Korean BBQ Beef Bowl with Corn & Creamy Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this meal comes together in about 30 minutes.
• Bold Flavors – Sweet, savory, spicy, and creamy elements make every bite exciting.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level, add veggies, or switch up the protein to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly – The balanced flavors make it a hit for kids and adults alike.
• Great for Meal Prep – Make extra and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients

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

For the Beef:

• 1 lb beef (flank steak, skirt steak, or short ribs), thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Corn:

• 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Bowl:

• 1 cup cooked rice

Directions

1. Marinate the Beef – In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), and sesame oil. Add the sliced beef and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator).
2. Cook the Beef – Grill or pan-sear the beef over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized and cooked through.
3. Cook the Corn – Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add corn, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly charred and warmed through.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce – In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, parsley, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Assemble the Bowls – Divide cooked rice between bowls. Top with grilled beef and sautéed corn, then drizzle with the creamy sauce. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours)
• Total Time: 55 minutes (including marinating)

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce.
• Extra Veggies – Add sautéed bell peppers, shredded carrots, or steamed broccoli.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
• Different Protein – Swap beef for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• Keto-Friendly – Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and serve with extra greens instead of rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating – Warm the beef and corn in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes or microwave in 30-second increments until heated through. Store the sauce separately and add it fresh when serving.
• Freezing – The marinated beef can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate the beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge. You can also cook the corn and sauce in advance for quick assembly.

What type of beef works best?

Flank steak, skirt steak, or boneless short ribs are best for Korean BBQ-style beef.

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Simply cut fresh kernels off the cob and cook them as instructed.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level is mild, but you can adjust it by adding more red pepper flakes or a spicy sauce.

Can I grill the corn instead of using a skillet?

Yes! Grilling will add a smoky, charred flavor that pairs well with the beef.

What can I serve with this bowl?

Try a side of kimchi, a fresh salad, or some steamed vegetables.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free mayo and replace sour cream with a plant-based alternative.

What other sauces go well with this dish?

Gochujang sauce, sriracha mayo, or a simple soy-ginger drizzle would all work well.

How do I thinly slice the beef?

Freeze the beef for about 30 minutes before slicing—it makes it easier to cut thin, even pieces.

Conclusion

This Korean BBQ Beef Bowl with Corn & Creamy Sauce is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this meal is sure to impress. With tender marinated beef, smoky corn, and a rich, tangy sauce, it delivers an incredible combination of textures and flavors. Try it today and customize it to make it your own!