This Easy Korean Steak Sandwich packs a tasty punch with juicy beef marinated in sweet soy sauce, topped with crunchy veggies. It’s a delicious mix of flavors that will excite your taste buds!
Making these sandwiches is a fun way to spice up your lunch! I love loading mine with extra kimchi for a little kick. Trust me, it’s hard to eat just one! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Thinly sliced ribeye or flank steak is perfect for this sandwich. If you’re looking for a leaner option, sirloin works well too and is more budget-friendly!
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter touch, or switch it with tamari if you’re gluten-free! The balance of sweet and salty is key here.
Brown Sugar: This gives a nice sweetness. If you prefer, honey or maple syrup can also be used as substitutes.
Gochujang: Essential for the authentic Korean flavor, but if you can’t find it, Sriracha is a good alternative. Just adjust the amount based on your heat preference!
Vegetables: Feel free to mix up the veggies! You can add cucumbers or carrots for an extra crunch. If you’re not a fan of spice, skip the jalapeño!
How Do I Marinate and Cook the Steak Perfectly?
The marination process is key for juicy and flavorful steak. Mix your marinade ingredients and soak the steak for at least 15 minutes, but an hour is better if you have time. When cooking, make sure your skillet is hot enough, so the meat gets good browning without steaming.
- Heat the skillet with oil until it’s shimmering.
- Add the steak in a single layer, cooking it in batches if needed. Cook only until browned; overcooking can lead to toughness.
After cooking, let the steak rest for a few minutes before assembling your sandwich. This helps retain its juices!
Easy Korean Steak Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak and Marinade:
- 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye or flank steak
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
For the Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices thick bread (Texas toast or sourdough works well)
- 4 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste) or Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or neutral oil for cooking)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for cooking, totaling around 30-35 minutes. It’s quick and perfect for a delicious weeknight meal or a tasty weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Steak:
In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add the thinly sliced steak to the bowl and mix well, ensuring all pieces are coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Cook the Steak:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated steak to the skillet. Cook the steak for about 3–4 minutes, or until it is browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they are slightly softened but still crispy. If you like heat, toss in the sliced jalapeño and mix for another minute.
4. Make the Spicy Mayo:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and gochujang (or Sriracha) to create a spicy sauce. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it!
5. Toast the Bread:
Toast the bread slices in a pan or toaster until they are golden and crispy. This adds texture to your sandwich and keeps it from getting soggy.
6. Assemble the Sandwich:
Spread a generous amount of the spicy mayo on one slice of the toasted bread. Layer with the cooked steak, sautéed vegetables, sliced jalapeño (if using), and green onions. Top it off with a slice of cheese.
7. Grill and Serve:
Place the second slice of bread on top and press down slightly. If you want an extra crispy sandwich, grill the assembled sandwich in the skillet briefly on each side until the cheese melts and the bread crisps up even more.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish. Serve your delicious Easy Korean Steak Sandwich immediately and enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Korean Steak Sandwich
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While ribeye or flank steak is recommended for its flavor and tenderness, you can also use sirloin, skirt steak, or even chicken or tofu for a different protein option!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any sandwich leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through, or you can microwave it briefly.
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the steak and sauté the vegetables ahead of time! Just keep them stored separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, quickly assemble, toast, and enjoy your fresh sandwiches!
What Can I Serve with This Sandwich?
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or crispy chips. You can also serve it with kimchi or pickled veggies for an extra Korean touch!
