Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce are a flavor-packed meal that combines tender, marinated steak with fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and a bold, creamy chili sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish offers a satisfying balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and umami flavors—all in one bowl.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ribeye or sirloin steaksoy saucesesame oilbrown sugargarlicgingerrice vinegargochujang (Korean chili paste)mayonnaiseGreek yogurtlime juicejasmine ricecarrotscucumberscallionssesame seedsvegetable oil

directions

Cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions and set aside.

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar to create the marinade.

Slice the steak thinly against the grain and marinate it in the sauce for at least 30 minutes.

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated steak for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked to your desired doneness.

Prepare the spicy cream sauce by mixing gochujang, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and lime juice until smooth.

Assemble the rice bowls by layering rice, sliced steak, shredded carrots, cucumber ribbons, and chopped scallions.

Drizzle the spicy cream sauce over the top and garnish with sesame seeds.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 rice bowls.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Swap beef for chicken or tofu for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Add kimchi for an extra tangy, fermented flavor.
Include sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli for more vegetables.
Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

storage/reheating

Store leftover components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Reheat steak and rice in a microwave or skillet before serving.
Keep the spicy cream sauce refrigerated and use within 5 days.

FAQs

What cut of steak is best for this recipe?
Ribeye or sirloin are ideal for tenderness and flavor, but flank steak works too.

Is gochujang very spicy?
It has a moderate heat level with sweet and savory notes, but you can adjust to taste.

Can I make this sauce less spicy?
Yes, reduce the gochujang or increase the mayo and yogurt ratio.

Do I have to marinate the steak?
Marinating enhances flavor, but in a pinch, you can cook the steak with a quick sauce instead.

Can I use leftover rice?
Absolutely, day-old rice works great for these bowls.

What vegetables can I add?
Try spinach, bean sprouts, bell peppers, or pickled radish for variety.

Is this good for meal prep?
Yes, prepare all components in advance and assemble when ready to eat.

Can I grill the steak instead?
Yes, grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor to the dish.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free mayo and yogurt alternative for the sauce.

Can I use store-bought Korean BBQ sauce?
Yes, but homemade marinade provides a fresher, more customizable flavor.

Conclusion

Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce are a delicious, vibrant way to enjoy Korean-inspired flavors at home. With tender meat, colorful toppings, and a zesty sauce, each bite is an explosion of taste and texture. They’re customizable, quick to prepare, and sure to become a favorite in your weekly meal lineup.