Name: Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
Ingredients: 500g ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 2 green onions, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon gochujang; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon sriracha; 1 teaspoon rice vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon cooking oil

These tender Korean BBQ meatballs are the ultimate combination of sweet, savory, and spicy. Coated in a sticky, garlicky glaze with hints of soy and brown sugar, they hit every flavor note beautifully. The contrast of a spicy mayo dipping sauce alongside gives each bite a punch that balances the richness of the meatballs.

Perfect for game day appetizers, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, these meatballs hold their own at any table. They’re juicy inside, crispy around the edges, and packed with bold Korean-inspired flavors that are absolutely addictive.

Why You’ll Love This Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

These aren’t your average meatballs. The combination of fresh aromatics, sesame oil, and umami-rich ingredients gives them a unique taste that’s both familiar and exciting. The spicy mayo dip adds a creamy heat that complements the caramelized glaze, making them irresistible whether you eat them alone or serve them over rice.

They’re easy to make ahead, freezer-friendly, and come together quickly with simple pantry ingredients. Whether you’re a Korean food fan or just want a new way to spice up ground beef, this is the recipe that brings flavor with every bite.

What Kind of Ground Meat Works Best?

While ground beef is a classic base for these meatballs, ground pork or a combination of both gives them extra juiciness. If you want to go leaner, ground chicken or turkey also works but be sure to add a bit more sesame oil or a splash of milk to keep them tender. The key is not to overmix the meat and to bake or pan-fry them just until cooked through for that perfect texture.

Ingredients for the Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

The ingredients in this recipe build layers of flavor from savory to sweet and spicy. Each component plays an important role, from the meat to the glaze and the dipping sauce.

Ground beef
Breadcrumbs
Egg
Garlic
Ginger
Green onions
Soy sauce
Sesame oil
Brown sugar
Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
Mayonnaise
Sriracha or hot sauce
Rice vinegar
Salt
Black pepper
Cooking oil

Each bite of these meatballs benefits from the harmony of umami-rich soy and gochujang with the sweetness of brown sugar and depth from sesame oil. The spicy mayo dip—made from mayo, sriracha, and a dash of vinegar—adds a luscious kick on the side.

Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip 2

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

Step 1: Mix and Form the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, ginger, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined and form into bite-sized balls.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of cooking oil. Add the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally to brown on all sides. Cover and cook until fully cooked inside, about 8–10 minutes.

Step 3: Make the BBQ Glaze

In a small pan, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, gochujang, minced garlic, and a splash of water. Simmer over low heat until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Toss the cooked meatballs in this glaze until well coated.

Step 4: Whip Up the Spicy Mayo

Mix together mayonnaise, sriracha, and rice vinegar in a small bowl until smooth. Chill in the fridge while the meatballs cook.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Transfer glazed meatballs to a plate, sprinkle with chopped green onions or sesame seeds, and serve with spicy mayo on the side.

How to Serve and Store Korean BBQ Meatballs

These Korean BBQ meatballs are perfect for feeding a crowd. A single batch yields around 20 meatballs, making it ideal for 4 to 6 servings depending on whether you’re serving them as a main or appetizer. You can serve them hot with toothpicks for easy bites at parties or over steamed rice with pickled vegetables for a more filling meal.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or a skillet with a splash of water to keep them moist. You can also freeze the cooked meatballs without the glaze, then thaw and reheat in the sauce when ready.

What to Serve With Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

The sticky glaze begs to be soaked up by fluffy rice. It’s a simple side that completes the meal beautifully.

Pickled Cucumbers

Crisp, vinegary cucumbers bring freshness and cut through the richness of the meatballs.

Korean-Style Slaw

Shredded cabbage tossed in sesame oil, vinegar, and a touch of sugar makes a crunchy, cooling side.

Garlic Noodles

For a heartier plate, toss some egg noodles in garlic butter and soy for a comforting match.

Kimchi Fried Rice

Amp up the Korean flair with spicy, tangy kimchi fried rice as a base or on the side.

Lettuce Cups

Turn these meatballs into a handheld snack by wrapping them in butter lettuce with a drizzle of spicy mayo.

Grilled Pineapple

Sweet, charred pineapple is a delicious contrast to the savory meatballs.

Sesame Green Beans

Blistered green beans with sesame seeds add crunch and color to your plate.

Want More Meatball Ideas?

If you’re into these Korean BBQ flavors, you might want to explore other meatball creations from the blog:

Try the bold and vibrant flavors of the Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a healthy twist.
Make it hearty with Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole.
Bring cheesy comfort to your table with the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls & Creamy Parmesan Pasta.
Looking for something unique? These Melted Mozzarella Ranch Chicken Bombs bring a fun, cheesy surprise.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go for pork, beef, or a mix? Did you amp up the spice in your dip?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Tender Korean BBQ meatballs are the kind of dish that hits every craving. They’re sweet, savory, spicy, and perfect for any occasion. Pair them with rice or noodles, serve them at parties, or freeze a batch for busy nights. Once you try them, they’re sure to earn a regular spot in your dinner rotation.