Korean BBQ Meatballs: Sweet, Spicy, and Irresistible

Linda Marino

Posted on October 12, 2025

by Linda Marino

Savory and juicy meatballs coated in a sweet and spicy glaze, perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners.

Korean BBQ Meatballs are a delightful treat that brings joy and excitement to your kitchen! Picture savory, juicy meatballs coated in a sweet and spicy glaze. These bites of happiness are perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Get ready to indulge in a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance!

Why Youโ€™ll Fall in Love with Korean BBQ Meatballs

These Korean BBQ Meatballs are packed with irresistible flavors thatโ€™ll keep you coming back for more. The blend of savory beef, garlic, and green onions creates a mouthwatering treat everyone will adore. Theyโ€™re perfect for sharing, making them a hit at family dinners or friendly get-togethers.

Korean BBQ Meatballs: Sweet, Spicy, and Irresistible
Korean BBQ Meatballs: Sweet, Spicy, and Irresistible Korean BBQ meatballs

Plus, thereโ€™s something magical about these meatballs that just fits every season. Whether itโ€™s a cool autumn evening or a sunny summer day, they bring warmth and happiness to any table.

The Cozy Secret Behind This Recipe

Every family has their special recipes passed down through generations, and this one is ours! My grandmother always made something similar, filled with love and rich flavors. Now, this recipe adds a seasonal twist with the zing of gochujang and honey. Itโ€™s a lovely way to celebrate the joy of cooking together!

Ingredient You Will Need:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup gochujang
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Baking Fun

1. Get Everything Ready

First, preheat the oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC). This will create the perfect cooking environment for our delicious meatballs!

Next, grab a large bowl and combine ground beef with minced garlic, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until everything is just combined.

Now itโ€™s time to shape the mixture into meatballs! Aim for about 1 inch in diameter, and place each one on a baking sheet.

2. Make the Glaze

In a separate bowl, get ready to make the delicious glaze. Mix together the gochujang, honey, and minced ginger to create a glossy sauce full of flavor.

Once mixed, generously brush this glaze over the meatballs. This step is essential for that sweet and spicy touch!

3. Bake and Enjoy

Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 18 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.

When theyโ€™re ready, serve them hot! Drizzle any leftover glaze on top and sprinkle some fresh green onions if you like. Enjoy the mouthwatering aroma and flavors!

How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs in Style

Serving Korean BBQ Meatballs can be a fun experience! Try placing them on a large platter with toothpicks for a casual party vibe. It makes for easy snacking, and guests can help themselves!

If itโ€™s a sit-down meal, pair them with a fluffy rice dish or a fresh salad. Add a side of veggies for crunch and color. Your friends and family will be impressed by your delicious spread!

How to Store (If Any Survive!)

If you somehow have leftovers (which is rare!), storing them is easy and fun! Place the meatballs in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy more tasty bites!

Korean BBQ Meatballs
Korean BBQ Meatballs: Sweet, Spicy, and Irresistible Korean BBQ meatballs

Feel free to also freeze them! Pop them in a freezer-safe bag and enjoy the flavors in the future. They can stay good for about 2-3 months.

Fun Twists and Variations

Get creative with your Korean BBQ Meatballs! You can mix in some chopped bell peppers or carrots for added crunch.

For those who like it spicy, throw in some extra gochujang or even a little sriracha to the glaze. Want to go cheesy? Add a small cube of mozzarella in the center before baking for a gooey surprise!

These meatballs can adapt to different seasons too! In winter, consider using a splash of orange juice in the glaze for a festive twist.

Hungry for More?

If one recipe is never enough, youโ€™re in the right place. Iโ€™ve gathered a cozy mix of our most-loved and up-and-coming dishes over on the Recipe Trends page. Go take a peek you just might find your next family favorite waiting there.

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Korean BBQ Meatballs

Savory and juicy meatballs coated in a sweet and spicy glaze, perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

Meatball Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef Main protein for meatballs
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs To bind the mixture
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped Fresh herb for flavor
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil For added richness
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce Brings umami flavor
  • 1/4 cup gochujang Korean chili paste for heat
  • 2 tablespoons honey Adds sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced Enhances flavor
  • Salt and pepper to taste For seasoning

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter and place on a baking sheet.
Make the Glaze
  1. In a separate bowl, mix together gochujang, honey, and minced ginger to create the glaze.
  2. Brush the glaze generously over the meatballs.
Bake and Serve
  1. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  2. Serve hot with any leftover glaze drizzled on top and sprinkle with fresh green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 12gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6g

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Can also be frozen for 2-3 months. Experiment with adding chopped peppers or mozzarella for variations.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

FAQs

Can I freeze Korean BBQ Meatballs?

Yes! These meatballs freeze beautifully. Once baked, let them cool, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350ยฐF until warmed through, and brush on extra glaze for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

How do I adjust the spice level?

The heat comes mainly from gochujang. Use less for mild meatballs, or add extra gochujang, sriracha, or chili flakes if you like it fiery. A drizzle of honey helps balance out the heat while keeping the glaze sticky and flavorful.

Whatโ€™s the best way to serve these meatballs?

They shine as party appetizers with toothpicks, but also make a fantastic main course over jasmine rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps. Pair them with crunchy veggies for balance, or drizzle with sesame seeds for extra flair.

Can I prep them ahead of time?

Definitely! Mix and shape the meatballs a day in advance, then refrigerate. You can also prepare the glaze separately. When ready, bake and glaze for fresh, flavorful meatballs without the last-minute rush.

Bake, Share, and Pin for Later

Let the aroma of Korean BBQ Meatballs fill your kitchen and lift everyoneโ€™s spirits! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family. It’s all about enjoying delicious moments together.

Save this on Pinterest to bake it later! Enjoy every bite!

Letโ€™s Stay Connected

If my kitchen stories and sweet little recipes brought a smile to your day, donโ€™t let the fun stop here. Come hang out with me where I share even more cozy bakes, seasonal treats, and behind-the-scenes peeks: Facebook, Pinterest, and X. Iโ€™d love for you to join our table because good food is always better when itโ€™s shared.

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