Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe

If you love bold flavors and crave a dish that delivers a perfect bite every time, these Korean BBQ Meatballs are about to become your new favorite. Juicy, tender meatballs infused with a harmonious blend of garlic, ginger, and that iconic Korean chili paste known as gochujang create an irresistible combination. Each bite offers a balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes that will have you reaching for seconds and sharing this recipe with everyone you know. Whether for a casual dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, Korean BBQ Meatballs bring warmth and excitement to your table in the most delicious way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but incredibly essential to capturing the authentic flavor and texture that make Korean BBQ Meatballs so delightful. Every component, from the savory soy sauce to the spicy gochujang, works together to create a lively, mouthwatering experience.

• Ground beef: The foundation for juicy, meaty meatballs with rich flavor.
• Garlic: Freshly minced for a pungent aroma that boosts every bite.
• Ginger: Grated to add a subtle zing and freshness that complements the spice.
• Green onions: Finely chopped for a mild crunch and hint of sharpness.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to keep the meatballs moist and together.
• Breadcrumbs: Adds structure and prevents the meatballs from falling apart.
• Soy sauce: Brings umami depth and salty sweetness.
• Sesame oil: Infuses a nutty richness that is signature in Korean cooking.
• Gochujang (Korean chili paste): Provides that essential spicy kick and a touch of sweetness.
• Brown sugar: Balances the heat with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Rice vinegar: Adds subtle acidity to brighten the flavors.
• Cornstarch (optional): Helps bind meatballs more firmly, especially if your mixture feels wet.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all other flavors.
• Toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkle on top for a toasty crunch and visual appeal.
• Chopped scallions: A fresh garnish that brings vibrant color and mild oniony taste.
• Spicy Mayo Dip ingredients: Mayonnaise, gochujang, lime juice, and honey combine to create a creamy, tangy sauce that pairs wonderfully with the meatballs.

How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs

Step 1: Preparing the Mixture

Start by gathering your ingredients so everything is within reach. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with the minced garlic, grated ginger, and finely chopped green onions. Then, crack in the egg, add the breadcrumbs, soy sauce, sesame oil, and the star of the dish — gochujang. Stir in the brown sugar and rice vinegar. Season everything with salt and black pepper to taste. If you want extra assurance that your meatballs will hold together nicely, sprinkle in the cornstarch. Mix gently but thoroughly, just until everything is evenly combined without overworking the meat, to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Shaping the Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into uniform 1-inch meatballs. Keeping them around this size ensures they cook evenly and make for perfect bite-sized treats. Place each meatball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and create an easy cleanup.

Step 3: Baking to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pop the tray of meatballs in and bake for about 18 to 20 minutes, until they are fully cooked through and beautifully browned on the outside. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time hints at just how amazing these Korean BBQ Meatballs will taste.

Step 4: Preparing the Spicy Mayo Dip

While your meatballs are baking, whip up the spicy mayo dip to add a creamy, cooling contrast. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, gochujang, lime juice, and honey until smooth and creamy. This dip is a fantastic complement to the savory, spicy meatballs and will quickly become a favorite condiment to have on hand.

How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs

Garnishes

To really elevate the presentation and flavor, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the warm meatballs right before serving. Add chopped scallions to bring freshness, color, and that lovely mild onion bite. These simple garnishes not only make the dish look irresistible but also add subtle textural contrasts that our taste buds love.

Side Dishes

Korean BBQ Meatballs shine as the star of a meal but pair beautifully with light and fresh side dishes too. Consider serving them alongside steamed jasmine rice or fluffy Korean sticky rice to soak up any delicious sauce. A crunchy cucumber salad dressed with a sesame-soy vinaigrette or quick-pickled radishes is a genius way to balance the richness with crisp, tangy notes.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or refresh your weeknight rotation, try threading these meatballs onto skewers with pieces of bell peppers and onions for a colorful Korean BBQ-inspired kebab. Or pile them into lettuce cups topped with a drizzle of the spicy mayo and extra scallions for a fun and interactive bite that’s bursting with flavor in every mouthful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Korean BBQ Meatballs keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re perfect for quick lunches or a speedy dinner—just add a fresh garnish and reheat gently to revive their deliciousness.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked meatballs by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way they won’t stick together. Frozen Korean BBQ Meatballs last up to 3 months and make for a convenient, flavorful meal any day.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the meatballs in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven method helps keep that delightful outer texture intact. Serve with fresh garnishes and the spicy mayo dip for a quick meal that tastes like it’s freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can be used for a leaner alternative. Just be mindful that they may require a bit more seasoning or moisture, so consider adding an extra egg or some grated vegetables to keep the meatballs juicy.

How spicy are these Korean BBQ Meatballs?

The spiciness mainly comes from the gochujang and the optional spicy mayo dip. Gochujang has a mild to medium heat with a sweet undertone, so the heat is balanced rather than overwhelming. You can adjust the amount of gochujang to suit your heat preference.

Can I make these meatballs without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can omit breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version and use alternatives like crushed rice crackers or ground oats to help bind the meatballs. Just remember that breadcrumbs also add softness, so your meatballs might be a bit denser without them.

Is it necessary to bake the meatballs? Can they be fried?

Baking is easier and less messy, and it yields evenly cooked meatballs with a lovely browned exterior. However, you can pan-fry the meatballs in a little oil over medium heat until cooked through, which adds a wonderful caramelized crust and faster cooking time.

What can I serve with Korean BBQ Meatballs for an easy party appetizer?

Serve these meatballs toothpick-style with small dipping bowls of the spicy mayo. Pair with a bright cucumber salad or pickled veggies to balance flavors, and add some steamed rice or noodles on the side for guests who want a fuller bite.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting and exciting about Korean BBQ Meatballs that just makes you want to smile after every bite. Their bold, layered flavors combined with easy preparation make them perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Don’t wait to give this recipe a try — you might just find yourself making these irresistible meatballs again and again, sharing the love one flavorful bite at a time.

Print