Name: Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip: Unforgettable Flavor!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground meat (beef/pork/chicken) (Can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.); 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (Panko can be used for extra crunch.); 1 large egg (Can substitute with flaxseed meal or applesauce for an egg-free alternative.); 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped) (Shallots may be used for a milder taste.); 2 cloves garlic (minced) (Fresh garlic is preferred over powder.); 2 tablespoons soy sauce (Tamari or coconut aminos can be used for gluten-free.); 1 tablespoon brown sugar (Honey can be used as a natural sweetener substitute.); 1 teaspoon sesame oil (May omit if not available.); 1 tablespoon chili sauce (Adjust to taste or substitute with sriracha.); 1/2 cup mayo (Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.); 2 tablespoons sriracha (Adjust based on heat preference.)

As I flipped through my favorite cookbook, a tantalizing recipe for Korean BBQ meatballs instantly caught my eye. Juicy, tender, and drizzled with a glossy, umami-rich glaze, these little bites are a delightful surprise that can transform any meal into a festive occasion. Paired with a creamy spicy mayo dip, they are not just a simple appetizer but also a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for both game days and family dinners. Best of all, this beginner-friendly recipe allows you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Are you ready to dive into the world of flavorful, homemade meatballs?

Why are these meatballs so irresistible?

Juicy and Flavorful: These Korean BBQ meatballs are packed with flavor, delivering a delightful umami punch that will keep you coming back for more.

Beginner-Friendly: Even novice cooks will find this recipe simple and stress-free, making it ideal for anyone wanting to create a delicious homemade dish.

Versatile Dish: Whether served as an appetizer, in a rice bowl, or as part of a hearty salad, these meatballs can adapt to any meal. Try pairing them with Garlic Butter Sauce for an extra flavor boost!

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for game days or family gatherings, everyone will enjoy the sweet and spicy kick from the creamy mayo dip.

Quick to Prepare: In under 30 minutes, you’ll have these delectable bites ready to impress your guests or family, allowing more time for fun and enjoyment!

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Ingredients

For the Meatballs

Ground Meat (Beef/Pork/Chicken) – This is the main protein that makes these Korean BBQ meatballs juicy and flavorful; substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
Breadcrumbs – They provide structure and help bind the meatballs; you can use panko for extra crunch.
Egg – Serves as a binder to keep everything together; for an egg-free alternative, try flaxseed meal or applesauce.
Onion (finely chopped) – Adds moisture and flavor; shallots can be used if you prefer a milder taste.
Garlic (minced) – Enhances the savory flavor of the meatballs; fresh garlic is always a better choice than powder for depth.
Soy Sauce – This key ingredient adds umami and saltiness; tamari or coconut aminos work well for a gluten-free option.
Brown Sugar – Balances out the saltiness and brings out the flavors; honey is a great natural sweetener substitute.
Sesame Oil – Adds a lovely toasted nutty flavor; if you don’t have it, feel free to omit.
Chili Sauce – Injects heat and flavor into the meatballs and mayo dip; adjust to taste or swap in sriracha.

For the Spicy Mayo Dip

Mayo – This is the base for your creamy dip; Greek yogurt can be substituted for a lighter version.
Sriracha – Gives the dip its spicy kick; adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

Now that you have these flavorful Korean BBQ meatballs with spicy mayo dip ingredients lined up, get ready to create a dish that will impress your family and friends!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of your choice of ground meat with ¾ cup of breadcrumbs, 1 beaten egg, ½ cup finely chopped onion, 2 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1 tablespoon chili sauce. Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands, scoop out portions of the meat mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Aim for uniform size so they cook evenly. Place the shaped meatballs on a clean plate or a baking tray lined with parchment paper, making sure they aren’t touching one another, which helps maintain their shape during cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Choose your preferred cooking method: for pan-frying, heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through. If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the meatballs on a lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through for even cooking.

Step 4: Make the Korean BBQ Glaze
While the meatballs are cooking, combine ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon chili sauce in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 5: Coat the Meatballs
Once the meatballs are done cooking, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the prepared Korean BBQ glaze over them while they’re still warm. Gently toss the meatballs until they are fully coated in the sweet and spicy glaze, creating a deliciously sticky finish that complements the Korean BBQ meatballs beautifully.

Step 6: Make the Spicy Mayo Dip
In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise and 2 tablespoons of sriracha until smooth. Taste the mixture and adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your heat preference. This creamy dip will perfectly balance the spiciness of the meatballs and add a delightful creamy texture to each bite.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Arrange the glazed Korean BBQ meatballs on a serving platter, and if desired, drizzle some extra glaze on top for garnish. Serve the meatballs warm alongside the spicy mayo dip, perfect for dipping. Enjoy your meal with family and friends, watching as they savor each flavorful bite!

Storage Tips for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the meatballs fresh while allowing the flavors to meld even more.

Freezer: Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: For the best texture, reheat meatballs in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. You can microwave them, but they may lose some crispiness.

Spicy Mayo Dip Storage: Keep any leftover spicy mayo dip in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. Stir well before serving again to recombine the ingredients.

Expert Tips for Korean BBQ Meatballs

Perfectly Uniform Size: Ensure meatballs are the same size for even cooking; about 1 inch in diameter works well for all cooking methods.

Avoid Overcrowding: When cooking, leave space between meatballs in the pan or air fryer to ensure they brown beautifully and cook evenly.

Check Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer; meatballs should reach 165°F for safety and the best texture in your Korean BBQ meatballs with spicy mayo dip.

Marinate for More Flavor: Let the meatball mixture rest for 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavors; this extra step can elevate your dish.

Adjust Spiciness: Tailor the chili sauce and sriracha amounts to your heat preference for the mayo dip, allowing everyone to enjoy their meal just how they like it.

Make Ahead Options

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the meatball mixture and shape the balls up to 24 hours in advance—simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. If you want to go even further, you can cook the meatballs and coat them in the BBQ glaze, refrigerating them for up to 3 days. To serve, just reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. The spicy mayo dip can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge, ensuring you have a delicious, ready-to-go meal with minimal fuss on busy nights!

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize this delicious dish to match your taste buds and dietary preferences!

Meat Mix: Combine ground beef, pork, and chicken for an exciting depth of flavor. The balance of meats can really elevate the overall taste experience.
Herb Twist: Add fresh cilantro or green onions to the meat mixture for a refreshing pop. It not only enhances flavor but also brightens up your presentations!
Pork Alternative: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version without sacrificing moisture. The result is just as delicious and slightly healthier for any meal.
Crunch Factor: Swap out regular breadcrumbs for crispy panko for an extra satisfying crunch in every bite. This little twist can turn ordinary meatballs into something extraordinary!
Flavor Depth: Experiment with additional spices like ginger or sesame seeds for added warmth and nuttiness. A dash of ginger can transport your taste buds straight to Korea!
Heat Adjustments: Substitute chili sauce with sriracha or Korean gochujang for varying heat levels. Play around with different sauces to discover your preferred balance of spice.
Switch the Dip: Trade the spicy mayo for a sweet chili sauce or a tangy yogurt dip for a different taste experience. Each dip can bring out unique flavors in the meatballs—don’t hesitate to try them all!
Bowl Upgrade: Serve the meatballs over a bed of rice or quinoa, topped with veggies and avocado for a complete meal. This transforms your appetizer into a satisfying main dish perfect for lunch or dinner!

If you enjoy the umami flavors of these meatballs, consider trying them with a side of Sizzling Chinese Pepper or a delicious High Protein BBQ option for even more culinary fun!

What to Serve with Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that offer a symphony of flavors and textures to complement these scrumptious meatballs.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy, it acts as a perfect canvas to soak up the sticky BBQ glaze, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Crispy Asian Slaw: Tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, this crunchy side adds freshness and contrast, making every bite exciting. It’s a refreshing companion that cuts through the richness of the meatballs.
Sesame Garlic Noodles: These savory noodles are infused with umami flavors, bringing a comforting element to your meal that pairs wonderfully with the spicy mayo dip.
Roasted Broccoli: Lightly seasoned and roasted to perfection, it adds a satisfying crunch and vibrant color, creating a lovely contrast on your plate.
Kimchi: For those who love a zesty kick, this fermented delight adds a bold, tangy flavor that nicely complements the sweet and spicy profile of the meatballs.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, this salad offers a delightful crunch that enhances the overall meal experience. Its coolness will be a great palate cleanser with the spicy notes of the dish.
Light Beer or Soju: A crisp, light beer or a smooth glass of soju provides a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the meatballs, making it an enjoyable pairing.
Mango Sorbet: As a delightful dessert, this light and fruity treat rounds off the meal splendidly, cleansing your palate with every spoonful.
Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea can provide a soothing finish, aiding digestion while offering a calm and earthy end to a flavorful feast.

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ground meat for the meatballs?
Absolutely! When choosing ground meat for your Korean BBQ meatballs, look for fresh cuts. Ground beef typically offers rich flavor, while ground pork adds moisture. If you prefer a healthier option, ground turkey is a great choice. Aim for meat with a fat content of around 80/20 for a juicy texture.

How should I store leftover meatballs, and how long will they last?
Very! To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will keep for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to enjoy them later, you can freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool them completely before popping them into a zip-top bag for freezing.

What’s the best way to reheat the frozen meatballs?
Absolutely! To reheat your frozen Korean BBQ meatballs, remove them from the freezer and thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, preheat your oven to 350°F, place the meatballs on a baking tray, and warm them for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps maintain their moisture and avoids sogginess.

Can I adjust the spice level in the spicy mayo dip?
The more the merrier! Adjusting the spice level in the mayo dip is very easy! Start with 2 tablespoons of sriracha for a mild kick, and taste as you go. If you’d like more heat, gradually add more sriracha until you find your perfect balance. You can also replace sriracha with a milder sauce if desired.

What should I do if my meatballs are drying out during cooking?
Not to worry! If you find that your meatballs are drying out, consider marinating the mixture for about 30 minutes before cooking. Adding moisture through an extra egg or a splash of soy sauce can enhance juiciness as well. Lastly, monitor cooking times precisely, as over-cooking can lead to dryness.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Definitely! To make these Korean BBQ meatballs suitable for gluten-free diets, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari in place of soy sauce. Additionally, ensure your chili sauce is gluten-free; many brands offer gluten-free options that pack the same flavorful punch!