Korean BBQ Meatballs

Name: Korean BBQ Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

Highlighted under: Global Flavor Recipes

Delight in the savory and slightly sweet flavors of Korean BBQ with these delicious meatballs, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-05T15:38:21.134Z

These Korean BBQ Meatballs are a delightful fusion of flavors that bring the taste of Korean cuisine right to your table. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, they're sure to impress your family and friends!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors
Easy to make and ready in just 35 minutes
Great for entertaining or a cozy family dinner

      

The Rich Flavors of Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine is celebrated for its bold flavors and harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements. The unique combination of ingredients in these Korean BBQ meatballs embodies this essence, making them a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you're familiar with Korean food or new to it, these meatballs offer an approachable way to enjoy its diverse taste profiles.

The use of gochujang, a fermented Korean chili paste, adds a distinctive kick to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor without overwhelming the palate. This versatile ingredient is a staple in Korean cooking and brings a depth of umami that pairs wonderfully with the meatballs.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Korean BBQ meatballs are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a lively gathering with friends or enjoying a cozy dinner with family, these meatballs are sure to impress. They can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or even as part of a buffet spread.

Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for entertaining, allowing guests to indulge without the need for formal dining. Plus, they can easily be prepared in advance, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

Tips for Success

To ensure your meatballs are tender and juicy, be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture. Just combine the ingredients until they are well blended. Additionally, using fresh ingredients, like minced garlic and ginger, will elevate the flavor profile, making your meatballs even more delicious.

If you're looking to cater to different dietary preferences, feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as leaner meats may require less time in the oven.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients to make the preparation easier!

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground beef
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon brown sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for delicious meatballs!

Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.

Cook the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned.

Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and gochujang. Bring to a simmer, then add the cornstarch mixture to thicken. Stir until the sauce is glossy.

Coat the Meatballs

Once the meatballs are cooked, toss them in the sauce until well coated.

Serve

Serve the meatballs warm, garnished with additional green onions if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Korean BBQ Meatballs!

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Korean BBQ meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Lay the cooked meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months.

To reheat, simply bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave them for a quick option. Adding a splash of water or sauce while reheating can help maintain their moisture.

Serving Suggestions

These Korean BBQ meatballs can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Consider pairing them with steamed rice, which helps balance the flavors and provides a satisfying base. You can also serve them alongside pickled vegetables, which add a refreshing crunch and complement the meatballs beautifully.

For a fun twist, skewer the meatballs on bamboo sticks and serve them as meatball skewers at your next party. This makes for easy handling and a great presentation, adding an element of fun to your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well and is a leaner option!

→ How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

→ Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer.

→ What can I serve with Korean BBQ meatballs?

They pair well with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad.