Name: Easy Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds ground beef (90/10 blend recommended; ground turkey or chicken can be used); 1 small red onion, finely chopped (yellow onion is an alternative); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free panko if needed); 1 tablespoon gochujang Korean chili paste; 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or soy substitute such as Coconut Aminos or Bragg’s liquid aminos); 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup brown sugar (light, packed); 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or substitute); 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon gochujang Korean chili paste; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and is irresistibly comforting, let me introduce you to this Easy Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe. Perfectly seasoned ground beef meatballs are baked to juicy perfection and then coated with a glossy, sweet-spicy Korean BBQ glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, this recipe is straightforward, fun to make, and delivers authentic Korean-inspired taste without the fuss. Trust me, these meatballs have quickly become a staple in my kitchen and will soon be in yours too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with various small glass and white bowls arranged neatly. On the right, there is a larger glass bowl filled with raw ground meat in pink and red tones. Around it, smaller bowls contain chopped red onions in purple and white, light brown fine powder, and a dark liquid. Other bowls hold finely minced yellow garlic, green chopped spring onions, a whole brown egg, white salt, a mix of colorful peppercorns in a wooden bowl, beige sesame seeds, a reddish-brown thick paste, and a white powder in a wooden scoop. A white round garlic bulb and a wooden salt spoon rest nearby, creating a clean and organized cooking ingredient display photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Easy Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component enhances the final dish, from adding moisture and texture to deepening the overall flavor profile, ensuring your meatballs are juicy, tender, and packed with umami.

1 ½ pounds ground beef: I prefer 90/10 lean-to-fat ratio for juicy meatballs, but you can swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
1 small red onion: Finely chopped for a subtle sweetness and crunch; yellow onion works fine if you don’t have red.
2 cloves garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds that essential punch of savory aroma and depth.
1 large egg: Lightly beaten to bind the meatballs together and keep them tender.
1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs: These help maintain a light texture; use gluten-free if needed.
1 tablespoon gochujang Korean chili paste: The star ingredient, delivering the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and fermented flavor.
2 teaspoons fresh ginger: Minced fresh ginger brightens the flavor with a hint of zesty warmth.
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Adds a salty, savory backbone without overpowering the other flavors.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right bit of subtle heat and complexity.
¼ cup brown sugar: Light and packed for a rich sweetness that complements the spicy glaze.
1 teaspoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the glaze so it clings beautifully to the meatballs.
1 teaspoon sesame seeds: A nutty garnish that adds a final touch of texture and visual appeal.
2 green onions: Chopped fresh to sprinkle on top for a crisp, mild onion finish.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Easy Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This sets the stage for perfectly baked meatballs that won’t lose their shape.

Step 2: Combine Meatball Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, gather your ground beef, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, panko breadcrumbs, gochujang, minced fresh ginger, soy sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix gently just until combined. Remember to be careful not to overwork the meat; overmixing leads to dense, tough meatballs rather than tender bites.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Grab a handful of the mixture and roll it into golf ball-sized meatballs. Using your hands or a medium cookie scoop can help keep the sizes consistent so they cook evenly. Place each meatball with some space between them on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Slide your tray into the hot oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. The goal is to get the meatballs cooked through with a slight golden crust forming on the outside. This baking method keeps them juicy without needing to stand over a pan.

Step 5: Make the Korean BBQ Glaze

While the meatballs bake, prepare your glaze. In a small saucepan, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, cornstarch, and gochujang. Place over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat once the glaze is shiny and smooth.

Step 6: Glaze and Garnish the Meatballs

Once out of the oven, brush each meatball generously with the glaze, letting that sticky, sweet-spicy sauce coat their surfaces. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.

How to Serve Easy Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe

Rows of round meatballs are placed on a white marbled surface covered with foil. The meatballs have a shiny orange-brown sauce coating them evenly. In the middle of the image, a gray silicone brush held by a woman's hand is spreading sauce over one meatball. The sauce looks thick and smooth, covering each meatball with a glossy layer. The meatballs are evenly spaced, creating a neat grid pattern. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding freshly chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds not only brightens the appearance but also layers in subtle, toasty notes and a bit of crunch. If you want an extra pop, a drizzle of sriracha or a squeeze of lime juice on top can elevate the flavors further.

Side Dishes

These meatballs shine when paired with fluffy jasmine rice or sticky white rice, as they soak up the delicious Korean BBQ glaze. For something lighter, serve alongside a crisp Asian-style slaw or steamed vegetables like bok choy or broccoli to balance the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your Easy Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe into fantastic party bites by skewering them with toothpicks and serving with a dipping sauce. You can also slide them into slider buns with a smear of spicy mayo for a fun twist that’s perfect for gatherings or casual dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal taste just as good, if not better.

Freezing

Want to make this recipe ahead of time? Freeze unglazed meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes, and then glaze as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, place the meatballs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power but be careful not to dry them out. Reapply some glaze before serving to restore that sticky deliciousness.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Just be mindful that leaner meats can dry out faster, so watch your cooking time closely and avoid overmixing.

What if I can’t find gochujang?

If you don’t have access to gochujang, you can try a mix of miso paste and chili garlic sauce as a substitute. It won’t be exactly the same but will bring some similar umami and heat to the dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Always double-check your gochujang brand for any gluten-containing ingredients.

How spicy are these meatballs?

The heat level is moderate thanks to gochujang’s balance of sweetness and spice. If you prefer milder meatballs, reduce the amount of chili paste slightly or swap for a milder sauce.

Can I make these meatballs on the stovetop?

Yes! Simply pan-fry them in a little oil over medium heat, turning often to brown all sides and cook through. Baking is hands-off and easier for larger batches, but stovetop cooking works great for quick meals.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe is one of those rare dishes that manages to feel special yet is surprisingly simple to prepare. The combination of hearty meatballs with that incredible sweet and spicy glaze is a total showstopper. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own—whether for a cozy dinner or your next party! Once you experience these mouthwatering bites, I promise they’ll become a favorite go-to in your recipe collection just as they have in mine.

Easy Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need