The sizzle of marinated steak hitting a hot grill can turn any mundane evening into a flavorful experience. Korean BBQ Steak Bowls are one of those magical dishes that effortlessly combine the tenderness of perfectly cooked beef with the crunch of fresh veggies and the heartiness of rice. This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights, as it’s not only quick to whip up, but also entirely customizable for your taste preferences—whether you’re a fan of beef, chicken, or even tofu. The balance of savory, sweet, and fresh ingredients creates a delightful harmony that will have everyone asking for seconds. Curious how to bring this delicious bowl to life in your kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe that makes family dinners feel like a special occasion! Why make Korean BBQ Steak Bowls? Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Customizable Delight: Tailor each bowl to your liking by swapping out proteins or adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or snap peas. Flavor Explosion: The delectable marinade infuses the steak with savory sweetness, complemented by fresh and crunchy toppings. Healthful Choice: Packed with protein from the steak and fiber from the vegetables, these bowls are both filling and nutritious. Crowd-Pleasing Presentation: The vibrant colors and textures create a stunning meal that’s sure to impress family and friends, making it a great option for gatherings! For other inspired recipes, check out my Spicy Korean Ramen or Korean Fried Chicken. Korean BBQ Steak Bowls Ingredients • Perfect elements for a flavorful meal. For the Steak Marinade Flank Steak – The star protein, marinated to achieve tender, juicy bites; feel free to swap with skirt steak or chicken for a different twist. Soy Sauce – Provides essential savory depth; use tamari for a gluten-free version. Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty richness; you can substitute with olive oil for a lighter flavor. Brown Sugar – Balances out salty and savory notes; honey or maple syrup are great natural sweeteners here. Garlic (minced) – Freshly minced garlic elevates the flavor with aromatic notes; always opt for fresh when possible. Fresh Ginger (grated) – Infuses the marinade with a warm, zesty kick; ground ginger can be used as a backup but with less quantity. Rice Vinegar – Brightens the overall flavor; apple cider vinegar will also work well as a substitute. Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – A great way to introduce heat to the dish; adjust the amount to suit your spice preference. For the Bowl Assembly Cooked Rice (2 cups) – The comforting base of your bowl; choose white for softness or brown for a nutty texture. Kimchi (1 cup) – Adds a probiotic-rich tang and crunch; leave it out for a milder option. Cucumber (sliced) – Offers a refreshing crunch; consider swapping in radishes for extra zing. Carrots (julienned) – Bring sweetness and vibrant color to your dish; shredded carrots can save you time. Avocado (sliced) – Adds a creamy element that enhances taste; substitute with sliced radish if watching fat intake. Green Onions (chopped) – Provides a mild onion flavor and nice garnish; chives or shallots are suitable alternatives. Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle for a touch of nuttiness and visual appeal; omit if you’re missing this ingredient. Fresh Cilantro (optional) – Introduces a fresh, herbal note; feel free to skip if it’s not your favorite herb. These ingredients come together beautifully to create Korean BBQ Steak Bowls that are not only appetizing but also customizable to fit a variety of tastes. Enjoy! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean BBQ Steak Bowls Step 1: Marinate the Steak In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes until well combined. Add the sliced flank steak to the marinade, ensuring it’s well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor infusion. Step 2: Prepare the Rice While the steak marinates, cook your rice according to the package instructions, using either white or brown rice based on your preference. For brown rice, allow about 40-45 minutes for cooking, while white rice typically takes around 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and keep warm until you’re ready to assemble your Korean BBQ Steak Bowls. Step 3: Cook the Steak Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes until hot. Remove the flank steak from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. Cook the steak for 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness, until it develops a nice sear and reaches an internal temperature of 130°F. Transfer to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices. Step 4: Assemble Bowls Begin assembling your Korean BBQ Steak Bowls by placing a generous scoop of warm rice at the bottom of each bowl. Thinly slice the rested steak against the grain and arrange it over the rice. Add kimchi, sliced cucumbers, julienned carrots, and avocado on top, creating a colorful and vibrant presentation. Step 5: Garnish and Serve Finish your Korean BBQ Steak Bowls by sprinkling chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for added flavor and texture. For an extra touch of freshness, add cilantro if desired. Serve immediately while warm, allowing everyone to enjoy a delightful crunch and savory bite in every scoop! Make Ahead Options Korean BBQ Steak Bowls are perfect for meal prep and can save you precious time on busy nights! You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it’s packed with flavor. While the steak marinates, feel free to cook the rice and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the marinated steak and slice it against the grain. To maintain the dish’s quality, keep the prepped ingredients in airtight containers, and assemble the bowls just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant. Enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze Korean BBQ Steak Bowls Fridge: Store leftover Korean BBQ Steak Bowls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and ready for quick meals! Freezer: If you plan to freeze, keep the components separate. Store the marinated steak in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months; defrost thoroughly before cooking. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the steak on a skillet over medium heat to avoid toughness. Microwave the rice and vegetables until warmed through, ensuring a delicious meal. Assembly Tip: For the best texture, avoid freezing assembled bowls, as the vegetables may become soggy upon thawing. What to Serve with Korean BBQ Steak Bowls A feast of colors and tastes awaits when you’re ready to elevate your Korean BBQ Steak Bowls into a memorable meal experience. Crispy Garlic Green Beans: The crunch of these garlic-infused beans adds a fresh and vibrant contrast, complementing the rich flavors of the steak. Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw: This crunchy side brings a balance of sweetness and acidity that beautifully contrasts with the savory steak and adds a delightful crunch. Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice: For an extra kick, a side of kimchi fried rice turns up the flavor profile while staying true to the Korean theme of your meal. Savory Miso Soup: Warm and comforting, miso soup provides a subtle umami depth that pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of the steak and marinade. Zesty Cucumber Salad: Lightly pickled cucumbers offer a refreshing crunch to cleanse the palate between bites of indulgent steak, enhancing that delicious contrast you crave. Pineapple Slices or a Fruit Salad: These sweet, juicy additions provide a refreshing end to your meal while enhancing the overall flavor journey with their tropical notes and natural sweetness. Fruity Soju Cocktails: Pair your bowls with a light, fruity soju cocktail, which adds an aromatic and refreshing element, creating the perfect drink to round out your dinner. Chocolate Mocha Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse delivers a luxurious finish, offering a silky texture that follows the delightful savory experience of your meal. Each of these sides promises to enhance your dining adventure, making your Korean BBQ Steak Bowls an absolute showstopper at the table! Expert Tips Marinade Magic: Allow the flank steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight; this ensures the flavors meld beautifully into your Korean BBQ Steak Bowls. Perfect Heat: Preheat your grill or pan to medium-high heat before cooking the steak; a hot surface creates a great sear while keeping the meat juicy. Slicing Wisely: Always slice the steak against the grain to maintain tenderness. This small but crucial step makes a difference in your final dish. Rice Alternatives: Experiment with different rice varieties! Quinoa or cauliflower rice can be excellent substitutes for those looking to lower carbs while still enjoying Korean BBQ Steak Bowls. Cool Crunch: For additional freshness, try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas; they add not only crunch but also vibrant color to your bowl. Batch Cooking: Cook a larger quantity of steak and rice on the weekend for quick assembly during busy weeknights; that way, you can easily enjoy these flavorful bowls any time! Korean BBQ Steak Bowls: Customization Ideas Feel free to get creative with these bowls, transforming them into a dish that suits your cravings and dietary needs! Dairy-Free: Swap avocado with sliced radishes for a fresh crunch and lower-fat option. Plant-Based: Replace steak with tofu or tempeh, marinating them in the same sauce for a hearty vegan option. Tofu absorbs flavors beautifully and adds a wonderful texture to your bowl. Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and enjoy the same savory depth without the gluten. This simple switch makes the dish accessible for all! Extra Heat: Drizzle some sriracha over your assembled bowl for an added kick. You can also increase the red pepper flakes in the marinade for more spice. Flavor Boost: Top with a spoonful of gochujang for a savory, spicy twist. This fermented chili paste enhances the umami and adds extra depth to the dish. Texture Variety: Incorporate crunchy nuts like cashews or peanuts for a delightful contrast with the tender steak and veggies. They add delightful crunch and flavor! Fruit Addition: Sliced mango or pineapple can provide a sweet, tropical note that pairs beautifully with the savory elements. This addition takes your bowl to a whole new level of flavor. Rice Alternatives: Try quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even a hearty grain mix instead of regular rice to elevate your bowl’s nutritional profile. These alternatives offer varied textures and flavors. If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, consider trying out my Veggie Packed Steak Stir Fry or Pepper Steak Bell. Enjoy exploring new variations! Korean BBQ Steak Bowls Recipe FAQs How do I select the best flank steak? Absolutely! When choosing flank steak, look for cuts that have a nice red color and a bit of marbling. Avoid any pieces that have dark spots all over, as this could indicate age. Fresh steak should feel firm and moist but not sticky. If you prefer, skirt steak or even chicken can be good substitutes for a different eating experience. How should I store leftover Korean BBQ Steak Bowls? To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow the food to cool before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup. I often recommend separating the components, like the steak and veggies from the rice, to maintain texture and flavor. Can I freeze the components of the Korean BBQ Steak Bowls? Yes, you can! For freezing, keep the steak marinade and the steak in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To do this, marinate the steak as directed, then place it in a bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to use it, let it defrost in the refrigerator overnight. As for the rice and veggies, it’s best to freeze them separately to avoid mushiness when reheating. What should I do if my steak turns out tough? Very good question! If your steak ends up tough, it could be due to overcooking. To troubleshoot, ensure you’re cooking the steak at medium-high heat and use a meat thermometer for accuracy. For medium-rare, look for an internal temperature of about 130°F and allow the steak to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing it against the grain. This will help retain the juices and tenderness. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Absolutely! If you’re catering to specific dietary preferences, this recipe is highly customizable. For gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also easily swap out the protein for tofu or chicken. When considering allergies, make sure to check the ingredients in your sauces and kimchi, as some may contain allergens like fish or gluten. How can I make the dish less spicy if I don’t like heat? No problem! To reduce the spice level, simply omit the red pepper flakes in the marinade and leave out the kimchi if you prefer a milder dish. You can also add more mild toppings, such as sliced bell peppers or extra avocado, to balance out the flavors without overwhelming heat. Korean BBQ Steak Bowls: A Tasty Twist for Easy Weeknight Dinners Korean BBQ Steak Bowls are a delightful blend of marinated steak, fresh veggies, and rice for a quick weeknight dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsMarinating Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: KoreanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Steak Marinade1 pound Flank Steak or skirt steak or chicken1/4 cup Soy Sauce use tamari for gluten-free2 tablespoons Sesame Oil or olive oil for lighter flavor2 tablespoons Brown Sugar or honey or maple syrup2 cloves Garlic (minced) use fresh if possible1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (grated) or ground ginger in lesser quantity2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar or apple cider vinegar1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional) adjust to spice preferenceFor the Bowl Assembly2 cups Cooked Rice use white or brown rice1 cup Kimchi omit for milder option1 medium Cucumber (sliced) or radishes1 cup Carrots (julienned) shredded carrots save time1 medium Avocado (sliced) or sliced radish2 tablespoons Green Onions (chopped) or chives or shallots1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds omit if missingFresh Cilantro (optional) omit if not a favorite herb Equipment grill or skilletmedium bowlmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoons Method Marinating the SteakIn a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes until well combined. Add the sliced flank steak to the marinade, ensuring it’s well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.Preparing the RiceWhile the steak marinates, cook your rice according to package instructions. Fluff the rice with a fork and keep warm until you’re ready to assemble your bowls.Cooking the SteakPreheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the flank steak from the marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.Assembling BowlsPlace a generous scoop of warm rice at the bottom of each bowl. Thinly slice the rested steak against the grain and arrange it over the rice. Add kimchi, sliced cucumbers, julienned carrots, and avocado on top.Garnishing and ServingSprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top. Optionally, add cilantro. Serve immediately while warm. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg NotesAllow the steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes or ideally overnight for best flavor. Slice against the grain for tenderness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
