Beef Bola Bola (Filipino Meatballs)
Beef bola-bola are savory Filipino meatballs that are tender, juicy, and comforting. Made with ground beef, garlic, onions, breadcrumbs and simple seasonings, then rolled into bite-sized balls and best enjoyed with rice.
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This recipe brings me back to my college days, I’d always grab a serving from a Karenderya, enjoy it with ketchup, and of course a big scoop of rice. It’s such a simple, budget-friendly meal that never fails to satisfy.
You might also enjoy these recipes: beef giniling, asian meatballs, and sotanghon with meatballs.
Why you'll love this recipe
Budget-friendly and easy on the wallet.
Easy to customize, you can add veggies like carrots or bell peppers.
Simple to make, even for beginners.
Can be fried or air-fried for a healthier option.
Great for meal prep and storing for later.
What does Bola Bola mean?
“Bola-bola” literally means “balls” in Filipino, and it’s the perfect name for these round, flavorful meatballs. Made with ground meat and simple seasonings, they’re a beloved comfort food in the Philippines.
Whether fried, simmered in a sauce, or added to soups, bola-bola are delicious on their own or paired with rice. They’re easy to make, budget-friendly, and always bring a little nostalgia to the table.
Ingredients Needed
These are the ingredients you’ll need for your bola-bola.
Ground beef – Use ground pork, chicken, or a mix for a different flavor or lighter option.
Garlic – Can substitute with garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
Onion – Shallots or green onions work too.
Egg – Helps bind the meatballs.
Breadcrumbs – Help keep meatballs moist, tender, and intact by absorbing liquid and acting as a binde
Oyster Sauce and Soy Sauce – Adds a touch of umami
Black pepper and Oil for frying.
You’ll find all the exact measurements on the recipe card below!
How to make Beef Bola Bola (Filipino Meatballs)
Making Filipino meatballs are easy and enjoyable. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide.
Step 1. Mix the meatball ingredients. Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and any extras in a large bowl, mixing gently until just combined.
Step 2. Shape the meatballs. Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1–1.5 inches in diameter.
Ste 3. Cook the meatballs. Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides until cooked through (about 10–12 minutes).
Storing and Reheating
Keep cooked bola-bola in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For uncooked meatballs, pop them in a freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer for up to two weeks.
To reheat you cooked meatballs, simply microwave them for a minute or two, panfry for about 5 minutes or until heated through. You can bake in the oven 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or gently warm in a sauce or broth to keep them juicy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! You can use ground pork, chicken, or even a mix of meats depending on your preference.
Yes! You can form the meatballs and freeze them raw, or cook them and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Yes, you can definitely air fry beef bola-bola! It’s a great option if you want a healthier version with less oil. Simply preheat your air fryer to 360°F, arrange the meatballs in a single layer, and cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through, until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
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Recipe
Beef Bola Bola (Filipino Meatballs)
Ingredients
- 500 grams ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small onion peeled and finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoon oyster sauce
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups neutral oil canola or vegetable, for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, minced garlic, chopped onion, egg, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and black pepper. Mix gently until everything is well combined.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Set it aside.
- Heat oil in a pan and fry the meatballs until golden brown and fully cooked. Work in batches and transfer them to a paper towel–lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve them hot on their own, with rice, or in a warm, comforting soup. Enjoy with a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Notes
- To store leftovers, place them in a container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- You can also add vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, just make sure to chop them finely.
