If you’re looking for a delicious and easy Filipino meatballs recipe, then you’ll love this Bola Bola recipe. These tasty Bola Bola meatballs are a staple in many Filipino households, enjoyed as a main dish, appetizer, or even as part of a delicious soup. Made with ground beef, seasonings, and simple ingredients, this dish is one of the best Filipino ground beef recipes you can try.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the perfect Filipino Bola Bola recipe, with tips, variations, and serving suggestions to ensure you get the most out of this beloved dish. Whether you’re in need of a quick beef recipe for a busy night or looking for easy Filipino recipes simple enough for beginners, this ground beef Filipino recipe will not disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This Bola Bola Recipe
1. Simple Ingredients, Amazing Flavor
- With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that is packed with delicious, savory flavors.
2. Polyvalente et Personnalisable
- Serve it as a snack, appetizer, main dish, or even with soup.
3. Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
- Ces Filipino Bola Bola meatballs are loved by both kids and adults alike.
4. Parfait pour la préparation des Repas
- Make a big batch and store them for later meals.
5. Great for Any Occasion
- Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, family gathering, or party, these meatballs will always be a hit!

Ingredients for Filipino Bola Bola Recipe
Pour faire le meilleur Filipino meatballs recipe, vous aurez besoin des ingrédients suivants:
Meatball Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or mix with ground pork for extra juiciness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 gousses d'ail, émincées
- 1 medium carrot, grated (optional but adds sweetness and texture)
- 1 egg (acts as a binder)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (helps hold the meatballs together)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (for a hint of umami flavor)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional but adds a nice aroma)
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
Pour La Friture:
- Cooking oil (for deep frying or pan-frying)
For Dipping Sauce:
- 3 tbsp banana ketchup or sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar

How to Make Filipino Bola Bola Meatballs
Cette Filipino ground beef recipe is easy to follow and takes minimal time to prepare. Follow these steps for the best Bola Bola Filipino meatballs:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, carrot, breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, oyster sauce, salt, pepper, sugar, sesame oil, and green onions.
- Mix everything well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Cover and let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Étape 2: Façonner les Boulettes de viande
- Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
- Place the shaped meatballs on a plate or tray.
Étape 3: faire Cuire les Boulettes de viande
Option 1: Deep Frying
- Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
- Carefully drop the meatballs into the oil and fry until golden brown and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
Option 2: Pan Frying
- Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Arrange the meatballs in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through.
Option 3: Baking (Healthier Option)
- Préchauffer votre four à 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 4: Prepare the Dipping Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together banana ketchup, soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar.
- Stir until well combined and serve with your Filipino Bola Bola meatballs.
Conseils De Dégustation
These delicious Filipino meatballs recipe can be served in various ways:
- As an appetizer with dipping sauce.
- With steamed rice for a hearty meal.
- In a soup like Misua Bola Bola (meatball noodle soup).
- As a filling for sandwiches or sliders.
- With sweet and sour sauce for a flavorful twist.

Tips for the Best Filipino Bola Bola Recipe
1. Use a Mix of Ground Meats
- Combining ground beef and ground pork gives the best texture and juiciness.
2. Don’t Overmix
- Overmixing the meat can make your meatballs tough. Mix just until combined.
3. Chill Before Frying
- Refrigerate the meatballs for 15-30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
4. Test One Meatball First
- Fry one meatball first to check the seasoning. Adjust as needed.
5. Make It Spicy
- Add chili flakes or sriracha to the mixture for extra heat.
Les Variations et les Substitutions
- Swap ground beef for ground chicken or turkey for a leaner version.
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- Make it keto-friendly by replacing breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
- Add cheese to the center of each meatball for a cheesy surprise.
Foire Aux Questions (Faq)
1. Can I freeze Bola Bola meatballs?
Yes! Store uncooked or cooked meatballs in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 mois.
2. What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a pan over medium heat, in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
3. Can I make this meatball mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mixture a day in advance, cover, and store in the fridge until ready to cook.
4. What other sauces go well with Bola Bola?
Try honey garlic sauce, barbecue sauce, or spicy vinegar.
Réflexions Finales
Cette Filipino Bola Bola recipe is a must-try if you love Filipino ground beef recipes that are quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re serving it as a meal, appetizer, or snack, these Bola Bola Filipino meatballs will be a guaranteed hit. Try them today and enjoy a taste of Filipino home cooking!
If you love this Filipino meatballs recipe, don’t forget to share it and leave a comment below. Happy cooking!