Name: Crockpot Korean Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ginger powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup Korean BBQ sauce

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The moment the savory aroma fills your kitchen, it’s impossible not to smile. As the sweet and sticky Korean BBQ sauce melds with the juicy meatballs, you’re transported straight to your favorite Korean BBQ spot. These Crockpot Korean Meatballs are a delightful twist on traditional fare, combining rich flavors with tender textures. Whether you’re hosting a game night or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, these meatballs are a guaranteed hit.

Why This Recipe Works

What makes these meatballs a must-try? It’s all about the balance of flavors and the ease of preparation. The combination of tender ground beef mixed with just the right amount of spices creates a juicy meatball that bursts with flavor. Plus, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing the meatballs to bathe luxuriously in the sweet, tangy Korean BBQ sauce, infusing them with an irresistible taste.

“Delicious and easy! These meatballs disappeared at our party!”

Making Crockpot Korean Meatballs

Let’s break it down: this recipe is straightforward yet incredibly rewarding. Start by gathering your ingredients and get ready for some simple mixing and shaping. You’ll be combining juicy ground beef with breadcrumbs, fresh green onions, and a punch of flavor from garlic and ginger powder. The slow cooker handles the rest while you relax.

Ingredients

Gather your items:

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ginger powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup Korean BBQ sauce

When choosing your ground beef, aim for an 80/20 blend to ensure enough fat for moisture and flavor. If you’d like to make this dish a little lighter, ground turkey or chicken can work, but keep in mind they may require additional seasoning to capture the same savory depth.

Directions

How to cook it:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, egg, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined evenly; you want a consistent texture without overworking the meat.
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Don’t stress about perfection; these will be devoured regardless of their shape!
Place the meatballs in your slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer if possible for even cooking.
Pour the Korean BBQ sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they get nice and coated.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The key here is low and slow for the most tender meatballs.
Serve warm as an appetizer, and watch them disappear!

Crockpot Korean Meatballs

Serving Suggestions

For a beautiful presentation, serve the meatballs on a platter drizzled with extra BBQ sauce. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped fresh cilantro or additional green onions can elevate the look and add a burst of freshness. Pair them with toothpicks for easy snacking or alongside steamed rice with a side of kimchi for a more complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

To keep leftovers fresh, store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can also be frozen for up to three months. When reheating, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, ensuring they heat through but don’t overcook, which could dry them out.

Expert Tips

Mix gently: Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just enough to combine everything.
Adjust the spice: If you prefer some heat, consider adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the meat mixture or the sauce.
Make it ahead: These meatballs can be prepared up to a day in advance, just store them in the fridge before cooking.
Try different sauces: Feel free to experiment with other sauces, like teriyaki or even a sweeter hoisin sauce, for varied flavor profiles.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with ingredients and flavors! You can swap the ground beef for ground pork or turkey. Add finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini to the meat mixture for an extra dose of veggies. For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika instead of ginger powder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen ground beef?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it beforehand for easier mixing and shaping.

How do I make the meatballs without breadcrumbs?
You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers, panko, or even cooked quinoa for a gluten-free version.

Can I cook these meatballs on the stove?
Absolutely! Brown them in a skillet until cooked through and then add the sauce for a quick stovetop version.

Crockpot Korean Meatballs