These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are tender, juicy, and packed with umami from a flavorful marinade. The glaze is sticky, slightly charred, and caramelized to perfection, while the spicy mayo dip adds a creamy, fiery kick. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a party snack, or even a main dish over rice, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. 

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

1. For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 green onions, finely chopped

2. For the Korean BBQ Glaze:

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp gochujang
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken)

3. For the Spicy Mayo Dip:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp gochujang
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp honey
• ½ tsp garlic powder

4. For Garnish:

• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions

Directions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and chopped green onions. Mix gently until just combined.
   
2. Shape the Meatballs: Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
   
3. Cook the Meatballs: Pan-frying method: Heat oil in a large skillet and cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes). Baking method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 18-20 minutes. Air fryer method: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
4. Make the Korean BBQ Glaze: In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Simmer over medium heat, then stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken.
   
5. Coat the Meatballs: Toss the cooked meatballs in the warm glaze until fully coated.
   
6. Make the Spicy Mayo Dip: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, gochujang, lime juice, honey, and garlic powder until smooth.
   
7. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving plate, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, and serve with the spicy mayo dip.
   

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 7g

The Flavor Profile of Korean BBQ Meatballs

Korean BBQ Meatballs are a delightful fusion of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, embodying the essence of Korean cuisine. The combination of soy sauce, gochujang (Korean chili paste), brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil creates a deep, umami-rich taste. These meatballs offer a balance between caramelized sweetness and a hint of smokiness, thanks to the Korean BBQ glaze. The spicy mayo dip enhances the experience with its creamy texture and a fiery kick, making every bite an explosion of flavors.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

Korean BBQ meatballs stand out because they combine the best elements of traditional Korean flavors with a universally loved dish—meatballs. Unlike Italian-style meatballs, which are typically served in tomato sauce, or Swedish meatballs with a creamy gravy, these meatballs have a sticky, flavorful glaze that coats them in a delicious umami sauce. The addition of gochujang gives them a unique spiciness that is not overpowering but instead enhances the overall depth of the dish. Another standout feature is the use of sesame oil and ginger, both of which bring warmth and nuttiness to the dish. The meatballs remain juicy and tender, thanks to the perfect balance of breadcrumbs and egg as binding agents. Whether you are a fan of Korean cuisine or just looking for a new way to enjoy meatballs, this recipe is sure to impress.

How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs

These meatballs are highly versatile and can be served in various ways depending on the occasion. Here are some serving ideas:

• As an Appetizer: Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks and a side of spicy mayo dip for easy snacking. They make an excellent party appetizer and are perfect for game nights or family gatherings.
• Over Rice or Noodles: Serve the glazed meatballs over a bed of steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or even fried rice. They also pair wonderfully with stir-fried noodles or ramen.
• In Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, wrap the meatballs in crisp lettuce leaves with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
• With a Side Salad: Pair them with a fresh cucumber or carrot salad to balance the richness of the dish with a refreshing crunch.
• In a Sandwich or Slider: These meatballs can be placed in small buns with shredded cabbage and a drizzle of spicy mayo for a delicious Korean BBQ slider.

The Role of Gochujang in This Dish

One of the most important ingredients in this recipe is gochujang. Gochujang is a staple in Korean cuisine, known for its deep red color, thick texture, and bold flavor. It is made from red chili pepper flakes, fermented soybeans, glutinous rice, and salt, which contribute to its sweet, spicy, and slightly smoky taste. Gochujang not only adds heat but also enhances the meatballs with its fermented umami quality. Because of its thick consistency, it also helps create the perfect glaze for coating the meatballs. If you love Korean flavors, keeping a jar of gochujang in your pantry will allow you to explore many more delicious dishes.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

There are many reasons to try this Korean BBQ meatball recipe, whether you are a seasoned cook or just starting to explore global flavors.

• Quick and Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
• Customizable Heat Level: You can adjust the amount of gochujang or add a bit of honey to balance the spice level to your preference.
• Great for Meal Prep: These meatballs store well in the fridge and can be reheated for a quick meal throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: Despite the spice from the gochujang, the sweetness of the glaze makes them appealing to both kids and adults.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, these meatballs store well in the refrigerator or freezer.

• Refrigeration: Store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little water to keep them moist.
• Freezing: Place the cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat them in a pan with the glaze.

Pairing Korean BBQ Meatballs with Other Dishes

To make a complete meal, you can pair these meatballs with other Korean-inspired side dishes:

• Kimchi Fried Rice: The tanginess of kimchi fried rice complements the sweet and spicy flavors of the meatballs.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, bok choy, or carrots lightly steamed and tossed with sesame oil make a great side.
• Pickled Vegetables: Quick-pickled cucumbers or radishes add a refreshing contrast to the rich meatballs.
• Korean Corn Cheese: This cheesy, slightly sweet dish balances the bold flavors of the meatballs.

Conclusion

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings bold and authentic flavors to your table. The combination of savory meatballs, a sticky Korean BBQ glaze, and a creamy yet spicy dipping sauce makes them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a main dish, or a meal prep option, they are sure to impress your family and friends. These meatballs highlight the beauty of Korean cuisine, blending umami-rich ingredients into a simple yet flavorful dish. If you love experimenting with different flavors and textures, this recipe is a must-try.