If you’re searching for a dinner-party dish that practically guarantees an empty platter, you have to try this Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe. These savory, tender meatballs are infused with classic Korean flavors—garlic, ginger, a subtle sweetness and a bit of sesame—but what takes them truly over the top is a luscious, sticky glaze and a crave-worthy, fiery dipping sauce. Whether you’re looking for a new crowd-pleaser, an irresistible appetizer, or just something to shake up your meal routine, this dish delivers serious flavor and fun in every bite.

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed by how just a handful of everyday ingredients blend together for show-stopping flavor. Each element is here for a reason, turning basic meatballs into a standout Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe with incredible taste, texture, and color. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few tips to make every ingredient shine:

Ground beef (or pork): The base of luscious, juicy meatballs; feel free to swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter spin.
Breadcrumbs: Essential for a soft, tender bite that holds together—panko works beautifully, too.
Egg: Acts as the perfect binding agent, so your meatballs won’t fall apart in the oven.
Green onions, finely chopped: Add fresh color and a gentle oniony zing.
Garlic, minced: For that punchy, savory depth every great meatball needs.
Fresh ginger, grated: Brings a bright, signature warmth that makes the flavors pop.
Soy sauce: The salty, umami heart of our seasoning—splurge on low-sodium if you like more control.
Sesame oil: Nutty and rich, it ties all the Korean BBQ vibes together.
Brown sugar: Balances the boldness and brings a gentle caramel sweetness.
Black pepper: A touch for subtle background heat.
For the glaze: Soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, plus a cornstarch slurry—this turns into that irresistible, sticky BBQ shine.
For the spicy mayo dip: Mayonnaise, sriracha, and rice vinegar—this creamy, spicy sauce is the absolute finishing touch.

How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

Start by grabbing your largest mixing bowl, because you’re about to bring these flavors together. Add the ground beef (or pork), breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and black pepper. The key is to mix everything just until it’s combined—no need to overwork, or you’ll end up with tough meatballs. You want them juicy, tender, and packed with all those classic Korean BBQ flavors.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this helps with easy cleanup! Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and arrange them with a little space in between. Pop them into the oven and let them bake for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and your kitchen smells absolutely incredible.

Step 3: Make the Sticky Korean BBQ Glaze

While the meatballs are in the oven, let’s whip up our glaze. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then stir in your cornstarch slurry. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes until it thickens and becomes glossy—this is where the magic really happens!

Step 4: Toss the Meatballs in the Glaze

As soon as your meatballs are done baking, transfer them straight into the glaze. Gently toss or roll them until they’re evenly coated. Every single meatball should glisten like a mini BBQ masterpiece, ready to soak up even more flavor.

Step 5: Whip Up the Spicy Mayo Dip

Grab a small bowl and stir together mayo, sriracha (add more if you like it hot!), and a splash of rice vinegar. It comes together quickly and brings a creamy, zippy heat that’s totally addictive. Set it aside for dipping action later!

How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe

Garnishes

For the ultimate finishing touch, sprinkle your Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe with a shower of thinly sliced green onions and a pinch of toasted sesame seeds. These garnishes don’t just add pops of color—they also bring extra crunch, nuttiness, and fresh flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, try a few cilantro leaves for a fresh twist.

Side Dishes

These meatballs are versatile little stars! Serve them alongside sticky white rice or fluffy jasmine rice to soak up all those bold flavors. A bright Asian slaw, crunchy cucumber salad, or some quick-pickled veggies cut through the richness with a refreshing crunch and acidity. For party fare, scatter them over noodles or tuck them into lettuce cups for a fun, hand-held bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Set out the Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe on a sleek platter with fancy toothpicks if you’re entertaining. You can also pile them in a bowl and drizzle with extra spicy mayo, or tuck them into slider buns with greens for an unforgettable mini sandwich. For a family-style vibe, serve alongside bowls of extra sauce, steamed rice, and plenty of napkins—everyone can craft their own perfect bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep perfectly for up to 3 days, continuing to soak up even more of that savory glaze. Keep the spicy mayo dip in a separate covered bowl to maintain its freshness and kick.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze these beauties! Cool the meatballs completely, then lay them out on a tray to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. They’ll last up to 3 months. For best results, freeze without the glaze, then thaw and toss with the glaze before serving for maximum freshness and shine.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the meatballs gently in a skillet or oven at 350°F until heated through, then toss with extra glaze if you have it. You can also microwave for a quick fix, just be mindful not to overcook and dry them out. Give the spicy mayo a little stir before serving, and you’re ready to go!

FAQs

Can I make the Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can shape the meatballs the night before and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. You can also bake them a day ahead and reheat before glazing—this makes entertaining super easy.

What’s the best substitute if I’m out of sesame oil?

While sesame oil really delivers that signature nutty Korean BBQ aroma, a bit of neutral oil plus a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can step in if you’re in a pinch. The flavor won’t be quite as deep, but your meatballs will still be delicious.

How spicy is the spicy mayo dip?

The beauty of this dip is that it’s entirely customizable. If you love big heat, go heavy on the sriracha. Prefer something milder? Start with one tablespoon and adjust to taste. The creamy mayo balances the spice beautifully, so you’re in control.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or pork?

Definitely! Ground turkey or chicken both work great in the Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe—they yield a lighter texture and flavor while still soaking up all the fragrant seasoning and glaze. Just be careful not to overbake, as lean meats cook quickly.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Both the meatball and sauce components are completely dairy-free, so this Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe is perfect for anyone avoiding dairy—no swaps needed.

Final Thoughts

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe really pack a wow factor, whether you’re prepping for a party or looking to spice up a weeknight family dinner. They’re sweet, savory, tender, and just a bit spicy—pure finger-licking fun! I hope you’ll give them a try and discover just how quickly they disappear. Happy cooking!

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe

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4.9 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 20 meatballs 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Korean BBQ meatballs are a flavor-packed appetizer that will have your guests coming back for more. Juicy meatballs glazed in a savory-sweet sauce and served with a spicy mayo dip – it’s a perfect combination of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Scale

For the meatballs:

1 pound ground beef (or pork)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the glaze:

2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

For the spicy mayo dip:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1–2 tablespoons sriracha (to taste)
1 teaspoon rice vinegar

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and pepper. Roll into 1-inch balls and bake for 15–18 minutes.
Make the glaze: In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic. Thicken with cornstarch slurry.
Glaze the meatballs: Toss the baked meatballs in the glaze until coated.
Prepare the spicy mayo dip: Mix mayonnaise, sriracha, and rice vinegar in a bowl.
Serve: Serve the glazed meatballs with spicy mayo dip on the side.