Dinner

Korean-Inspired Kimchi Bulgogi Cheesesteak Recipe

ByMariam Harutyunyan March 10, 2026March 10, 2026

Introduction

This Korean-Inspired Kimchi Bulgogi Cheesesteak is a flavorful twist on the classic sandwich. Combining tender marinated beef, spicy kimchi, and melted cheese, it offers a unique fusion that’s both savory and satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal with a punch of bold flavors.

The image shows two halves of a sandwich stacked on a white plate, placed on white marbled texture. The sandwich has a golden brown crusty bread with a thick, soft interior. Inside, there are two visible layers: the bottom and top layers contain cooked ground meat mixed with sautéed onions and small green herbs, with melted cheese throughout that appears creamy and slightly stringy, melting into the meat mixture. The colors range from light brown bread, dark caramelized onions, green herbs, and white melted cheese. The sandwich halves are positioned close together, clear and detailed. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
1 cup kimchi, chopped

1 medium yellow onion, sliced
1 cup bell peppers (any color), sliced

4 slices provolone or American cheese
2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce

1 tbsp sesame oil
2 tsp vegetable oil
Optional: minced garlic and sugar for marinade

Instructions

Step 1: Slice the beef sirloin, yellow onion, and bell peppers into thin strips.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, and if using, minced garlic and a pinch of sugar. Add the sliced beef and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 3: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the onions and bell peppers until tender, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Push the cooked veggies to one side of the skillet. Add the marinated beef to the empty side and cook until browned, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Mix the chopped kimchi into the skillet with the beef and veggies. Cook for another 2 minutes to combine flavors.
Step 6: Place the bulgogi and vegetable mixture onto toasted hoagie rolls. Top with slices of provolone or American cheese, then broil for about 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add a drizzle of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the marinade or directly on the sandwich.
If you prefer a milder flavor, rinse the kimchi briefly to tone down its spiciness.
Substitute sirloin with ribeye or flank steak for a different texture and flavor.

Try topping with scallions or sesame seeds for added crunch and aroma.

Storage

Store any leftover bulgogi mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling the sandwich again. For best texture, toast fresh rolls and melt new cheese when serving.