Need a quick, bold dish that unites the table? Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo are juicy, savory Spicy Meatball Bites glazed with a sweet-spicy Korean sauce and paired with a creamy, zesty dip. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or cozy gatherings, these savory BBQ meatballs are easy to make and packed with umami. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a family meal, these zesty meatball snacks will disappear fast. Let’s whip up Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing treat!
Why You’ll Love Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo
- Fast and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Bold Flavors: Sweet, spicy, and savory Korean-inspired meatballs that pop with taste.
- Versatile: Great as an appetizer, main dish, or meal prep for zesty meatball snacks.
- Customizable: Adjust spice levels for all palates in these savory BBQ meatballs.
- Fun to Share: The creamy dip makes every bite an interactive, delicious experience.
Ingredients for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo
Here’s what you’ll need for these zesty meatball snacks (makes ~20 meatballs):
Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or chicken
- ½ cup (60g) panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
Korean BBQ Glaze:
- ¼ cup (60ml) soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
- 1 tbsp gochujang
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water for slurry)
Spicy Mayo Dip:
- ½ cup (120g) mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp gochujang
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Garnish (Optional):
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet, skillet, or air fryer
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Cookie scoop (optional)
Ingredient Tips
- Ground Meat: Beef adds richness to Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo; chicken or turkey makes lighter savory BBQ meatballs.
- Gochujang: Adjust this chili paste for spice in zesty meatball snacks; find it at Asian markets or online.
- Panko: Keeps Korean-inspired meatballs tender; gluten-free breadcrumbs work for dietary needs.
- Honey: Balances the glaze’s heat; maple syrup is a great substitute for savory BBQ meatballs.
- Mayonnaise: Use full-fat for a creamy dip; vegan mayo suits plant-based zesty meatball snacks.
Directions for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo
Let’s create these savory BBQ meatballs!
Mix the Meatballs
In a large bowl, I combine 1 lb ground beef or chicken, ½ cup panko, 1 egg, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp ginger, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp gochujang, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp sesame oil, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, and 2 tbsp green onions. I mix gently to avoid tough Korean-inspired meatballs.
Shape the Meatballs
Using a cookie scoop or hands, I form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch balls, making ~20 meatballs. I keep a damp paper towel handy to manage sticky hands for these zesty meatball snacks.
Cook the Meatballs
I choose one of these methods:
- Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes until cooked through (165°F/74°C internally).
- Pan-Fry: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs for 10–12 minutes, turning for even browning.
- Air Fry: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, for crispy savory BBQ meatballs.
Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, I combine ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp gochujang, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and ½ tsp ginger. I simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry, cooking for 1–2 minutes until thickened for Korean-inspired meatballs.
Coat the Meatballs
I toss the cooked meatballs in a bowl with the warm glaze, coating evenly for sticky, flavorful zesty meatball snacks.
Prepare the Spicy Mayo Dip
In a small bowl, I whisk ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp gochujang, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp honey, and ½ tsp garlic powder until smooth, creating a creamy dip for these savory BBQ meatballs.
Serve
I arrange the meatballs on a platter, sprinkle with 1 tbsp sesame seeds and 2 tbsp green onions, and serve with the spicy mayo dip, enjoying the bold flavors of these Korean-inspired meatballs.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–20 minutes
- Total Time: ~27–35 minutes
- Servings: ~20 meatballs (4–5 per serving)
- Calories: ~120–150 kcal per serving (4 meatballs)
- Macros per Serving: 8g carbs, 10g protein, 8g fat, 1g fiber
Variations for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo
Try these twists on these zesty meatball snacks:
- Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey for leaner savory BBQ meatballs.
- Vegetarian: Replace meat with mashed chickpeas, inspired by Food and Tips’ Baked Falafel and Tahini Sauce.
- Milder Glaze: Swap gochujang for hoisin sauce for sweeter Korean-inspired meatballs.
- Avocado Dip: Blend avocado with lime and garlic instead of mayo for a lighter dip for zesty meatball snacks.
- Spicy Boost: Add ½ tsp chili flakes to the glaze for fiery savory BBQ meatballs.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Food and Tips’ Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Noodles for a light side.
- Serve with Food and Tips’ Vanilla Raspberry Iced Latte for a refreshing contrast.
- Enjoy with Food and Tips’ Cucumber Blueberry Feta Salad for a crisp complement.
Storage
I store leftover Korean-inspired meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, keeping the dip separate. For freezing, I place cooled meatballs (without glaze) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months, reheating in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes and warming the glaze separately for fresh savory BBQ meatballs.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Serve these zesty meatball snacks on a platter with the dip in a vibrant bowl.
- Garnish: Add extra sesame seeds or cilantro for flair.
- Pairing: Enjoy with lettuce wraps or Food and Tips’ Coconut Cooler for balance.
- Portion Size: 4–5 meatballs per person as an appetizer or 6–8 for a main.
- Occasions: Perfect for game days, potlucks, or family dinners.
FAQs About Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo
Here are answers to common questions about this dish:
Can I make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo ahead?
Yes, shape the meatballs and refrigerate for up to 1 day; cook fresh for juicy savory BBQ meatballs.
How do I adjust the spice level?
Use less gochujang in the glaze and dip for milder zesty meatball snacks.
Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes, freeze cooked meatballs (unglazed) for up to 2 months; reheat in the oven for crisp Korean-inspired meatballs.
What can I use instead of panko?
Regular or gluten-free breadcrumbs work for these savory BBQ meatballs.
What sides pair well?
Serve with rice, lettuce wraps, or Food and Tips’ Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Noodles for balanced zesty meatball snacks.
More Delicious Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love
- Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans
- Vegetable Fritters
- Crispy Chickpea & Sweet Potato Fritters with Avocado Sauce
Conclusion
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo are a bold, juicy, and easy dish that brings fun and flavor to any table. These savory BBQ meatballs with creamy dip are perfect for sharing and celebrating. Whip up these zesty meatball snacks, customize with your favorite twists, and enjoy a delicious, interactive meal!
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb 450g ground beef or chicken
- ½ cup 60g panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 tbsp soy sauce low-sodium preferred
- 1 tbsp gochujang Korean chili paste
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
For the Korean BBQ Glaze:
- ¼ cup 60ml soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp gochujang
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ½ tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water for slurry
For the Spicy Mayo Dip:
- ½ cup 120g mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp gochujang
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
- ½ tsp garlic powder
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
Instructions
Mix the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, I combine 1 lb ground beef or chicken, ½ cup panko, 1 egg, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp ginger, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp gochujang, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp sesame oil, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, and 2 tbsp green onions. I mix gently to avoid tough Korean-inspired meatballs.
Shape the Meatballs
- Using a cookie scoop or hands, I form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch balls, making ~20 meatballs. I keep a damp paper towel handy to manage sticky hands for these zesty meatball snacks.
Cook the Meatballs
- I choose one of these methods:
Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes until cooked through (165°F/74°C internally).
- Pan-Fry: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs for 10–12 minutes, turning for even browning.
- Air Fry: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, for crispy savory BBQ meatballs.
Make the Glaze
- In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, I combine ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp gochujang, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and ½ tsp ginger. I simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry, cooking for 1–2 minutes until thickened for Korean-inspired meatballs.
Coat the Meatballs
- I toss the cooked meatballs in a bowl with the warm glaze, coating evenly for sticky, flavorful zesty meatball snacks.
Prepare the Spicy Mayo Dip
- In a small bowl, I whisk ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp gochujang, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp honey, and ½ tsp garlic powder until smooth, creating a creamy dip for these savory BBQ meatballs.
Serve
- I arrange the meatballs on a platter, sprinkle with 1 tbsp sesame seeds and 2 tbsp green onions, and serve with the spicy mayo dip, enjoying the bold flavors of these Korean-inspired meatballs.
Notes
More Delicious Appetizer Recipes You'll Love
- Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans
- Vegetable Fritters
- Crispy Chickpea & Sweet Potato Fritters with Avocado Sauce
Did you Like This Recipe? Please Rate and Comment Below!
