Go Back
Korean cuisine has been making waves across the globe, captivating food enthusiasts with its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and rich cultural heritage. The unique combination of spicy, sweet, and savory elements creates dishes that are not only delicious but also satisfying. One such dish that brilliantly captures these characteristics is the Spicy Korean BBQ Meatball Bowl. This recipe offers a delightful fusion of traditional Korean flavors and modern dining convenience, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to elevate their home-cooked meals.

Spicy Korean BBQ Meatball Bowls

Discover the irresistible taste of Spicy Korean BBQ Meatball Bowls, a perfect fusion of vibrant Korean flavors and home-cooked convenience. This delightful dish features succulent meatballs made with ground beef or turkey, enhanced by the iconic gochujang sauce that balances spicy, sweet, and savory notes. Served over rice and piled high with fresh vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and cucumber, this meal is not only satisfying but also nutritious and easy to prepare. Elevate your culinary skills and enjoy a comforting bowl that brings the essence of Korean cuisine right to your kitchen.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option)

1/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)

1 tbsp sesame oil

1 tsp black pepper

1 egg, beaten

For the Spicy Korean BBQ Sauce:

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tbsp gochujang

1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tsp sesame oil

1 garlic clove, minced

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust according to your preferred spice level)

For the Bowls:

2 cups cooked rice (use jasmine or brown rice for a nutritious base)

1 cup steamed broccoli or bok choy

1/2 cup shredded carrots

1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced

Sesame seeds for garnish

Extra green onions for garnish

Lime wedges for serving

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

    Make the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), Panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped green onions, minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, sesame oil, black pepper, and the beaten egg. Mix the ingredients gently until they are just combined — be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

      Form the Meatballs: With your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have some space between them for even cooking.

        Bake the Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and beautifully browned on the outside.

          Prepare the Spicy BBQ Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the spicy BBQ sauce by whisking together the soy sauce, gochujang, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to bubble, then reduce to a simmer for about 5 minutes or until the sauce has slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

            Assemble the Bowls: To serve, start with a hearty base of cooked rice in each bowl. Top with several of the baked meatballs and drizzle generously with the spicy BBQ sauce. Add steamed broccoli or bok choy, shredded carrots, and thinly sliced cucumber on top for a colorful and nutritious finish.

              Garnish and Serve: Finally, sprinkle the assembled bowls with sesame seeds and additional chopped green onions for extra flavor and texture. Serve the bowls with lime wedges on the side, allowing everyone to add an extra burst of zesty freshness to their meal.

                Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 35 mins | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve in vibrant, wide bowls for a colorful display, and arrange ingredients visually for an appealing look. Place lime wedges atop the bowls or on a small plate as a bright accent.