Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
If you’re craving something bold, flavorful, and just a little bit addictive, Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are about to become your new go-to recipe. Imagine juicy, tender meatballs glazed in a sweet-and-savory Korean BBQ sauce, then dunked into a creamy, spicy mayo that tingles on your tongue — it checks every box! Whether you’re planning a fun family dinner, prepping party appetizers, or just need a satisfying snack, this dish brings together all the best comforts of Korean-inspired cuisine Appetizer / Main Course.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip is that the ingredients are straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role. From the aromatic ginger to the nutty sesame oil, every component matters for taste, juiciness, and that signature hint of heat.
- Ground beef (or pork/beef blend): Rich and hearty, this is the main star for juicy, tender meatballs.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs keep things light and help bind everything together.
- Large egg: Provides structure so the meatballs hold their shape without drying out.
- Green onions, finely chopped: Bring a pop of fresh color and mild oniony bite.
- Garlic, minced: Adds that irresistible savory aroma and depth.
- Fresh ginger, grated: Brightens the flavor with a subtle zing — don’t skip it!
- Korean BBQ sauce (plus extra for glazing): Delivers signature sweet, smoky, and umami punches that set these meatballs apart.
- Sesame oil: Gives a quintessentially nutty, toasty aroma and authentic taste.
- Salt: Balances all the flavors and makes every ingredient shine.
- Black pepper: Adds just a touch of warmth and complexity.
- Sesame seeds for garnish: Tiny but mighty, they add eye appeal and little pops of texture.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base for your irresistible spicy mayo dip.
- Sriracha: Brings the heat and vibrant color to your dipping sauce.
- Rice vinegar: Cuts the richness with a spark of tang.
- Honey: Rounds out the dip with a hint of subtle sweetness.
How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper — this keeps the meatballs from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, so you can focus on the fun part: enjoying them!
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Mixture
Grab a large bowl and toss in your ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, ginger, Korean BBQ sauce, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined. The trick here is not to overmix, or your meatballs could turn out tough instead of juicy.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Using damp hands or a cookie scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls (you’ll get about 20 out of this batch). Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, making sure there’s a bit of space between each one so they cook evenly and get those lovely browned edges.
Step 4: Bake
Pop the tray in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. You’re aiming for meatballs that are cooked through and have picked up a little color. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing — it’s hard not to steal one right off the tray!
Step 5: Glaze and Finish
Pull the meatballs out, brush them generously with extra Korean BBQ sauce (this is where the magic happens), then slide them back into the oven for just 2 minutes. The sauce caramelizes slightly for a sticky, finger-licking glaze you simply can’t skip.
Step 6: Whisk Up the Spicy Mayo Dip
While the meatballs finish off, grab a small bowl and whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, rice vinegar, and honey until it’s smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust to your spice preference — this dip is the secret weapon that brings the whole dish together.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Arrange your hot Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip on a serving platter, scatter with toasted sesame seeds and extra sliced green onions. Serve the spicy mayo dip on the side for dunking, drizzling, or spooning liberally over everything in sight!
How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Garnishes
Add a generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and a flurry of sliced green onions just before serving. These simple garnishes not only brighten the plate but also complement the flavors and textures beautifully, giving your Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip that extra-special, restaurant-worthy appeal.
Side Dishes
For a meal that truly feels complete, try serving your meatballs over fluffy steamed jasmine or sticky rice, with quick-pickled cucumbers or shredded cabbage salad on the side. If you’re looking for party vibes, set out toothpicks and maybe a little pile of kimchi for guests to create their own perfect appetizer plates.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to take things to the next level, try packing your Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip into lettuce wraps for a fresh, hand-held treat, or skewer them for a playful party platter. For casual lunches, tuck the meatballs into slider buns with a spoonful of the dip — think mini Korean BBQ sandwiches that everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover meatballs keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store the spicy mayo dip separately for optimal freshness, and you’ll have quick, tasty protein ready to go all week long.
Freezing
Once baked and cooled, slide your Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip into a freezer-safe zip bag or container (without the dip, which should always be made fresh). Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To revive that just-baked flavor, reheat the meatballs in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, or microwave gently until hot. Give them a quick brush with fresh BBQ sauce for bonus glaze and moisture right before serving.
FAQs
Can I make these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! You can shape the meatballs and keep them covered in the fridge, or even bake them off a day ahead. Just reheat before serving and whisk up the spicy mayo dip at the last minute for maximum freshness.
What protein works best for these meatballs?
Both ground beef and a pork/beef blend work fantastic here. The pork adds extra juiciness, while all-beef keeps things hearty — go with whichever you prefer or have on hand.
Can I cook the meatballs in an air fryer?
Definitely! Air frying at 375°F for 10–12 minutes yields meatballs that are slightly crispier outside and still tender inside. Don’t forget to brush with BBQ sauce and finish with a quick blast in the air fryer for that glossy glaze.
Is there a way to make the spicy mayo dip less spicy?
For a milder sauce, simply reduce the sriracha or add a little extra mayo and honey until you reach your perfect heat level. The dip is super customizable to suit any spice preference.
What else can I use the spicy mayo dip for?
Save any extra dip! It’s incredible as a spread on sandwiches, a drizzle over grain bowls, or even as a salad dressing. Trust me, you’ll be reaching for it long after the meatballs are gone.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip have a way of stealing the show. Their irresistible flavor and fun presentation make them a favorite every single time. I can’t wait for you to try these — don’t be surprised when everyone asks for the recipe. Enjoy every delicious bite!
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Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 20 meatballs (4–6 servings) 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Korean BBQ meatballs are packed with flavor and served with a deliciously spicy mayo dip. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these meatballs are a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or pork/beef blend)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons Korean BBQ sauce (plus extra for glazing)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
For the Spicy Mayo Dip:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon honey
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix meatball ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, panko, egg, green onions, garlic, ginger, Korean BBQ sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Shape into 1-inch meatballs and place on baking sheet.
- Bake meatballs: Bake for 15–18 minutes until cooked through and browned. Glaze with extra BBQ sauce and bake for 2 more minutes.
- Prepare dip: Whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, rice vinegar, and honey until smooth.
- Serve: Serve meatballs hot with spicy mayo dip, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Notes
- You can air fry the meatballs for a crispier texture at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
- These meatballs are great as an appetizer or served over steamed rice as a main dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs with dip
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 510 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
