Korean Meatballs Bowl

The Korean Meatballs Bowl is a savory, satisfying dish featuring juicy meatballs coated in a sweet and spicy glaze, served over rice with fresh vegetables. Inspired by Korean flavors, this bowl brings together tender protein, crisp textures, and bold seasonings in one well-balanced meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and bold Korean-inspired flavors in every bite

• Easy to prepare and perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep

• A well-balanced combination of protein, grains, and vegetables

• Customizable with your preferred sides or spice level

• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef or pork

• Garlic, minced

• Ginger, grated

• Green onions, chopped

• Soy sauce

• Gochujang (Korean chili paste)

• Brown sugar or honey

• Sesame oil

• Egg

• Breadcrumbs

• Cooked white or brown rice

• Carrot, julienned

• Cucumber, sliced

• Kimchi (optional)

• Sesame seeds

• Additional green onions for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Make the meatball mixture: In a bowl, combine ground meat, garlic, ginger, green onions, soy sauce, egg, breadcrumbs, and a touch of sesame oil. Mix until fully combined.

3. Form the meatballs: Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until fully cooked and lightly browned.

5. Prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan, stir together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, and sesame oil. Simmer until slightly thickened.

6. Coat the meatballs: Toss the cooked meatballs in the glaze until evenly coated.

7. Assemble the bowls: Serve rice in individual bowls, top with glazed meatballs, carrots, cucumber, and kimchi if using. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option

• Spicy version: Add chili flakes or extra gochujang to the glaze

• Vegetarian version: Substitute meat with plant-based ground or lentil mixture

• Low-carb option: Serve over cauliflower rice or steamed cabbage

• Add crunch: Top with crushed peanuts or crispy shallots

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store meatballs and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

• Reheating: Warm meatballs in a skillet or microwave until heated through. For best results, reheat the glaze separately and re-coat the meatballs before serving.

• Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs (without glaze) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and heat before glazing and serving.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can form the meatballs and refrigerate them up to a day in advance before baking.

What type of rice works best for this bowl?

Jasmine, short-grain white rice, or brown rice are all great options.

How spicy are Korean meatballs?

They have a mild to moderate heat depending on the amount of gochujang used. Adjust to your taste.

Can I pan-fry the meatballs instead of baking?

Yes, cook them in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and breadcrumbs to make it gluten-free.

Can I use store-bought glaze?

Yes, but homemade gochujang glaze offers fresher, more balanced flavor.

How do I keep the meatballs moist?

Do not overmix the meatball mixture, and include an egg and breadcrumbs for tenderness.

Can I use tofu instead of meat?

Yes, crumbled firm tofu combined with breadcrumbs and seasonings makes a good vegetarian alternative.

What vegetables can I add?

Try adding shredded cabbage, steamed broccoli, or sautéed spinach.

Can kids eat this?

Yes, but reduce the gochujang or omit it from the glaze for a milder version.

Conclusion

The Korean Meatballs Bowl is a vibrant and hearty meal packed with savory, spicy, and sweet elements. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s ideal for a comforting dinner or a flavorful meal prep option. With endless ways to customize it, this bowl is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.