Anastasia Rice November 11, 2025

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Korean BBQ Meatballs

Name: Korean BBQ Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; For the spicy mayo dip:; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon sriracha; 1 teaspoon lemon juice

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The sizzle of tender meatballs mingling with the rich, savory aroma of Korean BBQ sauce creates an irresistible atmosphere in your kitchen. Korean BBQ Meatballs are not just a dish; they are an experience that invites family and friends to gather around the table. Whether it’s a lively weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend get-together, these meatballs promise to delight your taste buds and warm your heart.

Why This Korean BBQ Meatballs Works

Korean BBQ Meatballs offer a delightful fusion of flavors that combine sweet, savory, and a touch of heat. The ground beef, tender and juicy, is perfectly complemented by the hint of sesame oil and a kick from the ginger and garlic. You’ll find that these meatballs are not only satisfying but versatile, making them perfect for any occasion.

Here are a few reasons to love this dish:

Bursting with flavor
Quick to prepare and cook
Perfect for gatherings or as a snack
Easy to customize for various tastes
A delicious way to enjoy lean protein

Gather These Ingredients

For these delectable Korean BBQ Meatballs, the right ingredients are essential for creating that authentic taste. Instead of using traditional pork, we’ll be swapping in lean ground beef, ensuring that your meal remains wholesome yet delicious. Turkey bacon will provide the same smoky essence without the excess calories. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound ground beef
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the spicy mayo dip:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sriracha
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Step by Step

Creating these mouthwatering Korean BBQ Meatballs is a simple and enjoyable process that fills your home with irresistible aromas. Follow these steps to bring your meatballs to life:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a pan over medium heat for frying. The anticipation of the satisfying sizzle will soon fill the air.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, grated ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until everything is well combined. Smell the fragrant mixture as you work, and let your senses guide you.
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about an inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet if you plan to bake, or set them aside if you intend to fry.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or cook in your heated pan, turning occasionally, until the meatballs are browned and cooked through. They will develop a beautiful, golden crust while remaining juicy inside.
To make the spicy mayo dip, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, and lemon juice in a small bowl. This tangy dip with a kick perfectly complements the rich meatballs.
Serve the hot meatballs with the spicy mayo dip on the side. The combination of flavors makes each bite simply irresistible.

Prep time: ~10 minutes, Cook time: ~20 minutes, Total: ~30 minutes, Servings: ~4, Estimated Kcal: ~350 per serving.

Plan Ahead

For busy weeknights or when hosting a crowd, you can prepare these Korean BBQ Meatballs in advance. Mix the meatball ingredients and form the meatballs up to 24 hours ahead. Simply cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. You can also bake them ahead of time and then store them, reheating just before serving.

How to Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with any leftover Korean BBQ Meatballs, don’t worry! They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer where they will keep for about three months. When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat in the oven or skillet over low heat, ensuring they warm through without drying out. They’ll smell just as good the next day!

Perfect Pairings

Korean BBQ Meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and dishes. Consider serving them with:

Steamed rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal
Fresh salad with a light vinaigrette
Pickled vegetables to add a tangy crunch
Noodles tossed in sesame oil for a comforting touch
A platter of sliced cucumbers and carrots for dipping

Flavor Twists and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Korean BBQ Meatballs! Here are some fun variations to consider:

Ground Chicken: Substitute ground beef for ground chicken for a lighter option.
Spice Level: Adjust the sriracha in the mayo dip or add more red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for extra heat.
Vegetable Add-ins: Shredded carrots or finely chopped bell peppers can add extra flavor and nutrition.
Herb Infusion: Try mixing in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fresh twist on the classic flavor.
Asian-inspired Sauces: Instead of mayonnaise, use plain Greek yogurt mixed with wasabi for a unique creaminess.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To ensure your Korean BBQ Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Make sure to mix the ingredients gently, as over-mixing can lead to tougher meatballs.
Space the meatballs evenly on the baking sheet or frying pan to ensure they cook evenly.
Use a meat thermometer to check that they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps retain their juices and enhances flavor.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and works nicely in this recipe. It will provide a leaner option while maintaining delicious flavors.
How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Simply replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, or use ground oats as a binder instead.
Is there a vegetarian version?
You could make a vegetarian variation by using plant-based meat alternatives or beans as a base, adjusting the spices to suit.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Absolutely, baking is a healthier method and will still produce delicious, moist meatballs.
What dips can accompany these meatballs?
While we suggest a spicy mayo dip, you might also enjoy a simple soy sauce and sesame oil drizzle, or even a sweet chili sauce.

Final Thoughts

Korean BBQ Meatballs are more than just a meal; they are a celebration of flavors and an invitation to gather with loved ones. With their comforting taste, delightful texture, and a spicy kick, these meatballs are destined to become a cherished favorite in your home. So roll up your sleeves and prepare to savor every bite—this dish is sure to bring smiles to your table!

Korean BBQ Meatballs

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free Option Available

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Description

A delightful fusion of flavors, these Korean BBQ Meatballs are tender, juicy, and bursting with a savory aroma, perfect for gatherings and weeknight dinners.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a pan over medium heat for frying.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, grated ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined.
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about an inch in diameter.
Place them on a baking sheet if baking, or set aside if frying.
Bake for about 20 minutes or cook in your heated pan, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
For the spicy mayo dip, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
Serve the hot meatballs with the spicy mayo dip on the side.

Notes

You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for about three months.

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