There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of savory and sweet flavors that dance in your mouth when you bite into a perfectly cooked Korean BBQ meatball. The tender meat mixed with aromatic spices creates a beautiful symphony of taste and texture that can instantly transform any meal into a feast. Imagine savoring that first succulent bite while the spicy mayo dip adds a delightful kick—pure bliss.
I remember the first time I served these Korean BBQ meatballs at our family barbecue. My cousin nearly tackled me for the last one. Whether it’s game night or a casual dinner with friends, these little balls of joy are always a hit. Their irresistible flavor and appealing presentation make them ideal for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Korean BBQ meatballs are super easy to prepare and bursting with flavor
- The vibrant colors and aroma are sure to impress guests
- They’re also versatile enough to serve as appetizers or main dishes
- Pair them with the spicy mayo dip for an unforgettable taste experience
Family and friends couldn’t stop raving about these tasty treats after I made them for a potluck.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best for juicy meatballs without too much grease.
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs to help bind the meat together and absorb moisture.
- Green Onions: Fresh green onions add crunch and flavor; chop them finely.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish’s aroma and adds rich flavor.
- Korean BBQ Sauce: Find your favorite brand or make your own for authentic taste.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while enhancing umami flavors.
- Sesame Oil: Just a dash brings nutty richness that complements the dish perfectly.
- Mayonnaise: Regular mayonnaise serves as the base of your spicy mayo dip—creamy goodness.
- Sriracha Sauce: Add this fiery condiment to your mayo for that extra kick.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dip and balances out its creaminess.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your meatballs cook evenly and achieve that lovely golden color.
Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and half of the Korean BBQ sauce. Mix gently until everything is well incorporated.
Shape Those Meatballs: With clean hands (you might want to wear gloves), scoop portions of the mixture and roll them into golf ball-sized meatballs. Place each on a parchment-lined baking sheet for even cooking.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Slide those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly.
Create Your Spicy Mayo Dip: While those delicious meatballs are baking, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lime juice, and remaining Korean BBQ sauce in a small bowl until smooth.
Serve & Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving alongside your spicy mayo dip. Dig in while they’re still warm.
Now you have scrumptious Korean BBQ meatballs paired with an irresistible spicy mayo dip ready to wow everyone at your next gathering.
You Must Know
- These Korean BBQ meatballs pack a flavorful punch, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in
- Their sweet and spicy profile will make your taste buds dance
- Serve them fresh, and watch as they disappear before your eyes
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the ground meat with seasonings, then form the meatballs. Bake them at 400°F for 20 minutes while preparing the spicy mayo dip.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken. Add minced garlic or ginger for an extra flavor kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance these Korean BBQ meatballs, use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture
- Don’t overmix the meat; it may become tough
- Always taste the mixture before baking to adjust seasoning as needed
Cooking these Korean BBQ meatballs reminds me of hosting a small gathering where everyone couldn’t stop raving about them. It felt like I was a culinary rockstar that night.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat for Korean BBQ meatballs?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or pork can also work wonderfully in this recipe.
What can I use if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers are great substitutes for panko.
How can I make the spicy mayo dip milder?
To tone down the heat, mix in more mayonnaise or add honey to balance it out.

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 20 servings
Description
Korean BBQ meatballs are a delectable combination of savory and sweet, served with a creamy spicy mayo dip. These bite-sized delights are perfect for impressing friends at any gathering.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef
- Breadcrumbs
- Green Onions
- Garlic
- Korean BBQ Sauce
- Soy Sauce
- Sesame Oil
- Mayonnaise
- Sriracha Sauce
- Lime Juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and half of the Korean BBQ sauce until well mixed.
- Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- For the spicy mayo dip, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lime juice, and remaining Korean BBQ sauce in a small bowl until smooth.
- Serve warm with the spicy mayo dip.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Enhance flavor by adding minced ginger or extra garlic. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat at 350°F for best results.