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Korean BBQ Meatballs

Irresistibly Juicy Korean BBQ Meatballs You’ll Love

These Korean BBQ Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and a delightful dish that will impress any crowd.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: High Protein Dinner
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb ground beef or beef/pork blend provides a savory base that keeps the meatballs juicy and flavorful.
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs helps bind the mixture while adding texture.
  • 1 large egg acts as a binding agent to hold the meatballs together.
  • 2 cloves garlic adds aromatic depth that infuses flavor throughout.
  • 2 green onions brings a fresh, crisp flavor that brightens each bite.
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce adds umami richness essential for Korean BBQ meatballs.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil gives a nutty background note that enhances the dish.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt enhances all other flavors, ensuring a balanced taste.
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper adds a hint of warmth and spice.
For the Glaze
  • ¼ cup brown sugar caramelizes and gives that sweet, sticky texture everyone loves.
  • 2 tablespoon gochujang adds a delightful kick and authentic Korean flavor to the glaze.
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for glaze) complements the gochujang with savory notes.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for glaze) rounds out the glaze with its distinct flavor.
For the Drizzle
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise creates a creamy base for the drizzle.
  • 1 teaspoon gochujang (for mayo) injects a warm spice into the creamy dressing.
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice or water thins the mayo for a perfect drizzle consistency.
For Cooking and Garnishing
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil used for cooking the meatballs, ensuring a nice sear.
  • sesame seeds (optional garnish) adds an elegant touch and a nutty crunch.
  • chili flakes (optional garnish) for those who desire an extra kick of heat.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • skillet
  • Saucepan
  • parchment paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, add 1 lb of ground beef or a beef/pork blend, along with ½ cup of breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 2 minced cloves of garlic, and 2 finely chopped green onions. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, then sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
  2. Using your hands, take small portions of the meat mixture and roll them into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs. Place each meatball onto a parchment-lined tray, ensuring they are spaced apart. Aim for about 20 meatballs to enjoy as part of your Korean BBQ Meatballs feast!
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for approximately 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through, or bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes for a healthier option. The meatballs should have an internal temperature of 160°F.
  4. While the Korean BBQ Meatballs are cooking, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan, combine ¼ cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of gochujang, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 3–5 minutes.
  5. Once the meatballs are cooked to perfection, transfer them to the saucepan with the glaze. Gently toss the meatballs in the sauce until evenly coated, ensuring each meatball is enveloped in the delicious blend of flavors.
  6. In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of gochujang, and 1 teaspoon of lime juice or water to thin the consistency. Stir until smooth and creamy, adjusting the thickness as desired.
  7. Drizzle the gochujang mayo generously over the glazed meatballs to give them a pop of flavor and presentation. For a beautiful finish, garnish with additional chopped green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and chili flakes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 12gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 330mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Avoid overmixing your meatball ingredients to keep them tender; mix just until combined for best texture. Ensure all meatballs are similar in size for even cooking.

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