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Korean BBQ Meatballs

Sticky, savory, and slightly smoky meatballs glazed in a delicious Korean BBQ sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

Meatball Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey/chicken Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs Use gluten-free panko to make this gluten-free.
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or 1 teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch.
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated Substitute with 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger.
  • 2 green onions finely chopped Reserve some for garnish.
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Glaze Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce Use tamari for gluten-free.
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar or honey Use honey for a slightly healthier option.
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang Reduce for less heat or swap with sriracha.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted for garnish Optional: 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds and extra green onions for serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment. For pan-frying, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a thin film of neutral oil.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, panko, beaten egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, toasted sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix until just combined—avoid overworking to keep meatballs tender.
  3. Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of mixture and roll into tight, even meatballs. Place on the prepared baking sheet or directly into the hot skillet.
Cooking
  1. If baking: Bake meatballs for 12 to 15 minutes, until browned and cooked through (internal temperature 160°F for beef). If pan-frying: Cook meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, about 8 to 12 minutes until evenly browned and cooked through.
  2. While meatballs cook, make the Korean BBQ glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat combine soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, gochujang, rice vinegar, and one clove of minced garlic. Stir until sugar dissolves, then simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. When meatballs are done, toss them gently in the warm glaze to coat—use a large bowl and spoon to make sure every meatball is glossy and saucy.
  4. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions. Serve immediately.

Notes

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For freezing, freeze cooked meatballs on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge. Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth when reheating.