Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe

If you love the irresistible flavors of Korean cuisine but want something quick and fuss-free, this Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe will become your new go-to. Juicy, tender meatballs get a sticky, sweet-savory glaze that perfectly balances soy, brown sugar, and sesame aromas, delivering big, bold flavors with every bite. Perfect as a party appetizer, a weeknight dinner, or a tasty snack, these meatballs are an absolute crowd-pleaser that bring a little Korean BBQ magic straight to your table without the hassle of firing up a grill.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients. Each one plays a key role: ground beef for richness, garlic and ginger for warmth and zing, and the glaze components that create that signature sweet and savory punch. These ingredients are easy to find but combine to create something truly special.

• 1 lb ground beef: Use good quality beef for juicy, flavorful meatballs that hold together well.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs: Adds lightness and absorbs moisture so meatballs stay tender.
• 1 egg: Acts as a binder, keeping everything perfectly mixed and cooked through.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a punch of aromatic flavor that’s essential in Korean cooking.
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated: Adds a fresh, spicy warmth that complements garlic beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Brings savory depth and umami both inside the meatballs and in the glaze.
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil: A tiny drizzle brightens the flavor with nutty, toasty notes.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all the flavors firmly.
• ¼ cup soy sauce (for glaze): The backbone of the glaze’s bold, savory character.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Creates that signature sweet contrast in the glaze.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds brightness and acidity to balance richness.
• 1 tablespoon ketchup: Provides sweetness and a subtle tang to the glaze.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for glaze): Intensifies the toasty sesame flavor in the glaze.
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water: Thickens the glaze to perfect sticky consistency.

How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the meatballs from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This little step saves time and ensures your meatballs bake evenly with a nice golden crust.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything until just combined. The key to tender meatballs is not over-mixing — blend these flavors gently so the meat stays juicy and soft.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Roll the seasoned mixture into 1-inch meatballs, aiming for even sizes so they cook uniformly. Place each one carefully on your prepared baking sheet, giving them just a bit of space to breathe so they brown nicely in the oven.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop the meatballs into your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are cooked through and beautifully browned on the outside. The aroma at this point will have you eagerly anticipating the next step!

Step 5: Make the Glaze

While the meatballs bake, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ketchup, and sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer before stirring in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the glaze thickens to a luscious, syrupy texture.

Step 6: Coat the Meatballs

Once out of the oven, immediately toss the hot meatballs in the shiny glaze until each one is fully coated. The glossy finish not only looks gorgeous but seals in all that delicious flavor with a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe

Garnishes

Add the finishing touch with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions. These simple garnishes not only add vibrant color but also a delightful crunch and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the sticky glaze.

Side Dishes

Korean BBQ meatballs are incredibly versatile. Serve them sizzling hot alongside steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa for a satisfying meal. For a lighter option, consider a crisp cucumber salad or quick kimchi to add brightness and texture. These sides help balance the richness of the meatballs perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or casual gatherings, present these meatballs on toothpicks alongside small bowls of extra glaze for dipping. Alternatively, pile them over lettuce leaves for a hand-held wrap or tuck them into slider buns with a drizzle of spicy mayo for a fun fusion twist. The Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe shines in many forms!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store cooled meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them coated in glaze before storing helps retain moisture and flavor overnight.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Place uncoated, fully cooked meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They remain fresh for up to 3 months and can be easily reheated and glazed when ready to eat.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your meatballs gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or extra glaze. This method keeps them moist and ensures the glaze stays beautifully sticky. Microwaving works in a pinch but might dry them out slightly.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can be used to make this recipe a bit lighter. Just be mindful that poultry can dry out faster, so avoid overbaking and consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or some finely chopped veggies for moisture.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe?

You can try substituting meatballs with plant-based meat alternatives or make them with lentils and mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Be sure to tweak the cooking time and texture accordingly to ensure they hold together well.

Can I make the glaze spicier?

Yes! Adding a bit of gochujang (Korean red chili paste) or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze will give it a delicious, smoky heat that elevates the traditional flavors.

What can I serve if I want to make this a full Korean-inspired meal?

Pair these meatballs with classic Korean sides like kimchi, japchae (glass noodle stir-fry), or a simple bowl of steamed rice and sautéed greens like bok choy or spinach for a well-rounded meal.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture and shape them a day in advance, then keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes meal prep super easy and lets the flavors meld beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly satisfying about homemade meatballs glazed in a sweet and savory Korean BBQ sauce. This Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe brings together comfort, convenience, and vibrant flavor in a way that’s sure to become one of your favorites too. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a delicious dinner for yourself, these meatballs deliver big on taste with minimal fuss. Give it a try, and get ready to impress everyone at your table with a dish that’s full of heart and incredible flavor.

Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings (about 20 meatballs) 1x

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Description

These Korean BBQ Meatballs are juicy and flavorful, baked to perfection and coated in a sweet and savory homemade glaze. Perfect as an appetizer or served over rice for a delicious meal in just 35 minutes.

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Ingredients

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For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Glaze:

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
2. Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Form the Meatballs: Shape the meat mixture into 1-inch diameter meatballs. Arrange them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
5. Make the Glaze: While the meatballs are baking, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ketchup, and sesame oil in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the glaze thickens to a syrupy consistency.
6. Coat the Meatballs: Remove the meatballs from the oven and gently toss them in the warm glaze to coat each meatball evenly with the sticky sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately, either over steamed rice or as a tasty appetizer.

Notes

• You can substitute ground beef with ground pork or turkey for a different flavor.
• If you prefer gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• The glaze can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before tossing with the meatballs.
• These meatballs reheat well, making them great for meal prep or entertaining.
• Adjust the level of sweetness or acidity in the glaze to your taste by tweaking the brown sugar or rice vinegar amount.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Korean