Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce Recipe

Published: October 2, 2025

by Hannah Reed

Why You'll Love This Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce

This incredible Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ingredients for Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce:

2 to 3 pounds flank steak – Look for well-marbled pieces for maximum tenderness and flavor. Slice against the grain for best results.

1 cup Korean Barbecue Sauce – Choose a high-quality sauce for the marinade that balances sweet and savory elements.

2 cups uncooked sweet brown or sweet white rice – This will act as the base of the bowl, providing a delicious, slightly nutty flavor and fluffy texture.

2 cups kimchi – This fermented delight adds a zesty crunch and a punch of umami flavor, making it an essential component of the dish.

2 cups cucumber slices or 16 cucumber roses – Fresh, crisp cucumbers provide a refreshing contrast; slices are practical, and cucumber roses are great for a presentation flair.

2 cups pickled carrots or steamed carrots – Pickled carrots offer a tangy kick, while steamed carrots bring a softer texture to the mix.

8 green onions – Thinly sliced, they add a mild onion flavor and vibrant color garnish.

2 tablespoons sesame seeds – For a nutty finish and a bit of crunch, sprinkle these atop your bowls.

1/2 cup Korean Barbecue Sauce – Use this for drizzling over each bowl, to boost the flavor and moisture just before serving.

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

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce:

Step 1: Marinate the Steak
Place the flank steak in a resealable zipper top bag and pour in the Korean BBQ Sauce. Squeeze out the air, seal the bag, and gently massage the marinade into the steak. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours—24 hours is even better for maximum flavor penetration.

Step 2: Get the Grill Pan Ready
Preheat a grill pan over high heat. Once hot, remove the flank steak from the marinade, allowing excess sauce to drip off, and place it on the grill. Don’t touch it for at least 3 minutes, let that glorious browning happen.

Step 3: Cook the Steak
After 3 minutes, flip the steak and let it cook for another 3 minutes. Rotate the steak 90 degrees and grill for 3 minutes more. Flip again for one last sear until it reaches your desired level of doneness, which usually takes around 12 minutes total for medium-rare.

Step 4: Let the Steak Rest
Transfer the perfectly grilled steak onto a cutting board or plate and allow it to rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This step is crucial, allowing juices to redistribute.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
In each bowl, place 1 cup of cooked rice. Now, creatively arrange 1/4 cup of kimchi, 1/4 cup of cucumber, and 1/4 cup of pickled or steamed carrots over the rice.

Step 6: Slice and Serve
Slice the flank steak diagonally against the grain into 6 to 8 pieces and place them on top of your colorful masterpiece in each bowl. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of Korean BBQ Sauce over everything, sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, and voila—deliciousness achieved! Serve immediately and dig in!

This showstopping Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce Cooking Process

Begin by marinating the flank steak in Korean BBQ sauce, then cook the rice while allowing the flavors to meld. Grill the steak to perfection, letting it rest while you prep the colorful toppings; this ensures everything is warm and fresh when it comes together.

Add Your Touch to Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce

Feel free to swap flank steak for ribeye or chicken for a lighter option. You can also wave your magic wand and turn kimchi into pickled radishes, or crank up the flavor with some crispy seaweed flakes. Make it your own!

Storing & Reheating Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce

Store the components separately in airtight containers for optimal freshness. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop with a splash of water to keep the rice fluffy and the steak juicy while avoiding a rubbery disaster.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce

This professional-quality Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Nothing beats the time I served these bowls at a family gathering; the silence was deafening as everyone took their first bite. Their cheerful faces and happy sighs told me I had hit it out of the park!

FAQs About Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce

What is Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce?

Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender, marinated flank steak with a zesty cream sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice. This dish beautifully layers vibrant toppings like kimchi, cucumbers, and pickled carrots, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Each bowl is not only a feast for the taste buds but also visually appealing, making it perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings.

How do I prepare the steak for Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce?

To prepare the steak, start by marinating flank steak in a flavorful Korean BBQ sauce. Seal the steak in a plastic bag with the sauce and refrigerate it for at least 8 hours, though 24 hours is ideal for enhanced flavor. When ready to grill, preheat the grill pan and cook the steak according to preferred doneness, allowing it to rest before slicing. This process ensures succulent, juicy steak for your rice bowls.

Can I customize the ingredients in Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce?

Absolutely! The beauty of Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce lies in its versatility. You can substitute flank steak with other proteins like chicken or tofu for a lighter option. Additionally, feel free to switch the toppings based on your preferences or what’s available, such as using pickled radishes instead of kimchi. Experimenting with different ingredients allows you to create a dish that suits your taste.

How should I store leftovers of Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce?

To store leftovers, keep the components of your Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce separate in airtight containers. This maintains freshness and flavor, allowing for a more enjoyable reheating experience. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply heat the steak and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop, making sure to add a splash of water to keep the rice from drying out.

Conclusion for Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce

Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce is an impressive dish that combines simplicity with explosive flavors, perfect for any occasion. By marinating the steak in delectable BBQ sauce and layering vibrant toppings, this meal will surely delight your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to tweak the ingredients to match your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a deliciously satisfying experience that will make your mealtime memorable.