Description

These Korean BBQ Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and coated in a sweet and savory glaze. Perfect as a main dish served over rice or as a delicious appetizer, they combine classic Korean flavors with easy-to-follow preparation and baking methods.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1 tablespoon soy sauce
½ teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Glaze:

¼ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the meatballs.
Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and arrange them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 15–18 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and nicely browned.
Make the Glaze: While the meatballs bake, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ketchup, and sesame oil in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the glaze thickens to a glossy consistency.
Coat the Meatballs: Once baked, transfer the meatballs to a bowl and toss them thoroughly in the prepared Korean BBQ glaze until fully coated.
Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish the glazed meatballs with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve them hot, either over steamed rice or as a flavorful appetizer.

Notes

For best results, use fresh ginger and garlic to maximize flavor.
The breadcrumbs help keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
You can substitute ground beef with ground pork or turkey if desired.
The glaze can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and green onions for a traditional garnish.
Serve with rice or noodles for a complete meal.