Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with bold flavors and satisfying textures, you cannot miss these Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce. This vibrant meal perfectly balances tender, marinated steak with a creamy, spicy sauce that elevates every bite, all nestled atop fluffy rice. Whether you’re craving something quick and comforting after a long day or aiming to impress friends with an easy yet exotic dinner, these bowls deliver on every level.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce lies in the simplicity and harmony of its ingredients. Each component plays a critical role — from the juicy, flavor-packed steak to the subtly sweet and spicy cream sauce, and, of course, the hearty rice base that ties everything together.

• 1 lb beef steak (flank, skirt, or New York strip): Choose a cut that’s flavorful and tender when sliced into cubes.
• 1 tbsp soy sauce: Adds salty umami richness to the marinade.
• 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste): A must-have for authentic Korean heat and depth.
• 1 tbsp honey: Balances the spicy elements with a touch of natural sweetness.
• 1 tsp sesame oil: Infuses the steak with a nutty aroma and flavor.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances savory notes without overwhelming.
• ½ tsp onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity to the marinade.
• ¼ tsp salt: Brings out all the flavors perfectly.
• ⅛ tsp black pepper: Lends a gentle heat and peppery bite.
• 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine): Acts as a comforting, neutral base for the bold components.
• ½ cup mayonnaise: Gives the spicy cream sauce its luscious, rich texture.
• ¼ cup sour cream: Adds a tangy coolness to offset the heat.
• 1 tbsp sriracha: Packs extra punch and vibrant colour into the sauce.
• ¼ tsp salt: Balances the flavors in the cream sauce.
• ⅛ tsp black pepper: A subtle kick to finish off the sauce.

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

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Start by whisking together soy sauce, gochujang, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the cubed beef steak in this marinade ensuring every piece is coated well. Let it soak up all those rich flavors for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have the time—it really makes a delicious difference.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

Bring a skillet or grill pan to medium-high heat and sear the marinated steak cubes for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a nicely browned exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. After cooking, allow the steak to rest a few minutes so the juices settle, guaranteeing every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Make the Spicy Cream Sauce

In a small bowl, simply whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sriracha, salt, and black pepper until perfectly smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—you want a spicy yet creamy sauce that brightens the steak without overpowering it.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Spoon a generous serving of hot, cooked rice into each bowl. Layer the succulent steak cubes on top, and finish by drizzling that irresistible spicy cream sauce all over. This simple assembly lets each ingredient shine while creating a harmonious, mouthwatering dish.

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

Garnishes

To add an extra pop of color and texture, sprinkle chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or thinly sliced fresh chili over your bowls. These garnishes not only elevate the visual appeal but also provide delightful bursts of flavor that complement the richness of the steak and sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with light, crisp side dishes like a simple cucumber salad tossed with rice vinegar or a quick kimchi to bring authentic Korean flair. Alternatively, steamed or sautéed vegetables add freshness and balance to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce in lettuce wraps instead of bowls. This adds a refreshing crunch and makes the dish feel extra vibrant and hands-on. You could also turn it into a rice bowl platter with compartments for different toppings or sides for a festive and interactive dining experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover steak, rice, and spicy cream sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the components separate helps maintain their freshness and texture when reheating.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, leftover cooked steak cubes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Freeze in a single layer on a tray before transferring to a sealed bag or container to prevent clumping. The rice and sauce freeze less well but can be frozen if necessary in small portions.

Reheating

When ready to eat, gently reheat the steak and rice together in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep things moist. Warm the spicy cream sauce separately to avoid breaking the emulsion before drizzling it over your reheated bowl.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! While beef steak works best for that authentic Korean BBQ feel, chicken or pork can also be used with the same marinade for delicious variations.

Is gochujang very spicy?

Gochujang has a moderate level of heat paired with a hint of sweetness and umami. It’s not overwhelmingly spicy, but if you’re sensitive to heat, you can reduce the amount.

Can I make the spicy cream sauce dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like vegan mayo and coconut yogurt to keep the creamy texture without dairy.

What type of rice is best for this dish?

Jasmine, white, or brown rice all work wonderfully. Jasmine rice brings a fragrant note, while brown rice adds nuttiness and extra fiber.

How long can I marinate the steak beforehand?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes is ideal, but you can leave it up to 2 hours for a deeper infusion of flavors. Avoid marinating too long to prevent the meat from becoming mushy.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the secrets to making these incredible Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and treat yourself. This dish is the perfect blend of bold flavors, comforting textures, and easy preparation. Trust me, once you taste it, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals to enjoy any day of the week.

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