Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Name: Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 teaspoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon sugar

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Deliciously savory Korean BBQ meatballs paired with a creamy and spicy mayo dip, perfect for appetizers or a fun meal.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-09T17:21:32.224Z

These Korean BBQ meatballs are a delightful fusion of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Seoul. The spicy mayo dip adds a perfect kick, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy and flavorful meatballs bursting with Korean BBQ sauce
Creamy spicy mayo dip that complements the meatballs perfectly
A fun and interactive dish that's great for gatherings

      

The Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion

Korean BBQ Meatballs are a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, bringing a burst of flavor that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together, a game day party, or a family dinner, these meatballs serve as a perfect appetizer or main dish. Their unique taste profile, influenced by the sweet and savory notes of Korean cuisine, makes them stand out from typical meatball recipes.

The combination of ingredients, including ground beef, green onions, and a rich soy sauce marinade, results in juicy meatballs that are not only satisfying but also incredibly delicious. Pairing them with a creamy and spicy mayo dip elevates the dining experience, transforming simple meatballs into a gourmet treat.

A Flavorful Journey

Cooking these Korean BBQ Meatballs takes you on a culinary journey to the vibrant streets of Seoul. The use of gochujang, a staple in Korean cooking, adds a depth of flavor that is both spicy and slightly sweet. It’s this unique ingredient that sets these meatballs apart, making them a favorite for anyone who enjoys bold flavors.

The preparation is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to create a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant. Each step is designed to maximize flavor, from mixing the meatball ingredients to baking them to perfection.

Perfect for Sharing

These meatballs are not just delicious; they're also a fun dish to share. Serve them on a large platter with toothpicks for easy snacking, encouraging everyone to dig in and enjoy. The interactive nature of the dish makes it a hit at parties, where guests can personalize their experience by adjusting the amount of spicy mayo they use.

In addition to being a crowd-pleaser, Korean BBQ Meatballs are versatile. They can be served as an appetizer, a main course with rice, or even in a wrap. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these tasty Korean BBQ meatballs and spicy mayo dip:

For the Meatballs

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

For the Spicy Mayo Dip

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar

Once you have all the ingredients prepared, you are ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Korean BBQ meatballs and spicy mayo dip:

Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, egg, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes or until cooked through and browned.

Make the Spicy Mayo Dip

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar until smooth and creamy.

Serve

Serve the meatballs warm with the spicy mayo dip on the side. Enjoy!

Now that your dish is ready, dig in and savor the flavors!

Tips for Success

To ensure your meatballs are perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This guarantees that they are safe to eat and still juicy. Additionally, avoid overmixing the meatball mixture to keep them tender and light.

If you want to add more flavor, consider incorporating finely chopped vegetables or herbs into the meatball mixture. Ingredients like grated carrots or cilantro can enhance the taste and add a nutritional boost.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They also freeze well; simply place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them again, thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

The spicy mayo dip can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving to ensure the ingredients are well combined. This makes it easy to prepare for meal prep or to have on hand for a quick snack.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different proteins for your meatballs. Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you're looking for a lighter option. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, so keep an eye on them as they bake.

For those who enjoy additional heat, consider adding chopped fresh chilies or extra gochujang to the meatball mixture or the dipping sauce. This will give your dish an extra kick and cater to spice lovers in your group.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, ground chicken or turkey can be used for a lighter option.

→ How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them before baking.

→ What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with rice, noodles, or as appetizers at a party.