These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a delightful fusion of flavors that can elevate any meal or gathering. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or even as a snack, these meatballs bring a unique blend of sweetness and spice that is sure to impress. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, their umami-rich glaze paired with the creamy spicy mayo dip makes them irresistible.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Meatballs
- For the Glaze
- For the Spicy Mayo Dip
- Garnish
- How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
- Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
- Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
- Step 5: Serve with Spicy Mayo Dip
- How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- As an Appetizer
- In a Rice Bowl
- In Lettuce Wraps
- With Noodles
- 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 ground turkey instead of beef or chicken?
- How do I make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip gluten-free?
- What can I serve with Korean BBQ Meatballs?
- How spicy are these meatballs?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is beginner-friendly, allowing anyone to whip up these flavorful meatballs in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of gochujang and sesame oil creates a rich, savory taste that will have your taste buds dancing.
- Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or even in sandwiches; the options are endless!
- Customizable Ingredients: You can easily substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These meatballs are perfect for gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the preparation of these delicious Korean BBQ meatballs.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet or skillet
- Spoon for mixing
- Meatball scoop or hands for shaping
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
- Baking sheet or skillet: These options provide versatile cooking methods whether you bake or pan-fry the meatballs.
- Meatball scoop: Ensures uniform size for even cooking and presentation.
Ingredients
To make these tasty Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip, gather the following ingredients:
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground chicken
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
For the Glaze
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken)
For the Spicy Mayo Dip
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon gochujang
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine all your ingredients for the meatballs:
1. Add the ground beef (or chicken), panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and chopped green onions.
2. Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can lead to dense meatballs.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands or a small scoop:
– Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
– Place them on a plate or baking sheet while you prepare your cooking surface.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
You can choose between baking or frying:
– If baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and arrange meatballs on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes.
– If frying: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook until browned on all sides.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
While cooking:
– In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic and ginger.
– Bring it to a simmer and stir in cornstarch mixed with water until thickened.
Step 5: Serve with Spicy Mayo Dip
For the dip:
– In a small bowl combine mayonnaise with gochujang, lime juice, honey and garlic powder.
– Stir well until smooth.
Serve your Korean BBQ meatballs warm drizzled with glaze and alongside spicy mayo dip garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions! Enjoy!
How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
These Korean BBQ meatballs are versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.
As an Appetizer
- Serve the meatballs on toothpicks for easy eating.
- Pair with the spicy mayo dip in small bowls for dipping.
In a Rice Bowl
- Place the meatballs over steamed rice.
- Drizzle extra sauce and top with chopped green onions for added flavor.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Use large lettuce leaves as wraps.
- Add sliced cucumbers and shredded carrots for a crunchy texture.
With Noodles
- Toss the meatballs with cooked noodles.
- Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas for a colorful dish.

How to Perfect Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
To make your Korean BBQ meatballs truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the flavors significantly.
- Avoid overmixing: Gently combine the ingredients to keep the meatballs tender.
- Adjust spice levels: Modify the gochujang amount to suit your heat preference.
- Let them rest: Allow cooked meatballs to sit briefly before serving for better flavor absorption.
Best Side Dishes for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Pairing side dishes with your Korean BBQ meatballs can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Kimchi: This fermented cabbage adds a tangy crunch that complements the meatballs.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious balance to the rich flavors.
- Rice Cakes: Chewy rice cakes are perfect for soaking up extra sauce from the meatballs.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds brightness and crunch to your meal.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory meatballs.
- Sesame Spinach Salad: This simple salad brings a nutty flavor that enhances your dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can make your meatballs tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Skipping the breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add texture and help bind the meat. Don’t skip them or substitute with regular bread crumbs.
- Not chilling the mixture: If you don’t chill the meatball mixture before cooking, they may not hold their shape. Allow them to sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
- Ignoring spice levels: Adjust gochujang to match your heat preference. Taste the mixture before forming meatballs to ensure it’s to your liking.
- Neglecting garnishes: Garnishes like sesame seeds and chopped green onions enhance flavor and presentation. Be sure to include them when serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow meatballs to cool before refrigerating to prevent condensation.
Freezing Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently until warmed evenly.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to keep moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef or chicken?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that will still provide delicious flavor while being leaner.
How do I make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip gluten-free?
Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use tamari instead of soy sauce.
What can I serve with Korean BBQ Meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with rice, steamed vegetables, or as part of a larger appetizer spread.
How spicy are these meatballs?
The spice level largely depends on how much gochujang you add. Feel free to adjust it according to your preference for heat.
Final Thoughts
These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are perfect for any occasion, whether as an appetizer or main dish. Their versatility allows for customization; try adding different herbs or spices based on your taste. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 18 meatballs 1x
Description
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a delicious fusion of flavors that will elevate any gathering. These savory meatballs feature a perfect blend of sweetness and spice, thanks to ingredients like gochujang and sesame oil. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, main course, or snack, they are sure to impress your guests. Accompanied by a creamy spicy mayo dip, these meatballs not only taste great but also look stunning on any platter.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or chicken)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon gochujang
- ¼ cup soy sauce (for glaze)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (for dip)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, panko breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, soy sauce, gochujang, and seasonings. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes or pan-fry in a skillet until browned and cooked through.
- Prepare the glaze by simmering soy sauce, honey, gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan until thickened.
- For the spicy mayo dip, mix mayonnaise with gochujang, lime juice, honey, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (120g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg





