korean bbq meatballs recipe
The Best korean bbq meatballs recipe
I have been making these Korean BBQ meatballs for my family for years now and they are always a hit. The first time I tried them I was looking for something different to serve on game day and these little bites of flavor were perfect. My kids love them because they are sweet and savory and they have that amazing sticky glaze that everyone goes crazy for.
Even my picky eater who usually avoids anything with a sauce will ask for seconds of these. What I really love about this recipe is how it brings together the bold flavors of Korean BBQ in a simple meatball form. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger creates that signature sweet and savory taste that is so addictive.
The gochujang adds a nice subtle heat that is not too spicy for the kids. It is the perfect balance of flavors that makes everyone happy. These meatballs are also incredibly versatile.
I serve them as an appetizer at parties or as a main dish with rice and steamed vegetables for a quick weeknight dinner. They are great for meal prep too because they reheat so well. The sauce thickens up and coats the meatballs perfectly making them just as delicious the next day.
I often double the batch and freeze half for those busy nights when I need something fast and tasty. From a health perspective this recipe is actually pretty balanced. The meatballs are baked not fried which cuts down on a lot of the fat.
I use lean ground beef or sometimes ground turkey and the sauce is made with simple pantry ingredients. You can control the sugar content by adjusting the brown sugar to your taste. It is a feel good meal that tastes indulgent but is made with real whole foods.
Korean BBQ Meatballs
These Korean BBQ meatballs are sweet, savory, and slightly spicy. They are baked to perfection and coated in a thick, sticky glaze that is incredibly flavorful.
🥘Ingredients
For the Meatballs
For the Korean BBQ Sauce
👨🍳Directions
5 inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Korean BBQ Meatballs Works
These Korean BBQ meatballs are a staple in my home for good reason. They are simple to make and packed with flavor that everyone loves.
Whether I am serving them at a party or for a quick dinner they always disappear fast. I love that I can make them ahead and they taste just as good the next day.
For storage I keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat them in a skillet with a little extra sauce. They also freeze beautifully so I often make a double batch.
Serve them over rice with a side of steamed broccoli or kimchi for a complete meal. These meatballs are perfect for any occasion and I know they will become a favorite in your home too.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Korean BBQ Meatballs
1. Can I make these Korean BBQ meatballs ahead of time?
Yes you can prepare the meatballs and the sauce separately up to two days in advance. Store them in the refrigerator in airtight containers. When you are ready to serve simply reheat the meatballs in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes and warm the sauce on the stove. Toss them together just before serving.
2. Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely. Ground pork or ground chicken work very well in this recipe. If you use ground chicken you may want to add a little olive oil to keep the meatballs moist. Ground turkey is also a good option but make sure to use a lean blend so they do not dry out.
3. Is there a substitute for gochujang?
If you cannot find gochujang you can substitute with sriracha or sambal oelek mixed with a little extra brown sugar. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious. You can also use a combination of tomato paste and red pepper flakes for a milder version.
4. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or additional sauce. Cover and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave them in 30 second intervals.
5. Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes these meatballs freeze very well. Let them cool completely then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 3 months. To serve thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the sauce.