Easy Korean Meatballs with Sweet & Spicy BBQ Sauce

These Easy Korean Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and coated in a rich, sweet, and spicy BBQ sauce. Made with ground beef (or pork), garlic, ginger, and a bold glaze, they’re perfect for appetizers, meal prep, or serving over rice.

This recipe is easy to make, packed with umami, and great for parties or weeknight dinners. Serve them with steamed rice, noodles, or fresh veggies for a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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Ingredients for Korean Meatballs

the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground pork)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• 2 green onions, finely chopped

the Sweet & Spicy BBQ Sauce:

• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste, adjust for spice)
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil

Garnishing (Optional):

• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions
• Extra gochujang drizzle

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet or skillet
• Small saucepan
• Whisk

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, panko, egg, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and green onions.
3. Mix until well combined, but don’t overwork the meat.
4. Roll into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the baking sheet.

2. Cook the Meatballs

Baking Method (Healthier Option):

1. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Skillet Method (Extra Crispy):

1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook meatballs for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.

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3. Make the Sweet & Spicy BBQ Sauce

1. In a saucepan, whisk together ketchup, honey, soy sauce, gochujang, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and sesame oil.
2. Simmer over medium-low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring until thickened.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice if needed.

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4. Coat the Meatballs

1. Transfer cooked meatballs to a bowl.
2. Pour the sauce over and toss to coat evenly.

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5. Serve & Enjoy!

• Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
• Serve with steamed rice, noodles, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.

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Expert Tips for the Best Korean Meatballs

Use fresh garlic and ginger – Adds authentic flavor and depth.
Chill the meatballs before cooking – Helps them hold their shape.
Adjust the heat – Add extra gochujang for more spice or honey for sweetness.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the meat – This makes the meatballs dense instead of tender.
Not preheating the oven or skillet – Meatballs won’t sear properly.
Using too much sauce – Lightly coat the meatballs to keep the flavors balanced.

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Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve over steamed jasmine or sticky rice.
• Pair with a side of kimchi or pickled cucumbers.
• Skewer meatballs onto toothpicks for party appetizers.

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How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Freezing:

• Freeze cooked meatballs without sauce for up to 2 months.
• Reheat and toss in fresh sauce before serving.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free soy sauce and panko.
• Try a different protein – Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Add veggies – Mix in grated carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition.

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What to Serve with Korean Meatballs

• Garlic butter green beans or steamed broccoli
• Korean-style fried rice or sesame noodles
• A fresh Asian slaw with sesame dressing

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these meatballs in advance?

Yes! Prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

What can I use instead of gochujang?

Sriracha or chili garlic sauce works, but gochujang adds authentic depth.

Can I make these meatballs without breadcrumbs?

Yes! Substitute with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly version.

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Conclusion

These Easy Korean Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and coated in a rich sweet-spicy sauce, making them perfect for any occasion! Whether served as an appetizer, party snack, or over rice, they’re sure to impress your family and friends.

Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more bold and delicious recipes!

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Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 280 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings).

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Serves: 4

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