Korean BBQ Steak Bowls: A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner

If you’re craving bold, savory flavors but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, these Korean BBQ Steak Bowls are exactly what you need. Juicy grilled steak is sliced thin and drizzled with creamy spicy mayo, then served over fluffy rice with green onions for a satisfying meal that hits all the right notes—umami, spice, and comfort.

This dish is inspired by classic Korean BBQ but made weeknight-friendly. There’s no grill table required, just a hot pan or grill, a simple marinade, and a bowl to pile it all into.

Whether you’re feeding the family, meal-prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to a restaurant-style dinner at home, these steak bowls are a guaranteed win.

this Recipe

What Are Korean BBQ Steak Bowls?

Korean BBQ Steak Bowls are rice bowls topped with tender slices of grilled steak marinated in a Korean-style sauce, then finished with spicy mayo and fresh scallions. They’re quick to prepare but packed with flavor.

They bring together the elements of Korean barbecue—grilled beef, rice, spice, and freshness—in one easy-to-serve meal. It’s like your favorite Korean BBQ takeout, but faster and made right in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick cooking time – Ready in about 30 minutes.
• Bold flavors – Sweet, smoky, savory, and spicy all in one bite.
• Easy to customize – Use your favorite rice or swap in veggies.
• Perfect for meal prep – Make the steak and sauce ahead.
• Kid-friendly option – Serve the spicy sauce on the side if needed.

What Do Korean BBQ Steak Bowls Taste Like?

These bowls are loaded with flavor. The steak is juicy and slightly charred, marinated in a soy sauce-based mixture with garlic, sesame oil, and a touch of brown sugar for sweetness. The spicy mayo adds a creamy, tangy kick, and the green onions keep things fresh.

The combination of warm rice, savory steak, and creamy sauce is deeply satisfying—comfort food with a Korean twist.

Benefits of Making Korean BBQ Steak Bowls

• Healthier than takeout – You control the ingredients.
• Balanced meal – Protein, carbs, and fresh toppings in one bowl.
• Customizable heat level – Use more or less spice as you like.
• Minimal cleanup – One pan for steak, one bowl for serving.
• Great for leftovers – Steak reheats well for next-day lunches.

Ingredients for Korean BBQ Steak Bowls

Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Steak Marinade:

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp grated ginger (optional)

For the Spicy Mayo:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp sriracha
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp lime juice or rice vinegar

For the Bowl Assembly:

• 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowls
• Grill pan or skillet
• Tongs or spatula
• Serving bowls

Ingredient Swaps & Additions

• Use chicken or shrimp – The marinade works great for other proteins.
• Try cauliflower rice – For a low-carb option.
• Add veggies – Cucumber, kimchi, or pickled carrots make great toppings.
• Swap sriracha for gochujang – For a more traditional Korean flavor.
• Add a fried egg – For extra protein and richness.

How to Make Korean BBQ Steak Bowls

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, black pepper, rice vinegar, and ginger.

Add the thinly sliced steak and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour for more flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Steak

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook the steak in batches (to avoid crowding the pan) for 2–3 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and cooked to your liking.

Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing if not already cut.

Step 3: Make the Spicy Mayo

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha, sesame oil, and lime juice.

Adjust spice level to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Scoop cooked rice into bowls.

Top with sliced steak, drizzle with spicy mayo, and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds.

Serve immediately!

What to Serve with Korean BBQ Steak Bowls

• Steamed or stir-fried vegetables
• Kimchi or pickled radish
• Fresh cucumber salad
• Miso soup or egg drop soup
• Extra spicy mayo or soy sauce on the side

Tips for Success

• Slice steak thinly – Against the grain for tenderness.
• Use a hot pan – To get a good sear and caramelization.
• Marinate in advance – The longer, the more flavorful.
• Don’t crowd the pan – Cook steak in batches for best results.
• Serve immediately – The steak is best hot off the pan.

Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm steak gently in a skillet or microwave.
• Spicy mayo: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.

General Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2–3 servings

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought Korean BBQ sauce?

Yes! You can substitute the homemade marinade with bottled Korean BBQ sauce for convenience.

What cut of steak works best?

Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye all work well. Just slice thinly.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spicy mayo adds a mild heat, but you can adjust the sriracha to taste.

Can I meal prep this?

Absolutely! Cook the steak and rice ahead of time and store separately. Assemble bowls when ready to eat.

Conclusion

These Korean BBQ Steak Bowls deliver bold flavors and satisfying textures in just 25 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for busy days, this dish is simple, customizable, and full of that classic Korean BBQ taste—without the need for a grill.

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June 15, 2025 by Melissa