Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are juicy and tender bite-sized meatballs infused with classic Korean BBQ flavors, paired with a creamy, spicy mayo that balances heat and coolness perfectly. Ideal as a party appetizer or versatile meal option, this recipe is easy to prepare and customizable to your preferred spice level and dietary preferences.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 meatballs 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Pan-frying or Baking
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free breadcrumbs are used)
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef or pork (or preferred blend)
- 2 tbsp gochujang paste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
- 1 large egg
Spicy Mayo Dip
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 tbsp sriracha or favorite chili sauce (adjust to taste)
Garnishes (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Extra chopped green onions
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat with gochujang, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, brown sugar, chopped green onions, panko breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix gently but thoroughly to blend the flavors without overworking the meat.
- Shape the Meatballs: Use your hands to roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, to ensure even cooking and perfect bite-sized portions.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and fully cooked inside, approximately 10-12 minutes total. Alternatively, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes for a lighter version.
- Make the Spicy Mayo Dip: While the meatballs cook, mix mayonnaise with sriracha or chili sauce, adjusting the amount to reach your preferred spice level. Keep the dip chilled until serving.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the meatballs with a generous dollop of spicy mayo. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions on top for a fresh and nutty finish.
Notes
- Don’t overmix: Mixing the meatball ingredients just enough ensures tender, juicy meatballs without toughness.
- Use a kitchen scale: For uniform meatballs and even cooking, weigh each portion before shaping.
- Toast sesame seeds: Lightly toast in a dry pan to enhance flavor and add crunch.
- Make the dip ahead: Prepare the spicy mayo in advance to allow flavors to meld.
- Freezing tips: Freeze cooked meatballs individually on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, cover loosely to prevent drying, and warm mayo dip separately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs with 2 tbsp dip
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Korean BBQ meatballs, spicy mayo dip, party appetizer, Korean recipe, easy meatball recipe, gluten-free option