Chef Mitchell preparing Korean Style Meatballs with Sauce
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this recipe during my travels in Korea, where I fell in love with the bold flavors and unique ingredients used in their cuisine. After experimenting in my kitchen, I perfected these meatballs, ensuring they capture the essence of traditional Korean meals. This dish has since become a staple at my gatherings, always receiving rave reviews from friends and family. It reminds me of the connections made over shared meals and the joy of introducing others to new flavors."

As a chef with over a decade of experience in Asian cuisine, I have dedicated my career to mastering the art of flavor. I specialize in creating appetizers that are both tasty and visually appealing. With countless recipes crafted, I focus on bringing authentic tastes to the home cook.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Korean Style Meatballs with Sauce served on a plate

Why This Korean Style Meatballs with Sauce Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its harmonious blend of spices and textures. The combination of ground beef and pork ensures a juicy meatball, while the addition of green onions and garlic adds a layer of freshness. The sauce, with its sweet and tangy notes, perfectly complements the savory meatballs, making each bite irresistible.

The baking technique used for these meatballs creates a delightful crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. This method is not only healthier than frying but also ensures even cooking throughout. The simplicity of the preparation allows both novice and experienced cooks to create this dish with ease, guaranteeing impressive results.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best flavor, allow the meat mixture to rest for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator before forming the meatballs. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures a richer taste in the final dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. This makes them a great option for meal prep or entertaining. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. You can also make the sauce ahead and reheat it when serving.

If you prefer not to use ground pork, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken. Both options will provide a leaner meatball while maintaining a similar texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste might be slightly different, so you may want to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature for accuracy. Additionally, they should be nicely browned on the outside and firm to the touch, ensuring they are cooked thoroughly.

Yes, these meatballs freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

These meatballs pair wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve them with a side of pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider adding a simple salad or some stir-fried greens.

Stored in an airtight container, these meatballs will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Make sure to allow them to cool before refrigerating to maintain their texture. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance. Cook the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator and the sauce separately. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the meatballs and mix them with the sauce for a quick and easy meal.

The best way to reheat these meatballs is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a microwave-safe dish, covering them to retain moisture, for 2-3 minutes or until heated thoroughly.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The meatballs may turn out dry due to overcooking or using lean meat.

Solution: To prevent dryness, ensure you monitor the cooking time closely and consider using a mixture of meats, including fattier cuts, for added moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Meatballs may lack a crispy exterior if baked improperly.

Solution: For a crispier texture, consider broiling the meatballs for the last few minutes of cooking or lightly pan-frying them before baking.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooking can lead to tough meatballs.

Prevention: Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Remove from heat as soon as they reach 165°F (74°C) to prevent overcooking.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: Meatballs may be cooked on the outside but raw in the center.

Recovery: Make sure to shape meatballs evenly and not too large, which can cause uneven cooking. Use a thermometer to ensure complete doneness.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The outside of the meatballs may burn if the oven temperature is too high.

Prevention: Adjust the cooking temperature or cover the meatballs with foil if they are browning too quickly.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the meatballs are too sweet, add a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: To reduce saltiness, mix in additional unsweetened breadcrumbs or a small amount of sugar.

Bland: Enhance bland meatballs by adding more spices such as garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce.

Fresh ingredients for Korean Style Meatballs with Sauce

Essential Ingredients for Korean Style Meatballs with Sauce

The main ingredients for these meatballs include ground beef and pork, which create a juicy and flavorful base. Breadcrumbs help bind the mixture, while fresh vegetables like garlic and onions provide a delightful crunch and aroma. The seasoning components, including soy sauce and sesame oil, are key to achieving that authentic Korean flavor profile.

Quality ingredients are crucial for the best results. Use fresh ground meats and avoid pre-packaged breadcrumbs when possible. Fresh vegetables will enhance the overall taste, and using high-quality soy sauce will elevate the flavor of your meatballs.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Ground Beef: Opt for ground beef with a higher fat content for a juicier meatball. This will ensure that they remain moist after cooking and provide a rich flavor.
  • Soy Sauce: Choose a good quality soy sauce, preferably low sodium, to control the saltiness of the dish. This will allow you to adjust the flavors without overwhelming the meatballs.
  • Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture. Panko creates a lighter meatball that holds its shape well and absorbs flavors beautifully.
Cooking process for Korean Style Meatballs with Sauce

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

To achieve the perfect Korean Style Meatballs, start by thoroughly mixing the ingredients to ensure even distribution of flavors. Forming uniform meatballs will help them cook evenly. Baking is preferred as it provides a healthier alternative to frying while still yielding delicious results.

Once the meatballs are baked and coated in sauce, serve them immediately for the best experience. Pairing with sides enhances the meal, allowing the meatballs to shine as the star of the dish.

Key Technique for Perfect Korean Style Meatballs with Sauce

The key to perfect meatballs lies in the mixing and baking techniques. Ensure to mix the ingredients just until combined to prevent toughness. Baking at the right temperature ensures even cooking and keeps them moist while allowing for a delicious crust.

Korean Style Meatballs with Sauce

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup ketchup
    For the sauce base
  • 1/4 cup water
    To thin the sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
    Adds tanginess

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef
    Select lean or fatty mix
  • 1 lb ground pork
    For flavor balance
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
    Helping bind the meat
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
    For depth of flavor
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    Essential for taste
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
    Adds freshness
  • 1 egg, beaten
    Acts as a binder
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
    For umami depth

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

    In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, green onions, beaten egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, black pepper, and sugar. Mix until well combined.

  2. Form the Meatballs

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a lined baking sheet.

  3. Bake the Meatballs

    Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned.

  4. Prepare the Sauce

    In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, rice vinegar, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

  5. Glaze the Meatballs

    Once the sauce is heated, add the baked meatballs to the saucepan. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce.

  6. Serve

    Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving platter and garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired.

  7. Enjoy

    Serve warm as an appetizer and enjoy your Korean Style Meatballs with Sauce!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Korean Style Meatballs with Sauce, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3-4 days. If you'd like to keep them longer, consider freezing them, which can extend their shelf life to up to three months.

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs are versatile and can be served with steamed rice, tossed in salads, or enjoyed on their own. For a more complete meal, serve with side dishes like kimchi or pickled vegetables.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with the spices or add ingredients like chopped bell peppers or carrots for added flavor and nutrition. You can also try different sauces, such as a spicy gochujang sauce for those who enjoy heat.