Korean BBQ Meatballs and Vegetables

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love, these Korean BBQ Meatballs and Vegetables are just what you need! Bursting with flavor and made with wholesome ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or even for impressing guests at your next gathering. The sweet glaze caramelizes beautifully under the broiler, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, the combination of crispy brussels sprouts and tender sweet potatoes makes it an all-in-one meal that pairs well with steamed rice or a colorful Asian slaw.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. You can have it on the table in just 35 minutes! It’s kid-friendly too, making it a great option for family dinners. Trust me, once you try these Korean BBQ meatballs, they’ll become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal cleanup, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
• Family-friendly flavors: The sweet and slightly spicy glaze will appeal to kids and adults alike, making it a hit at any dinner table.
• Versatile: You can serve these meatballs in various ways—over rice, in lettuce wraps, or simply on their own with dipping sauce.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a quick dinner option later in the week.
• Nutritious vegetables: With brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes included, you’re getting a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need for these flavorful Korean BBQ meatballs and vegetables:

For the Meatballs

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 lb), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 12 oz brussels sprouts (trimmed and cut in half)
• 2 Tablespoons sesame oil (divided)
• 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs (gluten-free if needed)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 scallions (thinly sliced, separating white ends from greens)
• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Gochujang (or sriracha sauce)

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
• 1/3 cup maple syrup (or brown sugar)
• 2 Tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger (grated)
• 1 Tablespoon Gochujang (or sriracha sauce, plus more to taste)
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch (+ 1 Tbsp water)

Toppings

• Sesame seeds
• Green onion

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some variations you might enjoy trying:

• Swap the protein: Instead of ground beef, use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Change up the veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add extra Gochujang or some chopped fresh chili peppers to kick things up a notch!
• Try different grains: Serve these meatballs over quinoa or farro for a nutritious twist instead of rice.

How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs and Vegetables

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. This high temperature helps roast the vegetables perfectly while giving that beautiful caramelization on both veggies and meatballs.

Step 2: Roast Your Veggies

On one half of a large baking sheet, place your sweet potatoes and brussels sprouts. Drizzle them with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and sprinkle with salt. Toss everything together so they’re well coated. Arranging them cut side down allows those brussels sprouts to get nice and crispy as they roast!

Step 3: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

While your veggies are roasting away, let’s make those delicious meatballs! In a large bowl, mix panko bread crumbs with milk—this helps keep them moist. After letting it sit for about five minutes, add the ground beef along with scallion whites, ginger, garlic, salt, and Gochujang. Mix everything together until combined; this is where all those tasty flavors come together!

Step 4: Shape Your Meatballs

Using clean hands or a medium cookie scoop, form your mixture into 1 ½ inch meatballs. You should end up with about 20-22 delicious bites ready for roasting!

Step 5: Combine Veggies & Meatballs

Once your veggies have roasted for about 15 minutes, carefully remove them from the oven. Place your meatballs on the other side of the baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with remaining sesame oil to enhance their flavor when baking.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfectly Done

Pop everything back into the oven! Bake for about 14-16 minutes until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The sweet potatoes should be tender while brussels sprouts turn golden brown.

Step 7: Whip Up Your Korean BBQ Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine soy sauce (or coconut aminos), maple syrup (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, ginger, Gochujang, garlic—this rich mixture brings all those bold flavors together!

Step 8: Thicken Your Sauce

Combine cornstarch with water in a small bowl until dissolved. Whisk this into your bubbling BBQ sauce; let it simmer until thickened—about 1-2 minutes—then remove from heat.

Step 9: Coat Your Meatballs & Broil

Carefully toss baked meatballs in your beautiful BBQ sauce until well-coated before placing them back on the pan. Turn on your broiler for that final touch—broil everything for just 2-3 minutes until bubbly and slightly crispy!

Now serve these amazing Korean BBQ Meatballs and Vegetables hot out of the oven topped with sesame seeds and green onions! Enjoy every savory bite!

Pro Tips for Making Korean BBQ Meatballs and Vegetables

Creating the perfect Korean BBQ meatballs and vegetables is all about flavor and texture. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish to the next level!

• Choose your ground meat wisely: Using a blend of ground beef and ground turkey can add depth to the flavor while keeping it leaner. This combination gives a delightful texture and moisture to the meatballs.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the breadcrumb mixture to sit for 5 minutes helps it absorb moisture, resulting in tender meatballs that don’t fall apart during cooking. This small step can make a big difference!

• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to substitute brussels sprouts with other hearty vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower. They roast beautifully and will soak up those delicious flavors as well!

• Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees they are cooked through while still being juicy.

• Make extra sauce: If you love that sweet and spicy glaze, consider doubling the sauce recipe! It’s great for drizzling over rice or using as a dipping sauce later on.

How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs and Vegetables

Presenting your Korean BBQ meatballs and vegetables can make mealtime feel extra special. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Chopped green onions: Fresh green onions not only add color but also a sharpness that balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
• Sliced red chili: For those who enjoy some heat, thinly sliced red chili peppers can provide an eye-catching garnish along with an extra kick!

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: Fluffy jasmine rice pairs wonderfully with these flavors, soaking up the extra sauce for each bite. It’s a classic accompaniment!
• Asian slaw: A refreshing Asian slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds crunch and brightness, balancing out the richness of the meatballs.
• Cucumber salad: A cool cucumber salad with sesame oil, vinegar, and chili flakes offers a light contrast that complements this hearty meal perfectly.
• Kimchi: If you’re feeling adventurous, serve this dish with some homemade or store-bought kimchi for an authentic Korean touch that brings in probiotic benefits too!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, your Korean BBQ meatballs and vegetables will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean BBQ Meatballs and Vegetables recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week, making your busy nights a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to separate the meatballs from the vegetables if you prefer to keep their textures intact.

Freezing

• Allow the meatballs and vegetables to cool completely before freezing.
• Store them in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes).
• Alternatively, use a microwave, heating in 30-second intervals until hot.
• If using the microwave, be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Korean BBQ Meatballs and Vegetables that might help you out!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Korean BBQ Meatballs and Vegetables?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute for beef in this recipe. Just ensure it’s cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

How do I serve Korean BBQ Meatballs and Vegetables?

These delicious meatballs can be served over steamed rice or alongside a fresh Asian slaw. They make for a fantastic all-in-one dinner that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Can I adjust the spice level in Korean BBQ Meatballs and Vegetables?

Absolutely! You can increase or decrease the amount of gochujang or sriracha based on your spice preference. Just remember that these sauces add flavor as well as heat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Korean BBQ Meatballs and Vegetables recipe as delightful as I do! With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own favorite veggies. Happy cooking!