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Homemade Korean Meatballs photo

Korean Meatballs

These Korean Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Korean

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger or paste
  • 3-4 cloves minced garlic or 2 teaspoons
  • ½ cup panko crumbs
  • 1 each egg
  • ½ cup sliced green onions
  • ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
  • ½ cup water more if desired
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1-2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (to taste)

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Meat thermometer
  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat Your Oven - Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking.
  2. Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, low-sodium soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, panko crumbs, egg, and sliced green onions. Mix until just combined.
  3. Step 3: Form the Meatballs - Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Step 4: Bake the Meatballs - Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
  5. Step 5: Prepare the Sauce - In a skillet, combine the low-sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos), water, brown sugar, sesame oil, cornstarch, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth and bubbling, then simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
  6. Step 6: Coat the Meatballs - Transfer baked meatballs to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat.
  7. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy - Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy with steamed rice or in lettuce wraps!

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
  • To make gluten-free, use gluten-free panko and tamari or coconut aminos.