Julia Walton
If you’re looking for a game-changing appetizer or party snack, these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip will become your new favorite. Juicy, tender meatballs glazed in a sweet and savory Korean BBQ sauce are balanced perfectly with a creamy, spicy mayo that adds just the right amount of heat. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it impossible to stop at just one.
Perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or as a quick dinner option, these meatballs are both comforting and exciting. Whether served with toothpicks for easy snacking or over steamed rice for a complete meal, they’re sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
What Makes These Korean BBQ Meatballs So Good?
The secret is in the glaze. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating that sticky-sweet coating that Korean BBQ is famous for. Add to that the creamy, spicy mayo dip that balances the sweetness with a kick of heat, and you’ve got an irresistible flavor combo.
Ingredients for the Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Ground beef or pork – The base of these meatballs; use beef for a hearty flavor or pork for extra tenderness.
- Breadcrumbs – Help hold everything together and keep the meatballs soft and juicy.
- Egg – Acts as a binder, ensuring the meatballs hold their shape.
- Garlic & ginger – Essential for that authentic Korean BBQ depth of flavor.
- Soy sauce & sesame oil – Create the signature umami-rich Korean BBQ taste.
- Brown sugar – Adds the sweet caramelized notes that balance the savory elements.
- Green onions – Add freshness and a mild onion bite.
- Spicy mayo (mayonnaise & sriracha) – The creamy dipping sauce that gives these meatballs their fiery kick.
How To Make the Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Step 1: Mix the Meatball Base
In a large bowl, combine ground beef or pork, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and finely chopped green onions. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined—overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Scoop out about 1 to 1 ½ tablespoons of the mixture and roll into bite-sized balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 15–18 minutes or until cooked through and slightly browned.
Step 4: Make the Korean BBQ Glaze
While the meatballs bake, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until it thickens slightly into a glossy glaze.
Step 5: Toss in the Glaze
Remove the meatballs from the oven and gently toss them in the warm glaze until fully coated. Return them to the baking sheet and broil for 2–3 minutes to caramelize.
Step 6: Prepare the Spicy Mayo Dip
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and sriracha until smooth. Adjust the heat level by adding more or less sriracha to taste.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the glazed meatballs on a serving platter, sprinkle with extra chopped green onions, and serve with the spicy mayo dip on the side.
Serving and Storing Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
These meatballs are best served fresh out of the oven while they’re still warm and sticky. Place toothpicks in each for easy snacking at parties, or serve over steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a quick dinner. If you’re planning a meal prep, store the meatballs separately from the dip to keep them from getting soggy.
For storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or until heated through. The spicy mayo dip can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
What to Serve With Korean BBQ Meatballs?
1. Steamed Jasmine Rice
The perfect way to turn these meatballs into a satisfying meal.
2. Kimchi
A classic Korean side dish that adds a tangy, spicy contrast.
3. Asian Slaw
Crunchy and refreshing, this balances out the rich glaze.
4. Roasted Vegetables
Try roasted broccoli or bell peppers for a healthy side.
5. Garlic Fried Rice
For an extra garlicky kick, this pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory meatballs.
6. Pickled Cucumbers
Their crisp texture and tart flavor complement the sticky glaze.
7. Ramen or Udon Noodles
Serve these meatballs over noodles for a hearty, comfort-food dinner.
8. Korean Pancakes (Pajeon)
For a full Korean-inspired spread, add crispy scallion pancakes to the table.
Want More Appetizer Ideas?
If you loved these Korean BBQ Meatballs, here are some other irresistible bites you’ll enjoy:
• Jalapeno Popper Deviled Eggs for a spicy and creamy party favorite.
• Parmesan Baked Potatoes if you’re craving something crispy and cheesy.
• Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce for a rich, buttery seafood option.
• Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken when you want ultimate comfort food.
• Southern Deviled Eggs for a creamy Southern classic.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so you can make it anytime you’re craving a sweet and savory appetizer.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe added some extra heat or swapped the mayo for a yogurt-based dip? Share your ideas in the comments—I love hearing how you make it your own!
Need more inspiration? Check out my daily creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite recipe might be waiting there!
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Equipment
- baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 450 g ground beef or pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (glaze)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic minced (glaze)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (glaze)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions.
- Shape into balls and bake 15–18 minutes.
- Simmer soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil to make glaze.
- Toss baked meatballs in glaze, broil 2–3 minutes.
- Mix mayo and sriracha for dipping sauce.