Sweet, savory, spicy, and loaded with umami goodness, these Korean BBQ Meatball Tacos are the perfect fusion of comfort food and global flair. Juicy meatballs glazed in a sticky Korean BBQ sauce are nestled in warm tortillas, topped with crunchy slaw and drizzled with a creamy gochujang aioli. It’s the kind of weeknight dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss.

Each bite gives you the warmth of slow-cooked meatballs with the kick of Korean flavors, balanced beautifully with crisp veggies and a hint of citrus. These tacos bring together bold flavor and easy preparation in a way that makes them an instant favorite for family dinners or laid-back parties.

Why You’ll Love This Korean BBQ Meatball Tacos Recipe

These tacos take the best of two worlds—Korean BBQ and Mexican street food—and mash them into something spectacular. You get the richness of seasoned meatballs with a glossy, sweet-spicy glaze that clings to every bite. The fresh slaw on top adds brightness and crunch, while a tangy aioli rounds it out with a creamy finish. They’re easy to prep ahead, fun to assemble, and even better to devour.

What Kind of Tortillas Should I Use?

Corn tortillas lend an earthy flavor and are great if you want a more traditional bite, but flour tortillas are softer and easier to fold around juicy fillings like meatballs and slaw. If you’re after street taco vibes, go with the smaller 6-inch tortillas. Just warm them lightly on a skillet or open flame before serving to prevent breaking and bring out their best flavor.

Ingredients for the Korean BBQ Meatball Tacos

The magic in these Korean BBQ Meatball Tacos starts with the ingredients. The balance of sweet, salty, spicy, and creamy comes from a handful of key players that bring texture and flavor to life. From juicy meatballs to a crunchy slaw and that irresistible gochujang sauce, each component plays an essential role in building the perfect taco.

Ground beef
This is the base of the meatballs, giving them a rich, meaty texture. You can also mix with ground pork for more flavor.

Breadcrumbs
Helps bind the meatballs together and keeps them tender on the inside.

Egg
Acts as the glue for your meatball mixture, holding everything in shape during cooking.

Garlic & Ginger
These aromatics are crucial to get that authentic Korean-style depth in the meatballs.

Soy sauce
Adds umami and saltiness to the meatballs and sauce.

Gochujang
This fermented chili paste brings the heat and a touch of sweetness. It’s the heart of Korean BBQ flavor.

Brown sugar
Used in the BBQ glaze to balance out the spicy and salty notes with mellow sweetness.

Rice vinegar
Gives a bit of tang and acidity to brighten the sauce and slaw.

Tortillas
The vessel for all the flavor, soft flour or corn tortillas work great warmed up.

Cabbage slaw
Provides a refreshing crunch to balance the rich meatballs. You can use a pre-made mix or slice your own.

Mayonnaise
For the aioli that brings a creamy counterbalance to the spicy elements.

Lime juice
Fresh and zesty, lime brightens the slaw and the aioli for a pop of acidity.

How To Make the Korean BBQ Meatball Tacos

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, and soy sauce. Mix just until combined. Roll into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then cover and cook through until no longer pink in the center. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Korean BBQ Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and rice vinegar. Bring to a simmer and stir until thickened slightly. Toss cooked meatballs in the sauce until coated.

Step 4: Make the Slaw

In a bowl, mix shredded cabbage with lime juice, a splash of rice vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit while you prep the rest.

Step 5: Make the Gochujang Aioli

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, gochujang, and lime juice until smooth. Taste and adjust heat to your liking.

Step 6: Warm the Tortillas

Heat tortillas on a dry skillet or directly over a gas flame for a few seconds per side until soft and lightly charred.

Step 7: Assemble the Tacos

Place 2-3 meatballs in each tortilla. Top with a generous spoonful of slaw and a drizzle of gochujang aioli. Serve warm and enjoy the flavor bomb.

Serving and Storing Korean BBQ Meatball Tacos

These Korean BBQ Meatball Tacos are best served fresh and hot, right after you assemble them. The contrast between warm meatballs and cool slaw is part of what makes each bite so special. This recipe feeds about 4 people, giving each person 2 to 3 tacos depending on how generously you fill them.

If you’re planning ahead, you can make the meatballs and sauce in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the meatballs in a skillet or microwave before tossing them in the sauce again to glaze. Keep the slaw and aioli refrigerated in separate airtight containers and assemble everything just before serving.

For longer storage, freeze the cooked, unglazed meatballs. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, warm them up, toss with fresh sauce, and serve with slaw and tortillas for a quick and tasty meal anytime.

What to Serve With Korean BBQ Meatball Tacos?

Kimchi Fried Rice

For a bold and satisfying pairing, kimchi fried rice brings heat, tang, and umami that complements the tacos perfectly.

Pickled Vegetables

Quick pickled radishes or cucumbers offer a refreshing zing and crunch to balance the richness of the meatballs.

Sesame Cucumber Salad

Cool, crisp, and sesame-scented, this light salad adds a cooling contrast that’s ideal for warmer days.

Sweet Potato Fries

The subtle sweetness and crisp texture are a fun, family-friendly side that plays well with Korean flavors.

Miso Soup

Warm and savory, miso soup offers a cozy touch that works well in cooler months when tacos need a warm companion.

Edamame with Sea Salt

Simple yet addictive, these protein-packed pods are a great finger food to nibble while tacos are being devoured.

Spicy Garlic Green Beans

Tossed with garlic and a touch of chili, these beans bring a bit of fire and a lot of flavor to your taco night.

Pineapple Salsa

For a touch of sweetness, pineapple salsa adds a juicy, tropical twist that refreshes the palate.

Want More Taco Ideas with a Fusion Twist?

If you love these Korean BBQ Meatball Tacos, there’s a whole world of bold, comforting meals you’ll enjoy too. Take your taco night in exciting new directions with these other delicious creations:

• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce for a cozy pasta-inspired spin.
• Sticky Honey Garlic Steak Rotini for a sticky-sweet, garlicky flavor bomb.
• Creamy Garlic Orzo with Lemon Chicken Meatballs if you want more meatball magic.
• Crispy Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls for a fried fusion snack that hits the spot.
• Homemade Mexican Pizza when you’re craving layered, cheesy crunch.