Name: The Best Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons gochujang; 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for glaze); 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for glaze); 1 clove garlic, minced (for glaze); 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for glaze); 2 tablespoons water (for glaze); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon sriracha; 1 teaspoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds; 1 tablespoon chopped scallions (for garnish)

Sink your teeth into the bold, sweet, and savory flavor bomb that is The Best Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip. These bite-sized beauties are juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and slathered in a sticky Korean-inspired glaze that’s packed with garlic, ginger, soy, and a touch of heat. Paired with a creamy, spicy mayo dip, they’re impossible to resist.

Whether you’re throwing a game day party, planning a weeknight dinner, or looking for your next appetizer star, these meatballs have you covered. They deliver restaurant-level flavor with easy-to-find ingredients—making them as practical as they are addictive.

What Makes These Korean BBQ Meatballs So Irresistible?

It’s all about balance. These meatballs strike that perfect harmony between savory, sweet, spicy, and umami. Ground beef creates a rich base, while the addition of ginger, garlic, and sesame oil brings bold Korean flavors into play. The sticky glaze coats each meatball in a caramelized finish that begs to be dipped in creamy spicy mayo.

Ingredients for the Best Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Ground Beef
The juicy and flavorful foundation of your meatballs.

Breadcrumbs
They help bind the meatballs and give them structure.

Egg
Essential for holding everything together.

Garlic & Ginger (minced)
Aromatic and bold, these are the backbone of Korean flavor.

Green Onions
They add freshness and that signature pop of color.

Soy Sauce
For a salty umami punch.

Brown Sugar
Brings sweetness to balance the salt and spice.

Sesame Oil
A little goes a long way to add depth and nuttiness.

Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
Adds that classic spicy-sweet Korean heat.

Mayonnaise
For the creamy base of your dipping sauce.

Sriracha
Adds a bright, sharp heat to the spicy mayo.

Rice Vinegar
Just a touch adds tanginess to the dip.

Sesame Seeds & Extra Scallions
For garnish and a little crunch.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, minced ginger, chopped green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of brown sugar. Mix just until everything is incorporated.

Step 2: Roll and Bake

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch balls and place them evenly on the tray. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until fully cooked through and lightly browned.

Step 3: Make the Korean BBQ Glaze

While the meatballs are baking, whisk together soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, garlic, sesame oil, and a splash of water in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until thickened slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Coat the Meatballs

Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the glaze over the top. Toss gently until each meatball is evenly coated.

Step 5: Mix the Spicy Mayo Dip

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha, and rice vinegar until smooth and creamy. Adjust heat to taste.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Arrange meatballs on a platter, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped scallions, and serve with the spicy mayo dip on the side.

Serving and Storing Korean BBQ Meatballs

These Korean BBQ Meatballs are best served hot and fresh, especially when the glaze is sticky and caramelized. Serve them on a platter with toothpicks or skewers for party appetizers, or pair with jasmine rice and kimchi for a full meal.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the glaze.

What to Serve With Korean BBQ Meatballs?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

The ultimate base to soak up all that sticky sauce.

Kimchi

A tangy, fermented kick that cuts through the richness perfectly.

Pickled Cucumbers

Sweet and sour bites to refresh your palate.

Asian Slaw

Crisp, vibrant veggies tossed in a sesame-soy dressing add a lovely crunch.

Roasted Broccoli

Lightly charred and seasoned, it makes a healthy, no-fuss side.

Lettuce Wraps

For a low-carb option, wrap the meatballs in butter lettuce leaves.

Fried Rice

A hearty option to turn these meatballs into a full dinner.

Want More Flavor-Packed Appetizer Ideas?

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Savory Iowa Party Bites for easy entertaining with big flavor.

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Did you drizzle extra glaze on top? Add a dash of lime juice to your dip? Let me know how you made it yours!

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