I’m pretty sure this recipe is the mother of all toasties! The juiciness of the steak combined with the bold flavor of gochujang and garlic, all packed into a toastie for the ultimate combination of flavor. This might just be the best high protein and healthy steak sandwich I’ve ever eaten!
There’s something exceptionally satiating about the sweet-salty heat of Korean BBQ — the rich umami and smoky notes that seem too indulgent to be healthy. What if I told you that you can have all that flavor and still hit your macros?
Healthy Korean BBQ Beef Sandwiches — a lightened-up twist on a classic favorite. These sandwiches are made with lean beef, a naturally sweetened BBQ sauce, and crisp bell peppers. These sandwiches are sweet, spicy, and nutritious. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a healthy weekend lunch.
What Makes These Sandwiches Healthy?
Traditional Korean BBQ dishes can be high in sugar and fat. In this version, we’re:
- Using grass fed lean sirloin or flank steak instead of fattier cuts.
- Swapping refined sugar with Apple.
- Loading the sandwiches up with fresh bell peppers for crunch and nutrients.
- Serving it on Hero Whole Grain Bread (or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option).
Ingredients (Serves 2)
For the Korean BBQ Beef:
- 1 lb lean beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tbsp gochujang
- 1 apple, grated
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices Hero whole grain sandwich bread (or large romaine leaves for wraps)
- 2 bell pepper, sliced
Instructions
1. Cook the Beef
In a bowl of an Instant Pot, combine the gochujang, apple, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Add the sliced beef and toss to coat. Pressure cook the beef for 50 minutes, then letting the steam release for an additional 10 minutes.
2. Cook the Bell Peppers
Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until browned. Set aside for serving.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches
Lightly toast your sliced bread. Pile on the Korean BBQ beef, then top with stir fried bell peppers.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Add any additional condiment, grab a napkin (trust me), and dig in!
Tips & Variations
- Low-carb? Serve in lettuce wraps or collard greens.
- Meal prep-friendly: Keep meat and veggies separate until ready to assemble.
- More heat? Add extra gochujang or red chili flakes.
- Vegan option: Use grilled tofu or tempeh and the same sauce!
These Korean BBQ beef sandwiches are the ultimate fusion of sweet and heat. Whether you’re feeding your post gym gains or prepping lunch for the week, this recipe hits all the right notes — bold, balanced, and totally satisfying.
Tag your version on social media with #HealthyKBBQSandwich — I’d love to see your take!
Leave a Reply