If you love bold, savory flavors packed into tender little bites, then this Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to dish. Imagine juicy meatballs coated in a luscious, sticky sauce that perfectly balances sweet and umami notes, with just a hint of ginger and garlic to keep things exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or craving a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these meatballs bring that amazing Korean BBQ vibe straight to your kitchen. I promise, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing the rich, layered taste of this Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe. Each component, from fresh herbs to pantry staples, plays a key role in crafting the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color in every bite.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The base of our meatballs, lean but juicy for tender results.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic depth.
- 1 scallion, finely chopped: Brightens the mixture with fresh, mild onion flavor.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the binder, keeping the meatballs perfectly tender.
- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs: Ensures a light texture without falling apart.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds: Adds a subtle nuttiness.
- 1 handful cilantro, chopped: Brings fresh herbal notes to the mix.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and balances flavors.
- Oil for baking: Prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
- 1 cup low sodium chicken or beef stock: Forms the savory base of the sauce.
- 4 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce: Adds salty umami and richness.
- 2 tablespoons runny honey: Brings sweetness and lovely glaze to the meatballs.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the sauce for that perfect coating texture.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Offers a toasty, fragrant finish.
- 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds: A sprinkle for garnish and extra crunch.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Provides a warm, slightly spicy kick in the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic powder: Amplifies the garlic flavor without overpowering.
- 1-2 scallions, finely chopped: To scatter on top, adding a fresh pop of color and flavor.
How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Start by combining the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, scallion, egg, breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything gently but thoroughly — you want the ingredients to be well combined without overworking the meat, keeping your meatballs tender and juicy once baked.
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Meatballs
Next, preheat your oven and lightly oil a baking sheet to prevent sticking. Form the meat mixture into evenly sized balls, about one-inch in diameter, and arrange them on the baking sheet. Bake them for about 15 minutes or until nicely browned and cooked through. This step locks in the flavors and gives the meatballs a beautiful exterior.
Step 3: Make the Korean BBQ Sauce
While the meatballs bake, whisk together the chicken or beef stock, soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, sesame oil, sesame seeds, ground ginger, and garlic powder in a pan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens to a glossy finish — this sauce is what transforms these meatballs from simple to utterly crave-worthy.
Step 4: Combine Meatballs and Sauce
When your meatballs are ready and piping hot from the oven, carefully toss them into the thickened sauce, ensuring each one gets fully coated in that sticky, flavorful glaze. Sprinkle over the fresh chopped scallions to add a burst of color and freshness.
How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you add that extra wow factor. I love sprinkling toasted sesame seeds and freshly chopped scallions on top of the Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe. These not only look fantastic but contribute contrasting crunch and freshness to each bite.
Side Dishes
These meatballs crave company! Serve them alongside steamed jasmine rice to soak up all that delicious sauce, or pile them on a bed of crispy lettuce leaves for a light, hands-on meal. If you want more veggies, pickled cucumbers or a crunchy Asian slaw make excellent complements.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, try offering these meatballs on toothpicks for easy nibbling—they are perfect finger foods. You could even skewer them with grilled veggies in between for an irresistible meatball kebab. Another idea is to serve them in small bowls with dipping sauce on the side, turning your Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe into an interactive and fun experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover meatballs (which I doubt will happen!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
These meatballs freeze beautifully. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months—perfect for busy days when you want a quick, flavorful meal.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the meatballs and sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to make sure the sauce stays glossy and the meatballs remain tender and juicy, almost like they were just freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use other meats for the Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional and flavorful, you can easily substitute ground turkey or pork if you prefer a lighter or different taste. Just be mindful of moisture levels and adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it necessary to bake the meatballs or can I fry them?
Both methods work well. Baking is hands-off and produces juicy meatballs with less oil, but pan-frying gives you a nice crisp on the outside. Choose your favorite based on what texture you prefer.
Can I make the sauce spicier?
Definitely! Add a bit of gochujang (Korean chili paste) or some crushed red pepper flakes while making the sauce to introduce a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory flavors.
What can I serve instead of rice with these meatballs?
If you want to switch things up, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even noodles like soba or udon are excellent alternatives that soak up the sauce just as well.
How do I prevent the meatballs from drying out?
Keep your meat mixture moist by not overworking it and using a good balance of egg and breadcrumbs. Also, cooking at the right temperature and tossing them quickly in the sauce helps them stay tender.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend enough giving this Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe a try. It’s such a wonderful dish that combines ease, flavor, and that unmistakable Korean BBQ charm in every bite. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or your next get-together, these meatballs never fail to impress. Grab your ingredients and get cooking—you’re going to love how fun and delicious this recipe is!
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Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
These Korean BBQ Meatballs combine lean ground beef with traditional Korean flavors like soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger, creating a deliciously savory and slightly sweet dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining. The meatballs are tender and packed with flavor, cooked to perfection on the stovetop and served with a luscious sauce made from low sodium stock and honey. Garnished with sesame seeds and scallions, this recipe offers an easy and satisfying way to enjoy Korean-inspired cuisine at home.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound lean ground beef (turkey or pork work too)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 scallion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 handful cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for baking or frying
Sauce
- 1 cup low sodium chicken or beef stock
- 4 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons runny honey
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic powder
- 1–2 scallions, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, finely chopped scallion, egg, breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated to create the meatball mixture.
- Form and cook the meatballs: Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil to prevent sticking. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce and combine: In the same skillet, combine the low sodium stock, soy sauce, runny honey, cornstarch, sesame oil, ground ginger, and dried garlic powder. Whisk the sauce ingredients together and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sauce thickens. Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet and coat them in the sauce. Cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or pork for beef for a leaner or different flavor profile.
- Adjust the honey amount to taste for more or less sweetness.
- Serve these meatballs with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan while cooking the meatballs to ensure even browning.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free soy sauce.
