steak to rest prevents juices from escaping when cut.
- Experiment with rice types: Try using brown or jasmine rice for varied texture and flavor.
- Balance spice levels: Adjust the amount of gochujang based on your heat preference.
Best Side Dishes for Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce
Pairing side dishes with your Korean BBQ steak rice bowls can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options.
- Kimchi: This fermented vegetable dish adds tanginess and spice, complementing the main course perfectly.
- Pickled vegetables: A mix of pickled cucumbers and radishes provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.
- Edamame: Lightly salted edamame offers protein and makes for a fun finger food option.
- Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso soup pairs well and warms you up on chilly nights.
- Steamed broccoli: Simple yet effective, steamed broccoli brings color and nutrition to your meal.
- Rice paper rolls: Fresh rolls filled with veggies can be a light and crunchy addition alongside your bowls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding mistakes while preparing Korean BBQ steak rice bowls is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls:
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Not marinating the steak long enough can lead to bland flavors. Allow at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, for maximum taste.
- Overcooking the Steak: Cooking the steak too long can make it tough. Aim for 3-4 minutes per side and let it rest after cooking for better tenderness.
- Ignoring Sauce Balance: Getting the spicy cream sauce proportions wrong can affect the dish’s overall flavor. Measure your ingredients carefully and adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences.
- Using Incorrect Rice Types: Not all rice works equally well in this recipe. Stick to white, brown, or jasmine rice for the best results and fluffiness.
- Neglecting Presentation: A messy bowl can detract from enjoyment. Layer your ingredients neatly for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezing Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce
- Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; label with the date.
Reheating Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cut of beef for Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce?
Flank, skirt, or New York strip steaks work best due to their flavor and tenderness when cooked properly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the steak ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Cook just before serving for optimal flavor.
How spicy is the cream sauce?
The cream sauce has a mild spiciness due to sriracha and gochujang. Adjust these ingredients based on your spice tolerance.
Can I customize my Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce?
Absolutely! Add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, or use different sauces for variation.
Final Thoughts
These Korean BBQ steak rice bowls with spicy cream sauce are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Try this recipe today for a quick weeknight dinner that satisfies!

Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce
- Author: Cecilia
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce are a delightful fusion of flavors that elevate any meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish combines tender marinated beef with a rich, creamy sauce, offering a satisfying experience in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef steak (flank, skirt, or New York strip), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp sriracha
Instructions
- Marinate the steak by mixing soy sauce, gochujang, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Add steak cubes and toss well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated steak cubes for about 3-4 minutes on each side until desired doneness is reached. Remove from heat and let rest.
- For the spicy cream sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, sriracha, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
- Assemble bowls with cooked rice topped with steak cubes and drizzled with spicy cream sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling/Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 830mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Marinate the steak for up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor. Adjust the spice level in the cream sauce by adding more or less sriracha as desired. Feel free to customize toppings with fresh veggies like cucumber slices or shredded carrots.