These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a delicious and unique dish that will elevate any meal. Perfect for parties, game days, or cozy family dinners, these meatballs feature a savory glaze and a creamy dip that adds a delightful kick. The combination of flavors in this recipe is sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
- Step 2: Form the Meatballs
- Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
- Step 4: Make the Glaze
- Step 5: Coat Meatballs in Glaze
- Step 6: Prepare Spicy Mayo Dip
- Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
- How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- As an Appetizer
- With Steamed Rice
- In Lettuce Wraps
- On Sliders
- As Part of a Platter
- How to Perfect Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Best Side Dishes for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Reheating Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use turkey instead of beef?
- How spicy are these Korean BBQ Meatballs?
- What can I serve with Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip?
- How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these meatballs ready in no time.
- Bursting with Flavor: The sweet and spicy glaze combined with the creamy dip offers a mouthwatering experience.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy the meatballs as an appetizer or serve them over rice for a complete meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These Korean BBQ meatballs are perfect for gatherings, ensuring there’s something delicious for everyone.
- Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang to suit your spice preference.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making these flavorful meatballs, gather your tools! Having the right equipment on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet or air fryer basket
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
- Baking sheet or air fryer basket: Allows for even cooking, whether baking or air frying.
- Saucepan: Necessary for preparing the glaze that coats the meatballs.
- Whisk: Helps to create a smooth consistency in the spicy mayo dip.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
– ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece ginger, grated
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– ½ tsp salt
– ¼ tsp black pepper
– 2 green onions, finely chopped
– ¼ cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
– 1 tbsp gochujang
– 1 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ginger, minced
– 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken)
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– 1 tbsp gochujang
– 1 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– ½ tsp garlic powder
– Sesame seeds
– Chopped green onions
How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Ground beef
Panko breadcrumbs
Egg
Minced garlic
Grated ginger
Soy sauce
Gochujang
Brown sugar
Sesame oil
Salt
Black pepper
Chopped green onions
Mix gently until just combined.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
For baking:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for about 18–20 minutes.
For air frying:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook meatballs for about 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a saucepan, combine:
Soy sauce
Honey (or brown sugar)
Gochujang
Rice vinegar
Sesame oil
Minced garlic
Minced ginger
Simmer over medium heat. Then stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken.
Step 5: Coat Meatballs in Glaze
Toss cooked meatballs in warm glaze until fully coated.
Step 6: Prepare Spicy Mayo Dip
In a small bowl, whisk together:
Mayonnaise
Gochujang
Lime juice
Honey
Garlic powder
Mix until smooth.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Transfer glazed meatballs to a serving plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve with spicy mayo dip on the side. Enjoy your delicious Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip!
How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different occasions. Whether you’re hosting a party or having a cozy family dinner, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
As an Appetizer
- Serve the meatballs on toothpicks for easy eating at gatherings.
- Pair with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and cucumbers for crunch.
With Steamed Rice
- A bed of fluffy steamed rice complements the rich flavors of the meatballs.
- Drizzle some extra glaze over the rice for added taste.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Use large lettuce leaves as a low-carb option to wrap the meatballs.
- Add shredded carrots and sliced cucumbers for freshness and texture.
On Sliders
- Place meatballs on small buns to create delicious sliders.
- Top with spicy mayo and pickled vegetables for a tasty twist.
As Part of a Platter
- Arrange meatballs alongside other appetizers like dumplings and spring rolls.
- This creates a vibrant spread perfect for sharing with friends and family.

How to Perfect Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
To achieve the best results when making these Korean BBQ Meatballs, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger elevate the flavor profile significantly.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the meatballs tender.
- Adjust spice levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of gochujang in both the meatball mixture and dip.
- Let them rest: Allow cooked meatballs to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps them absorb more sauce.
- Experiment with proteins: Try using ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version of this dish.
- Store leftovers properly: Refrigerate any leftover meatballs in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Pairing side dishes can take your meal from good to great. Here are some excellent options that complement Korean BBQ Meatballs beautifully.
- Kimchi: This traditional fermented dish adds a spicy, tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the meatballs.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers, sesame oil, and vinegar provides a crisp contrast.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers color and nutrition while being a great palate cleanser between bites.
- Fried Rice: A savory fried rice dish can absorb extra sauce from the meatballs, creating a filling meal.
- Noodle Salad: Cold noodle salad dressed in sesame dressing is light yet satisfying, pairing well with spicy flavors.
- Pickled Radish: Sweet and crunchy pickled radish enhances the overall flavor experience by adding brightness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip, it’s easy to stumble into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add texture and help the meatballs hold together. Always include them for the best results.
- Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs. Combine just until ingredients are blended for tenderness.
- Ignoring the glaze: The glaze is key for flavor! Don’t skip simmering it properly; this step enhances the taste of your dish.
- Not preheating your oven or air fryer: Cooking at the right temperature is crucial for even cooking. Always preheat to ensure perfect meatballs.
- Serving without garnish: Garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions add visual appeal and extra flavor. Never skip this final touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Korean BBQ meatballs can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip:
Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, turkey is a great alternative! It will result in lighter meatballs but still delicious.
How spicy are these Korean BBQ Meatballs?
The spiciness comes from gochujang. You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
What can I serve with Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip?
These meatballs pair well with rice, vegetables, or as a standalone appetizer.
How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and check that your soy sauce is gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip offer a delightful blend of flavors that make them perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them as a cozy dinner, they’re versatile enough to suit everyone’s taste. Feel free to customize the spice levels or try different dips to make it your own!
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Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 meatballs (serves about 4) 1x
Description
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a delightful fusion of flavors, perfect for appetizers or a hearty meal. These savory meatballs feature a sweet and spicy glaze that pairs beautifully with a creamy, zesty mayo dip. Whether you’re hosting a lively gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner, these meatballs are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. With their bold taste and easy preparation, they make for an irresistible comfort food option that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or beef and pork mix)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, soy sauce, and gochujang. Mix gently until combined.
- Shape mixture into meatballs (1 to 1.5 inches in diameter) and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes until cooked through.
- Meanwhile, prepare the spicy mayo dip by whisking together mayonnaise, gochujang, lime juice, and honey in a small bowl until smooth.
- Serve meatballs warm with spicy mayo dip on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (approx. 120g)
- Calories: 284
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 515mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 80mg