Korean BBQ Meatball Banh Mi

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Get ready for a flavor explosion with this Korean BBQ Meatball Banh Mi! It’s the ultimate fusion sandwich that combines the sweet-savory depth of Korean BBQ sauce with the crisp freshness of classic Vietnamese banh mi toppings. Imagine juicy, glazed meatballs tucked into a crusty baguette, layered with crunchy pickled veggies, creamy mayo, and fresh herbs. It’s spicy, tangy, savory, and totally addictive.

This sandwich is perfect for lunch, dinner, or anytime you’re craving bold global flavors. Each bite delivers contrast—warm meatballs and cool slaw, soft bread and crunchy pickles. It’s street food magic made easy right in your kitchen.

What Kind of Meat Should I Use for the Meatballs?

Ground pork is a traditional and flavorful choice, but you can also use ground beef, chicken, or a combination. Pork tends to hold the moisture best and pairs beautifully with the Korean-style sauce. For leaner options, ground turkey or chicken still deliver tasty results.

Ingredients for the Korean BBQ Meatball Banh Mi

Ground Pork or Beef
Juicy and flavorful, it forms the base of your meatballs.

Garlic & Ginger
Freshly grated aromatics add warmth and complexity.

Soy Sauce & Gochujang
For that bold Korean umami and a hint of spicy kick.

Brown Sugar
Balances the heat and adds sweetness to the glaze.

Breadcrumbs & Egg
Binders to hold the meatballs together and keep them tender.

Baguette Rolls
Crispy outside, soft inside—ideal vessel for all that juicy filling.

Pickled Carrots & Daikon
Classic banh mi crunch and tang. Make them yourself or buy pre-made.

Fresh Jalapeños
For that fiery banh mi bite.

Cilantro Leaves
Bright herbal freshness to balance the savory.

Mayonnaise
Creamy base spread to mellow the spice and bind flavors.

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How To Make the Korean BBQ Meatball Banh Mi

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

In a large bowl, mix ground pork, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, egg, and breadcrumbs. Form into small meatballs.

Step 2: Bake or Pan-Fry

Bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes or pan-fry over medium heat until fully cooked and golden brown on the outside.

Step 3: Glaze the Meatballs

While warm, toss the cooked meatballs in additional gochujang, soy sauce, and a touch of brown sugar to create a sticky, flavorful glaze.

Step 4: Toast the Baguettes

Split baguette rolls and lightly toast them in the oven or on a skillet to crisp up the crust.

Step 5: Assemble the Banh Mi

Spread mayonnaise on each side of the baguette. Layer with pickled carrots and daikon, glazed meatballs, fresh jalapeño slices, and cilantro leaves.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Serve warm while the meatballs are juicy and the bread is crisp. Enjoy with extra pickles or a side of kimchi for more tang and crunch.

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How to Serve and Store the Korean BBQ Meatball Banh Mi

These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh while the baguette is still warm and crispy. If you’re prepping ahead, store components separately: meatballs in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days, and pickled veggies in their brine for up to 2 weeks. Toast fresh bread before serving and reheat meatballs in the oven or microwave.

For easy entertaining, let guests assemble their own sandwiches with a banh mi bar setup!

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What to Serve With Korean BBQ Meatball Banh Mi

Kimchi Slaw

A spicy, fermented side that complements the bold flavors.

Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy, slightly sweet fries that balance the sandwich’s savory glaze.

Cucumber Salad

A refreshing and crunchy cooling side.

Mango Chili Lime Slices

Sweet and tangy tropical fruit to offset the heat.

Asian Pickle Platter

Pickled cucumbers, radishes, or onions for more zip.

Iced Jasmine Tea

A delicate, floral tea that refreshes between spicy bites.

Coconut Water or Sparkling Limeade

Hydrating drinks with natural sweetness that pair beautifully.

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Want More Global Sandwich Ideas?

If the Korean BBQ Meatball Banh Mi excited your taste buds, you’ll love these fusion favorites:

• Thai Peanut Chicken Banh Mi
• Kimchi BLT Sandwich
• Vietnamese Lemongrass Beef Slider Trio
• Spicy Tandoori Chicken Flatbread
• Mediterranean Falafel Wrap with Harissa Mayo

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this bold and flavor-packed idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find the next time you’re craving something adventurous.

Tried it with a twist—maybe quick pickled red onions or a sriracha aioli? Share your tips in the comments!

Need more inspiration? Explore SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest for even more sandwich magic.

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