Beef Meat Balls
By Sho @ Hungry for Thai
on
Dec 27th 2024
Updated: Apr 18th 2025
Prep time
2 hours 20 minutes
Cook time
40 minutes
Serves
3
Ingredients
-
Main
Steps
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
-
Blend all the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
-
Refrigerate the mixture in the normal fridge compartment for 2 hours.
-
-
Cook the Beef Meat Balls:
-
Cook the meatballs in water, but do not let the water boil as it may cause the meatballs to crack. Use low heat instead.
-
Shape the meatballs into small or large sizes, depending on your preference. If you have a meatball mold, you can use that as well.
-
Simmer until the meatballs are cooked. The meatballs will float to the surface when done (if unsure, cut one open to check the inside).
-
Scoop the meatballs out and transfer them to a bowl of cold water (you can add ice in the water). Let them cool for 10 minutes to release heat.
-
Remove the meatballs and place them in a colander to drain off the water completely.
-
The meatballs are ready to use in various dishes such as noodle soup, grilled meatballs, spicy meatball salad, or any recipe of your choice.
-
Nutritional info
% of daily valueCalorie Breakdown
Protein
427 cal
Fat
217 cal
Carbs
165 cal
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchasesâat no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting Hungry For Thai!
Table of Contents

FREE DOWNLOAD
Get My Top 10 Easy Thai Recipes!
Download my top 10 easy Thai recipes absolutely free!
If youâre craving something bold, juicy, and absolutely mouth-watering, these Thai Beef Meatballs are a must-try.
Inspired by authentic Thai flavors, these meatballs are a savory mix of beef (or a pork-and-beef combo) seasoned with garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of pepper.
Meatballs are a shared culinary tradition that can be found all around the world.
Whether in the Western or Eastern Hemisphere, many cuisines feature dishes made from meat formed into balls.
The primary purpose of this preparation was originally food preservation, but the differences lie in the spices used in the mixture and the names of the dishes.
What you'll need
- Minced beef - The main ingredient providing the meaty base and flavor for the meatballs.
- Seasoning powder - Enhances the overall flavor of the meatballs. You can use beef-flavored seasoning powder or a versatile all-purpose seasoning.
- Pepper - Adds a subtle warmth that enhances the savory Thai flavors in the meatballs.
- Sugar - Essential for enhancing and bringing out the natural flavor of the beef.
- Baking powder - Helps create a slightly airy and tender texture in the meatballs by improving the binding and structure.
- Salt - Essential for enhancing and bringing out the natural flavor of the beef.
- Tapioca Flour - Acts as a binder to hold the mixture together and gives the meatballs a smooth and springy texture.
- Soy Sauce - A versatile condiment that can be added (about 1 teaspoon) to enhance the umami flavor of the meatballs. It deepens the savory taste and adds a subtle richness to the overall profile.
- Water - Hydrates the mixture, making it easier to blend and shape while contributing to the meatballs' soft and moist texture.
Why Youâll Love This Thai Beef Meatballs Recipe đЎ
- Super versatile â Enjoy them grilled, fried, in soups, or tossed into a spicy Thai salad!
- Easy to make â Just mix, roll, and cook. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Bold Thai flavors â Packed with garlic, coriander root, white pepper, and fish sauce for that authentic Thai street food taste.
- Great for parties or snacks â Serve them with toothpicks and dipping sauceâtheyâre always a hit!
- Freezer-friendly â Make a big batch and freeze for quick meals later.
- Protein-packed â A filling and satisfying option for lunch, dinner, or a snack.
How to Make Beef Meat Balls
- Blend all ingredients until smooth and well combined.
- Chill the mixture in the fridge for 2 hours.
- Shape into meatballs (small or large), using a mold if you have one.
- Simmer gently in hot (not boiling) water until they float and are cooked through.
- Cool in a bowl of ice water for 10 minutes, then drain well in a colander.
- Serve or store â enjoy in soups, grilled, or in spicy salads!
What to Serve With
Looking for the perfect sides to round out your meal? Here are some tasty ideas:
đĽ Starter: Cucumber Salad â light, crunchy, and refreshing with a sweet and tangy kick.
𼊠Main Course: Thai Fried Rice or Pad Thai â pair the meatballs with a flavorful noodle or rice dish for a filling meal.
đ Side Dish: Sticky Rice â a classic Thai pairing that soaks up all the delicious juices and sauces.
đ° Dessert: Mango Sticky Rice or Thai Coconut Balls (Khanom Tom) â the perfect sweet finish to your Thai feast!
Thai Beef Meatballs are a versatile snack that people enjoy anytime.
Personally, I love eating them in a variety of waysâgrilled, fried, added to noodle soup, or tossed into a spicy salad.
Theyâre the kind of appetizer that disappears fast at partiesâespecially when served with a creamy peanut dipping sauce, tamarind sauce or Thai Jaew BBQ Dipping Sauce!
đ´ Whether youâre making an easy Thai beef meatballs recipe for a quick weeknight dinner or spicing things up with Thai red curry beef meatballs or Thai green curry beef meatballs, this dish brings big flavor without a fuss.
Serve them hot as a snack, or turn them into a main meal with jasmine rice, noodles, or a quick veggie stir-fry.
These Thai-style beef meatballs are so versatile and packed with Southeast Asian flair, theyâll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Perfect for meal prep, party bites, or cozy dinnersâthis Thai beef meatballs recipe is both simple and seriously satisfying.
Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with Beef Meat Balls, feel free to adjust the spices and seasonings to your liking.
FAQs
Yes! You can substitute ground beef with ground pork, chicken, or even a mix of meats depending on your preference.
Definitely. You can prep the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 2 days before cooking, or freeze them for longer storage.
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10â12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
These Thai Beef Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make!
They bring bold Thai street food vibes right to your kitchen.
Whether you grill them, fry them, or toss them into soup, theyâre sure to be a hit.
Letâs get cooking! đŠâđł
Tips
- Use cold meat when mixingâit helps the meatballs hold their shape better.
- Wet your hands slightly when rolling the meatballs to prevent sticking.
- If making grilled meatballs, it's recommended to pair them with tamarind dipping sauce for an enhanced flavor.
- Serve alongside sliced cucumbers and fresh cilantro for the best experience.
Leave A Comment
More recipes to tryâŚ

Homemade Vegetable Gyoza (Vegan/ Vegetarian)
7th March 2025
These Japanese pan-fried dumplings are golden crisp on the bottom and succulent inside. You don't have to be vegetarian or vegan to love vegetable gyoza!

Northeastern Thai Sausage (Sai Krok Isan)
30th December 2024
If you think of the most charming Isan dish, many would likely place Isan sausage near the top of the list. Grilled to perfection over a hot flame until aromatic and smoky, Isan sausage exudes an irresistible fragrance.

Best Thai Crispy Spring Rolls
12th March 2025
Thai spring rolls (ŕ¸ŕ¸ŕšŕ¸ŕ¸ľŕšŕ¸˘ŕ¸°ŕ¸ŕ¸ŕ¸) are not just crispy and delicious but also packed with nutrients! This authentic Thai spring rolls recipe is perfect as a light appetizer, party snack, or even a side dish. Plus, itâs budget-friendly and super easy to make!