Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

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Juicy, savory, and bursting with flavor, these Korean BBQ Meatballs paired with a creamy, spicy mayo dip are a showstopper at any table. Whether you’re prepping for game night, a family dinner, or just want a bold new twist on a classic dish, these meatballs are your answer. They’re tender on the inside, slightly crispy on the outside, and infused with Korean-inspired seasonings that pack just the right punch.

The spicy mayo dip is the perfect complement, offering a creamy kick that balances the sweetness of the BBQ glaze. This recipe is fast becoming one of my all-time favorites, not just because it’s easy to whip up, but also because it’s consistently a crowd-pleaser. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love This Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

These meatballs bring together the best of both worlds: sweet and smoky BBQ flavor with the zesty richness of an easy homemade dip. They’re ideal for quick weeknight dinners or as an eye-catching party appetizer. Plus, you can make them ahead, freeze them, or even stuff them in a sandwich.

What Kind of Meat Should I Use for Korean BBQ Meatballs?

Ground beef or a mix of beef and pork works beautifully for this recipe. The pork adds extra moisture and flavor, but if you prefer leaner meat, go all-beef or even ground turkey. Just avoid extra lean meats, as they can dry out easily—a little fat is your friend here!

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Ingredients for the Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

To achieve the perfect balance of texture and flavor, each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role. From the base meat to the rich sauces, every element builds toward that irresistible Korean BBQ taste.

• Ground beef – Provides the juicy base for the meatballs. Use 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
• Panko breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs and gives them a tender texture.
• Garlic and ginger – These aromatics give the meatballs a bold and authentic Korean flavor profile.
• Green onions – Adds a mild bite and fresh contrast to the rich meat mixture.
• Soy sauce – Deep umami flavor and the salty element that ties everything together.
• Gochujang (Korean chili paste) – Brings that signature Korean heat and a hint of sweetness.
• Brown sugar – Balances the spice with just enough sweetness for that Korean BBQ glaze effect.
• Sesame oil – A small amount goes a long way in adding nuttiness and depth.
• Egg – Binds everything together for meatballs that hold their shape without being tough.

For the Spicy Mayo Dip:

• Mayonnaise – Creamy base that tames the heat.
• Sriracha – For the kick!
• Rice vinegar – Adds a subtle tang to brighten the dip.
• A pinch of sugar – Rounds out the flavors with a touch of sweetness.

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How To Make the Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Follow these easy steps to make juicy, flavor-packed meatballs with a dip that’s just as addictive.

Step 1: Prep the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, finely minced garlic and ginger, chopped green onions, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, and egg. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined—don’t overmix.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, roll the mixture into small meatballs, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 18–20 minutes, or until fully cooked and lightly browned on the outside.

Step 4: Mix the Spicy Mayo Dip

While the meatballs are baking, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, rice vinegar, and a pinch of sugar in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the spice level as desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the cooked meatballs to a serving platter and pair them with the spicy mayo dip on the side. Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

These Korean BBQ Meatballs are super versatile when it comes to serving. They shine as a standalone appetizer or can be transformed into a satisfying main dish with just a few sides. Each batch yields about 20–24 meatballs, enough to feed 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes.

For serving, arrange the warm meatballs on a platter with a generous bowl of spicy mayo dip in the center. Sprinkle with chopped scallions or toasted sesame seeds for a little flair. You can also skewer them with toothpicks for a party-style presentation.

To store leftovers, let the meatballs cool completely and then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place the cooled meatballs on a tray in a single layer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag—good for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

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What to Serve With Korean BBQ Meatballs?

Steamed White Rice

Fluffy white rice is the ultimate companion to balance the bold Korean BBQ flavors.

Kimchi

Spicy, tangy, and fermented—kimchi is a traditional Korean side that pairs perfectly.

Asian Slaw

A refreshing slaw with cabbage, carrots, and sesame vinaigrette adds crunch and brightness.

Pickled Cucumbers

Quick-pickled cucumbers bring a zesty bite that cuts through the richness of the meatballs.

Lettuce Wraps

Wrap a meatball in a crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaf with a dab of spicy mayo for a low-carb twist.

Garlic Noodles

Savory, buttery noodles with garlic offer a cozy, hearty side.

Roasted Vegetables

Oven-roasted broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers are easy and add a wholesome touch.

Fried Rice

Elevate your meal with egg fried rice tossed in soy sauce and scallions for extra umami.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and shape the meatballs up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them until ready to bake. You can also bake and freeze them for later use.

What if I can’t find gochujang?
If you can’t find gochujang, you can substitute with a mix of sriracha and a small amount of miso paste or soy sauce. It won’t be identical, but it will still give you a spicy umami kick.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute tamari for soy sauce. Make sure your gochujang and other condiments are also labeled gluten-free.

How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is medium, thanks to the gochujang and sriracha. You can reduce the heat by using less chili paste or sriracha, or balance it with more mayo in the dip.

Can I use an air fryer instead of baking?
Definitely. Air fry the meatballs at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are fully cooked and lightly browned.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use ground turkey or a pork-beef mix? Did you turn it into a rice bowl?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and bold flavor combos on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and find your next kitchen obsession!

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Conclusion

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a must-try for anyone who loves big, bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. They’re easy to prep, freezer-friendly, and irresistibly good—perfect for appetizers, meal prep, or weeknight dinners. Whether you go traditional with rice or make it party-style with lettuce wraps, this recipe offers versatility and satisfaction in every bite. Give it a go and watch them disappear fast!

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