Looking for a flavor-packed appetizer or dinner idea? These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are juicy, tender, and coated in a sweet and savory Korean-style glaze, paired with a creamy, spicy dipping sauce that takes them to the next level.
Perfect for parties, family dinners, or game-day snacks, this recipe is easy, flavorful, and totally irresistible.
Why You’ll Love These Korean BBQ Meatballs
✔ Sweet, savory, and slightly spicy
✔ Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor
✔ Quick and easy to make for any occasion
✔ Perfect for appetizers, finger food, or meal prep
✔ Pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or salad
These Asian-inspired meatballs are addictive and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef or pork (or a mix)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Korean BBQ Sauce:
- 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
For the Spicy Mayo Dip:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Optional garnish: sesame seeds, chopped green onions
How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, salt, and pepper.
Form into 1-inch meatballs and place on a lined baking sheet.
Step 2: Bake the Meatballs
Bake meatballs for 15–20 minutes, until cooked through and lightly browned.
Step 3: Make the Korean BBQ Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and garlic.
Heat over medium-low for 2–3 minutes, stirring until smooth.
Step 4: Coat Meatballs
Toss the cooked meatballs in the Korean BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
Step 5: Make the Spicy Mayo Dip
Mix mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice in a small bowl.
Adjust heat to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Arrange meatballs on a platter and serve with spicy mayo on the side.
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Tips for the Best Korean BBQ Meatballs
- Use a mix of beef and pork for extra tenderness and flavor.
- Don’t overbake — meatballs stay juicier if slightly underdone and finished in the sauce.
- Gochujang can be adjusted for mild or extra spicy flavor.
- Serve immediately for best flavor, or keep warm in a low oven.
Easy Variations
1. Air Fryer Korean BBQ Meatballs
Air fry meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, tossing halfway through.
2. Sweet & Tangy Twist
Add pineapple juice to the BBQ sauce for extra sweetness and tang.
3. Low-Carb Version
Skip breadcrumbs or replace with almond flour.
4. Meal Prep-Friendly
Make a batch and store in airtight containers with sauce for easy lunches or dinners.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Sauce can be made ahead and reheated before tossing with meatballs.
- Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to maintain juiciness.