Korean Bbq Meatballs With Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe

The Ultimate Korean BBQ Meatballs Recipe with Spicy Mayo Dip

Savory Korean BBQ meatballs pack a serious punch of flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance.

These juicy spheres of deliciousness combine traditional Korean seasonings with a modern twist.

Tender meat infused with bold, smoky notes and a killer spice blend.

Each bite promises an explosion of umami that feels both familiar and exciting.

The accompanying spicy mayo dip adds a creamy, zesty kick that perfectly complements the meatballs’ rich profile.

Succulent and packed with character, these morsels transform an ordinary meal into a culinary adventure.

You won’t be able to resist grabbing another bite – so roll up your sleeves and get cooking!

Why Korean BBQ Meatballs With Spicy Mayo Dip Are A Hit

  • Flavor Explosion: Korean BBQ meatballs deliver a mind-blowing taste adventure with sweet, tangy, and spicy notes that dance across your palate.
  • Super Simple Technique: These meatballs require minimal cooking skills, making them perfect for home cooks wanting restaurant-quality results without complicated steps.
  • Quick Weeknight Wonder: From prep to plate, this recipe takes less than 30 minutes, solving dinner dilemmas for busy families and hungry individuals craving something deliciously different.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Great for game nights, potlucks, appetizer spreads, or casual dinners, these meatballs appeal to both kids and adults with their irresistible glazed coating and zingy dipping sauce.

What’s Inside Korean BBQ Meatballs With Spicy Mayo Dip

Meat Base:
  • Ground Beef, Ground Pork: Classic meat combo with rich flavor, choose meat with some fat content for juicy meatballs.
  • Egg: Helps bind ingredients together, keeps meatballs tender and cohesive.
Meatball Binders and Aromatics:
  • Breadcrumbs, Green Onions, Garlic, Ginger: Classic Asian flavor enhancers, adds texture and depth, use fresh ingredients for best results.
  • Soy Sauce, Sesame Oil, Black Pepper: Provides umami, depth, and subtle heat, choose low-sodium soy sauce if preferred.
Glaze Ingredients:
  • Honey, Rice Vinegar, Cornstarch: Creates sweet-tangy Korean BBQ style glaze, helps thicken sauce, use pure honey for best flavor.
Spicy Mayo Dip Components:
  • Mayonnaise, Sriracha, Gochujang, Lime Juice, Honey: Creates creamy, spicy, tangy dipping sauce, adjust spice level to preference.
Garnish:
  • Sesame Seeds, Additional Green Onions: Adds visual appeal and extra layer of flavor, toast sesame seeds for enhanced nuttiness.

Making Korean BBQ Meatballs With Spicy Mayo Dip

Step 1: Create Meaty Spheres

Grab a mixing bowl and combine:
  • Ground Meat
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Egg
  • Green Onions
  • Minced Garlic
  • Grated Ginger
  • Soy Sauce
  • Sesame Oil
  • Brown Sugar
  • Black Pepper

Gently mix ingredients until just blended. Roll mixture into golf ball-sized spheres and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 2: Roast Meatballs

Slide the baking sheet into a preheated oven at 400°F. Cook meatballs until they’re golden brown and completely cooked through, about 15-18 minutes. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 3: Craft Sticky Sauce

In a saucepan, blend:
  • Soy Sauce
  • Honey
  • Rice Vinegar
  • Sesame Oil
  • Crushed Garlic
  • Minced Ginger

Simmer sauce over medium heat. Want a thicker consistency? Whisk in a cornstarch slurry and cook until glossy.

Step 4: Coat Meatballs

Drench freshly baked meatballs in the simmering sauce, ensuring each sphere gets a perfect glaze.

Step 5: Whip Up Fiery Cream

In a small bowl, combine:
  • Mayonnaise
  • Sriracha
  • Lime Juice
  • Honey

Stir until smooth and adjust heat level to your preference.

Step 6: Present and Garnish

Transfer glazed meatballs to a serving plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Place spicy mayo on the side for dipping.

Enjoy your Korean-inspired feast!

Helpful Hints For Korean BBQ Meatballs With Spicy Mayo Dip

  • Optimize Meat Mixture: Gently mix meatball ingredients to prevent tough, dense texture and maintain a light, tender bite.
  • Control Glaze Consistency: Adjust cornstarch amount gradually to achieve perfect glossy, clingy sauce without becoming too thick or runny.
  • Balance Spicy Mayo Heat: Start with small amounts of Sriracha or gochujang, tasting incrementally to create personalized spice level that complements meatballs.
  • Prevent Dry Meatballs: Use ground meat with slightly higher fat content and avoid overmixing to ensure juicy, succulent results.
  • Enhance Flavor Depth: Toast sesame seeds before garnishing to release nutty aroma and add extra dimension to the Korean BBQ meatballs.

Save And Reheat Korean BBQ Meatballs With Spicy Mayo Dip

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover Korean BBQ meatballs in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Place meatballs and glaze separately to maintain texture. Refrigerated meatballs stay fresh for 3-4 days.
  • Reheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350F. Spread meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 8-10 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave Option: Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate. Reheat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature and avoiding overcooking. Drizzle extra glaze to restore moisture.
  • Freeze Method: Wrap cooled meatballs tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating using oven or microwave method.

Good Sides For Korean BBQ Meatballs With Spicy Mayo Dip

  • Pair with Crisp Korean Beer: Grab a cold Cass or Hite beer to perfectly balance the rich, sweet, and spicy meatballs. These light lagers cut through the bold Korean BBQ flavors and provide a refreshing contrast.
  • Complement with Cucumber Kimchi: Serve a side of tangy cucumber kimchi to add a cool, crunchy texture that enhances the meat's warmth. The pickle's acidity will help cleanse the palate between bites of the glazed meatballs.
  • Match with Jasmine Rice Pilaf: Create a simple jasmine rice pilaf with toasted sesame seeds to soak up the delicious Korean BBQ glaze. The mild, fragrant rice will help balance the intense flavors of the meatballs and spicy mayo.
  • Enhance with Soju Cocktail: Mix a fruity soju cocktail using green grape or peach soju to complement the dish's sweet and spicy profile. The light, smooth alcohol will elevate the overall dining experience and provide a traditional Korean drinking companion.

Different Takes On Korean BBQ Meatballs With Spicy Mayo Dip

  • Chicken Fusion Meatballs: Swap ground beef for ground chicken, adding extra ginger and garlic for enhanced flavor profile. Keep the Korean BBQ glaze and spicy mayo dip for consistent taste experience.
  • Vegetarian Korean Bites: Replace meat with crumbled firm tofu or plant-based ground protein. Mix in finely chopped mushrooms for hearty texture and umami depth. Maintain original seasoning technique for authentic Korean-inspired taste.
  • Beef and Pork Blend Meatballs: Combine ground beef and ground pork for richer, more complex meat flavor. Increase sesame oil slightly to complement the mixed protein combination. The Korean BBQ glaze will beautifully caramelize on this protein blend.
  • Air Fryer Quick Version: Cook meatballs in air fryer at 375F for 810 minutes instead of baking. Reduces cooking time and creates slightly crispier exterior while maintaining juicy interior. Perfect for quick weeknight meals with same delicious Korean-inspired flavors.

Korean BBQ Meatballs With Spicy Mayo Dip Questions Answered

  • What makes these Korean BBQ Meatballs different from regular meatballs?

The secret is in the authentic Korean-inspired flavors like sesame oil, ginger, and the sweet-tangy BBQ glaze that gives these meatballs a unique, bold taste profile that sets them apart from traditional meatball recipes.

  • Can I use a different type of meat for these meatballs?

Absolutely! While the recipe works great with ground beef, you can easily substitute ground pork, chicken, or turkey. Just ensure the meat is lean enough to hold together and reaches the safe internal temperature of 165F.

  • Is the spicy mayo dip very hot?

The spicy mayo dip is customizable. You can adjust the heat level by controlling the amount of Sriracha or gochujang you add. Start with a small amount and gradually increase to match your personal spice tolerance.

  • Do I need any special cooking equipment to make these meatballs?

Not at all! A standard oven, baking sheet, and a few basic mixing bowls are all you need to create these delicious Korean BBQ meatballs. It’s a simple recipe that doesn’t require any complicated kitchen tools.

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Korean Bbq Meatballs With Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe

Korean Bbq Meatballs With Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe


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4.8 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sizzling Korean BBQ Meatballs dance with bold Korean flavors, bringing zesty spice and umami to your plate. Juicy beef, glazed with gochujang and garnished with green onions, creates an irresistible bite you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (500 grams) ground beef or pork (or a mix)

Binding and Flavor Enhancers:

  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Aromatic Ingredients:

  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated

Korean BBQ Glaze Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons water

Spicy Mayo Dip Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha or gochujang
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice or rice vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon honey

Garnish Ingredients:

  • Sesame seeds
  • Chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Gather all ingredients and preheat the oven to a robust 400F (200C), strategically lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for optimal cooking conditions.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, meticulously combine ground meat with breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and a dash of black pepper. Gently fold ingredients until just harmoniously integrated.
  3. Craft uniform meatballs approximately 1 1/2 inches in diameter, positioning them with precision across the prepared baking sheet, ensuring adequate spacing between each sphere.
  4. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven, allowing meatballs to roast for 15-18 minutes until they reach a safe internal temperature of 165F (74C), developing a golden-brown exterior.
  5. Simultaneously, construct the Korean BBQ glaze by combining soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, crushed garlic, and ginger in a compact saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  6. For enhanced viscosity, incorporate a cornstarch slurry, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until the glaze transforms into a luxurious, glossy coating.
  7. Once meatballs complete cooking, tenderly enrobe them in the aromatic Korean BBQ glaze, ensuring each morsel receives an even, glistening coverage.
  8. Craft the spicy mayo dip by whisking mayonnaise with Sriracha or gochujang, a splash of lime juice, and optional honey. Calibrate the heat level to personal preference.
  9. Artfully arrange the glazed meatballs on a serving platter, garnishing with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and additional green onion fragments.
  10. Present the meatballs alongside the zesty mayo dip, inviting guests to indulge in this fusion of Korean-inspired flavors.

Notes

  • Customize meat selection by using ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences or health considerations.
  • Create uniform meatballs using a small ice cream scoop or tablespoon for consistent sizing and even cooking.
  • Balance spice levels in mayo dip by gradually adding hot sauce and tasting, allowing personalized heat intensity.
  • Prepare meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, which enhances flavor development and saves preparation time.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
James Mitchell

James Mitchell

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Creation and Testing​, Fusion Cuisine​, Food Styling and Photography​, Culinary Education​

Education

Kendall College, Chicago, IL

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classic and modern cooking techniques, with a specialization in international cuisines.​

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Advanced Certificate in Gastronomy
  • Focus: In-depth studies of global food cultures, flavor profiling, and innovative recipe development.​

James Mitchell is the founder and fearless flavor explorer at Cooking Crusade. With a degree in Culinary Arts from Kendall College and advanced training in global gastronomy from The Culinary Institute of America, James has spent over a decade perfecting the art of recipe creation. 

His background includes fine dining, private cheffing, and food styling, but his true joy comes from turning big ideas into doable recipes for home cooks. Every dish he shares is a mix of creativity, culture, and a little kitchen magic, built to bring excitement back to everyday meals.

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