Name: Korean BBQ Meatball Rice Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Korean-inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons gochujang; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1/4 cup water; 2 cups cooked white rice; 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 tablespoons spicy mayo

Sticky, savory, and just the right touch of sweet, these Korean BBQ Meatball Rice Bowls are comfort food reimagined with bold Asian flavors. Juicy meatballs coated in a glossy Korean BBQ sauce sit atop fluffy white rice, accompanied by fresh cucumber slices, shredded carrots, and a drizzle of spicy mayo for the perfect balance of texture and heat.

These bowls are a weeknight game-changer. Quick enough for a busy evening and impressive enough to serve guests, they bring a restaurant-quality experience right to your kitchen. The best part? You can customize them with your favorite veggies or make them ahead for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Korean BBQ Meatball Rice Bowl

This recipe combines the richness of juicy, oven-baked meatballs with the umami-packed sweetness of Korean BBQ glaze. It’s hearty yet fresh, thanks to the crisp veggies and vibrant garnishes. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl or looking to spice up your dinner rotation, this dish delivers.

You’ll love how easily it all comes together, and the flavors are irresistible for both adults and kids alike. It’s also great for meal prep since it stores and reheats beautifully.

What Kind of Ground Meat Should I Use?

While traditional recipes might call for beef, you can use ground pork, turkey, or even chicken to suit your taste or dietary needs. Beef offers a deeper, richer flavor that pairs beautifully with the Korean BBQ sauce, but leaner options like turkey keep it lighter.

If you’re going plant-based, meatless ground substitutes work just as well. Just make sure whatever protein you use has a bit of fat to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.

Ingredients for the Korean BBQ Meatball Rice Bowls

Each ingredient in this dish has a purpose—from bold flavor to perfect texture.

Ground beef (or pork/turkey): The base of your meatballs. Use 80/20 beef for juiciness.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and gives them a tender bite.
Egg: Acts as a binder to keep everything together.
Garlic and ginger: Freshly minced for that punchy, aromatic depth.
Soy sauce: Brings savory umami notes to both meatballs and sauce.
Sesame oil: Adds that distinct nutty flavor essential in Korean cooking.
Brown sugar: Balances the saltiness with a touch of sweetness in the BBQ sauce.
Gochujang: The Korean chili paste that gives heat and bold flavor.
Rice vinegar: Adds a bright, tangy lift to the sauce.
Cooked white rice: A soft, neutral base that soaks up all the rich flavors.
Cucumber and shredded carrots: Fresh crunch to contrast the warm meatballs.
Green onions & sesame seeds: Garnishes that add color and flavor.
Spicy mayo: Creamy, spicy drizzle that ties it all together.

How To Make the Korean BBQ Meatball Rice Bowls

Follow these easy steps to bring your bowls to life.

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix gently until just combined. Roll into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet.

Step 2: Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes or until fully cooked and golden brown.

Step 3: Make the Korean BBQ Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, gochujang, garlic, rice vinegar, and a splash of water. Simmer until thick and glossy, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Toss Meatballs in Sauce

Once meatballs are baked, toss them in the warm Korean BBQ sauce until fully coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Spoon white rice into bowls. Top with saucy meatballs, cucumber slices, shredded carrots, and a drizzle of spicy mayo. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

How to Serve and Store Korean BBQ Meatball Rice Bowls

This recipe makes about 4 generous servings, ideal for family dinners or weekly meal prep. Serve immediately while the meatballs are hot and saucy for the ultimate flavor hit. The fresh vegetables add cool crunch that balances the warmth of the dish.

To store, keep the components separate. Place meatballs, rice, and toppings in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat the meatballs and rice in the microwave, then assemble your bowl fresh each time.

What to Serve With Korean BBQ Meatball Rice Bowls?

These bowls are complete on their own, but you can definitely elevate the meal with some complementary sides.

Steamed Edamame with Sea Salt

A simple, protein-rich appetizer that pairs well with Asian flavors.

Kimchi

Add a fermented, spicy kick that contrasts perfectly with the sweet BBQ glaze.

Miso Soup

A warm, umami-rich soup to start your meal gently.

Pickled Radishes

Crunchy, tangy, and colorful—they add texture and brightness.

Asian Slaw

A light, vinegar-based cabbage slaw cuts through the richness of the meatballs.

Japchae (Korean Glass Noodles)

These slightly sweet, stir-fried noodles make a flavorful side.

Garlic Green Beans

Sautéed in sesame oil and garlic, they’re an easy, healthy add-on.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and bake the meatballs in advance. Store them in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Just reheat and toss in sauce when ready to serve.

2. Is this dish spicy?
The heat level is mild to moderate thanks to the gochujang and spicy mayo. You can adjust the spiciness by using less gochujang or omitting the spicy mayo entirely.

3. Can I use store-bought Korean BBQ sauce?
Absolutely. While homemade sauce gives you full control of the flavor, a good quality bottled Korean BBQ sauce works well in a pinch.

4. What type of rice works best?
Short-grain white rice (like sushi rice) is perfect, but jasmine or even brown rice are great substitutes. Just aim for something fluffy that holds sauce.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and ensure your gochujang and breadcrumbs are gluten-free.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it with turkey or go traditional with beef? Maybe you added extra heat or went light on the sauce?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and global-inspired dishes on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next weeknight favorite!

Conclusion

Korean BBQ Meatball Rice Bowls are a flavor-packed way to switch up your weekly menu with something both comforting and exciting. Easy enough for weeknights, tasty enough for company, and endlessly customizable, this dish deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

Whether you’re new to Korean-inspired cooking or just want something different, this bowl has everything: saucy meatballs, crisp veggies, and fluffy rice—all in one bite.

Korean BBQ Meatball Rice Bowls

Author: Tanya Rivers
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Get ready to wow your tastebuds with these Korean BBQ Meatball Rice Bowls—a delicious fusion of juicy meatballs coated in sticky-sweet Korean BBQ sauce, nestled on a bed of fluffy rice with crisp veggies and spicy mayo. Perfect for quick dinner ideas, meal prep, or healthy snack cravings, this easy recipe packs bold Asian flavors in a satisfying bowl. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or new food ideas for your weekly menu, this dish delivers!