Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

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These Korean BBQ meatballs are everything you crave in a single bite: juicy, sticky, savory, and just a little bit spicy. Coated in a rich BBQ glaze inspired by Korean flavors and paired with a cool, creamy spicy mayo dip, these meatballs make a stunning appetizer or a standout dinner when served with rice or noodles.

What makes these meatballs stand out is their tenderness and complexity. A combination of ground beef and breadcrumbs creates the perfect base, while ginger, garlic, and sesame oil add unmistakable depth. The sweet-and-savory glaze gives them a deliciously lacquered finish, and the dip brings the heat that ties it all together.

Why You’ll Love This Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

This dish is a flavor bomb that brings together the comfort of homemade meatballs with the thrill of bold Korean-style BBQ. They’re easy to prep ahead, ideal for meal prep, and bake beautifully in the oven with minimal fuss. Whether you’re planning game day snacks, a dinner party, or just want to spice up your weekly dinner menu, these meatballs will not disappoint.

Plus, the spicy mayo dip adds a creamy contrast that makes each bite irresistible. You can even adjust the spice level to your preference. Try serving them on skewers for a party-ready appetizer or pair with rice bowls for a fast weeknight meal.

Can I Use a Different Meat Instead of Beef?

Absolutely. While ground beef gives a rich and juicy texture, you can easily swap it for ground chicken or turkey for a leaner version. Pork works beautifully too, especially if you’re aiming for maximum flavor. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as leaner meats may cook slightly faster and dry out if overbaked.

Ingredients for the Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

To get the best texture and flavor, the ingredients for these Korean BBQ meatballs need to strike a perfect balance between moisture, spice, and umami. Each one plays a role in building layers of flavor.

• Ground beef
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Green onions
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Brown sugar
• Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• Rice vinegar
• Honey
• Mayonnaise
• Sriracha or hot sauce
• Salt and pepper
• Vegetable oil

How To Make the Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Step 1: Prep the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, sliced green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently until fully combined but avoid overworking the meat.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

Form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes or until browned and cooked through.

Step 3: Make the BBQ Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, stir together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and honey. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Toss the cooked meatballs in the warm glaze until evenly coated.

Step 4: Whip Up the Spicy Mayo Dip

In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with sriracha (or your preferred hot sauce) and a touch of sesame oil. Adjust spice to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the glazed meatballs with a drizzle of sesame seeds and green onions for garnish. Serve the spicy mayo on the side for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy hot!

Serving and Storing These Meatballs

This recipe makes enough to serve about 4 to 6 people, depending on how you’re presenting them. For appetizers, it stretches a little further, especially when served with toothpicks and a variety of dips. If you’re using these meatballs for a meal, they pair beautifully over steamed jasmine rice or alongside sautéed vegetables.

To store leftovers, place the meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them (glazed or unglazed) for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through—adding a splash of water or extra glaze can help keep them moist.

What to Serve With Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

A bowl of fluffy white rice soaks up all the extra BBQ glaze and is the most traditional pairing.

Pickled Cucumbers

These offer a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich and sticky meatballs, cutting through the sweetness with a tangy bite.

Garlic Noodles

Buttery, garlicky noodles make an indulgent base or side, especially if you’re aiming for a comfort-style meal.

Korean Kimchi

Fermented and spicy, kimchi brings brightness and crunch, plus it adds probiotic goodness to the plate.

Lettuce Wraps

Try wrapping the meatballs in butter lettuce with rice, kimchi, and spicy mayo for a refreshing, hand-held twist.

Roasted Broccoli

A simple veggie side that roasts up crispy in the oven while your meatballs bake—easy and nutritious.

Sweet Potato Fries

For a fusion spin, pair them with crispy sweet potato fries that complement the glaze’s sweetness.

Sesame Cabbage Slaw

Crunchy and refreshing, this slaw brings color and texture, plus it’s great for feeding a crowd.

Want More Appetizer Ideas with a Kick?

If you loved these tender Korean BBQ meatballs, there’s a whole world of bold flavors waiting for you to explore. Here are more recipes from MiaPlates.com to add to your list:

• Crispy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls for a crunchy, cheesy bite with just the right amount of heat.
• Cheesy Chicken Fritters when you want juicy chicken wrapped in golden crispness.
• Meaty Texas Trash Dip for a layered hot dip that’s always a hit at parties.
• Loaded Tater Tots piled high with flavor for the ultimate comfort snack.
• One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni if you’re in the mood to make your appetizer night into a full-on feast.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you make it spicier? Serve it over noodles? Or maybe as sliders? I’d love to hear your twist.

Explore beautifully curated, bold-flavored bites and weeknight dinners on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and find your next favorite dish today!

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