Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe

Sweet, savory, and a little bit sassy—these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Zesty Mayo Dip are absolute showstoppers! Juicy beef meatballs are glazed in a sticky, flavorful Korean-inspired sauce, then paired with a creamy, spicy mayo that’s completely irresistible. Whether you’re hosting friends or craving a fun family dinner idea, this recipe is bound to steal the spotlight at your table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Zesty Mayo Dip is that every ingredient truly counts—from the umami-rich soy sauce to the gentle heat of gochujang and the creamy finish from the dip. Don’t be intimidated; each component here plays a starring role for the juiciest, most flavorful meatballs you’ll ever make!

• Ground beef (or beef/pork mix): The foundation of the meatballs, giving them rich flavor and succulent texture. A blend of beef and pork yields extra juiciness, but pure beef is fantastic too.
• Panko breadcrumbs: These keep the meatballs tender and prevent them from drying out. Regular breadcrumbs work in a pinch, but panko gives the lightest result.
• Egg: Acts as a binder, holding everything together for the perfect bite.
• Garlic & green onions: Fresh, aromatic bursts of flavor that scream classic Korean BBQ.
• Soy sauce: Both in the meatballs and the glaze, it infuses delicious saltiness and savoriness.
• Sesame oil: Just a dash brings a toasted, nutty aroma that’s iconic in Korean cooking.
• Ginger: Lends a zippy fragrant warmth with every bite—be sure to grate it freshly for the best flavor.
• Black pepper: Subtle heat that rounds out the meatball flavor.
• Brown sugar: Gives the glaze its sticky, shiny sweetness and helps everything caramelize just right.
• Rice vinegar: Balances out the glaze, keeping it punchy instead of cloying.
• Gochujang (Korean chili paste): Brings authentic heat and a complex sweet-salty-spicy kick to the glaze. Find it at any Asian grocer or in the international aisle.
• Cornstarch: Mixed with water to thicken the glaze just enough for irresistible meatball coating.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy canvas for your bold, zesty dipping sauce.
• Sriracha: Brings the pep to the mayo, letting you dial in your preferred level of heat.
• Lime juice: Adds tang for a truly zippy, balanced dip that cuts through the richness.
• Honey: A touch of sweetness to round out the spicy mayo and make it totally addictive.

Variations

Recipes like these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Zesty Mayo Dip are practically begging for a creative twist. Feel free to adapt them based on what you have on hand, your spice tolerance, or even dietary preferences—the possibilities are endless!

• Make it chicken or turkey: Swap the ground beef/pork for ground chicken or turkey to lighten things up. Just be careful not to overbake, as leaner meats cook faster.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce—it works beautifully!
• Level up the glaze: Add a tablespoon of orange juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the BBQ sauce for a citrusy-sweet or spicy punch.
• Vegetarian version: Try plant-based ground meat alternatives and vegan mayo for a fully meatless, dairy-free take on Korean BBQ Meatballs with Zesty Mayo Dip.

How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Zesty Mayo Dip

Step 1: Prep and Mix the Meatball Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a large bowl, add your ground beef (or beef/pork mix), panko, egg, minced garlic, chopped green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, and a pinch of black pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined—overmixing can make the meatballs tough, so keep things light and fluffy!

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Meatballs

Form the mixture into golf ball-sized rounds (about 1.5 inches each) and arrange them evenly on your prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, until they’re golden brown and cooked through—your kitchen will already start to smell amazing!

Step 3: Whip Up the Korean BBQ Glaze

While your meatballs are baking, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, gochujang, and sesame oil in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Once it’s bubbly, whisk in your cornstarch slurry (cornstarch and water mixed together) and simmer 1-2 more minutes until thick and glossy—this is your sticky, flavor-packed glaze!

Step 4: Glaze and Caramelize

Carefully toss your baked meatballs with the hot BBQ glaze, coating every nook and cranny. For extra flavor and a caramelized finish, return them to the oven for another 5 minutes—this little step sends the Korean BBQ taste right over the top!

Step 5: Mix Up That Zesty Mayo Dip

While the meatballs are caramelizing, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, lime juice, and honey in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the spice level to your liking—this luscious dip is the ideal tangy-spicy companion for your meatballs!

Step 6: Serve and Devour

Arrange your hot, glazed Korean BBQ Meatballs with Zesty Mayo Dip on a platter, drizzle them with the dip (or serve it on the side), and watch them disappear in no time. They’re delightful straight from the oven, but honestly, they’re even fabulous at room temperature—perfect for parties!

How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Zesty Mayo Dip

Garnishes

For the finishing touch, sprinkle your Korean BBQ Meatballs with Zesty Mayo Dip with sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions. Not only do these garnishes add visual pizzazz, but they also bring a lovely crunch and fresh flavor contrast—don’t skip them if you want that true restaurant-style flair!

Side Dishes

These meatballs are scrumptious alongside steamed jasmine rice, fluffy quinoa, or even tucked into little lettuce wraps for a lighter twist. Add a side of sautéed bok choy, kimchi, or crunchy Asian-style slaw to round things out with fresh, crisp textures—the contrast is unbeatable.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these into party-perfect appetizers by skewering each meatball and drizzling with the zesty mayo dip. Or, set up a DIY meatball slider bar with mini buns, sliced cucumber, and pickled veggies for a build-your-own feast! For a stunning platter, arrange the glazed meatballs in a ring around a bowl of dip, then scatter fresh herbs on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store the Korean BBQ Meatballs and Zesty Mayo Dip separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The meatballs will stay moist and flavorful for up to 4 days without any fuss.

Freezing

These meatballs freeze brilliantly! Once cooled, lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—freeze the dip in a separate airtight container, or whip up a fresh batch when ready to serve for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat the meatballs in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 10–12 minutes, or microwave in bursts for busy lunches. If reheating from frozen, no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes. The zesty mayo dip is best enjoyed chilled or brought to room temperature; give it a stir and you’re good to go!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

You’re officially ready to wow anyone who tries these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Zesty Mayo Dip—the kind of dish that makes every gathering feel special. Give them a try, play with the flavors, and don’t forget to make extra dip (trust me, it disappears fast!). Let’s get those plates saucy and those smiles big!

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