Print

Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe

4.6 from 123 reviews

These Korean BBQ Meatballs are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer or main dish featuring ground beef seasoned with garlic, ginger, green onions, and traditional Korean flavors like gochujang and sesame oil. Baked to perfection and served with a spicy mayo dip, they offer a delicious combination of sweet, savory, and spicy tastes garnished with toasted sesame seeds and scallions.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 inch ginger, grated
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for binding)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish

  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Chopped scallions

Spicy Mayo Dip

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon gochujang
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  2. Mix the meatball ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced garlic, grated ginger, finely chopped green onions, egg, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, sesame oil, gochujang, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and season with salt and black pepper. If desired, add cornstarch for better binding. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
  3. Form the meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
  4. Bake the meatballs: Arrange the meatballs evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet, then bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until they are fully cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
  5. Make the spicy mayo dip: While the meatballs are baking, whisk together the mayonnaise, gochujang, lime juice, and honey in a small bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  6. Serve: Serve the baked Korean BBQ meatballs warm. Drizzle with the spicy mayo dip or serve the dip on the side for dipping. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor.
  • The cornstarch is optional but helps to bind the meatballs better.
  • Gochujang can be adjusted to taste based on your spice preference.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute the soy sauce and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions.
  • These meatballs can be prepared ahead and reheated in the oven.
  • Ensure meatballs are cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety.

Keywords: Korean BBQ, meatballs, gochujang, spicy mayo, appetizer, baked meatballs, Korean cuisine