Dinner

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe

Name: Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground chicken; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 green onions, finely chopped; ½ cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon gochujang; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon honey; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Sesame seeds; Chopped green onions

Byluca Carter March 31, 2026March 31, 2026

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Introduction

Korean BBQ Meatballs are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings the bold, spicy, and savory flavors of Korean cuisine right to your table. Paired with a creamy, spicy mayo dip, these meatballs make a perfect appetizer or main course for any occasion.

The image shows a close-up of several round, browned meatballs stacked in a small pile. Each meatball has a slightly crispy outer layer with a dark golden-brown color and a shiny glaze that looks sticky. Small white sesame seeds are sprinkled on top, along with finely chopped green onion pieces scattered over and around the meatballs. The background is a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground chicken
½ cup panko breadcrumbs

1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece ginger, grated
2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil

½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, finely chopped

Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

For the spicy mayo dip:

½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon gochujang

1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or chicken, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and chopped green onions. Gently mix everything until just combined.
Step 2: Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter using your hands or a small scoop. Place the meatballs on a plate or baking sheet while you prepare to cook them.
Step 3: You can either bake or pan-fry the meatballs. To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. To pan-fry, cook the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides.

Step 4: While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the spicy mayo dip. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, gochujang, lime juice, honey, and garlic powder. Mix well until smooth.
Step 5: Serve the meatballs hot with the spicy mayo dip on the side. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor and presentation.

Tips & Variations

For extra tenderness, soak the panko breadcrumbs in a little milk before mixing into the meat.

Try using ground turkey as a leaner alternative to beef or chicken.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less gochujang according to your preference.
For a gluten-free option, substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. The spicy mayo dip can be kept refrigerated separately for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

This image shows a close-up of a pile of small grilled meatballs stacked on top of each other. Each meatball has a golden-brown, slightly charred surface with a shiny glaze that makes them look juicy. The meatballs are sprinkled with white sesame seeds and small pieces of bright green chopped scallions that add color contrast. The background is a white marbled texture, and the photo looks warm and inviting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture and shape them a day ahead, then store them covered in the refrigerator. Cook them just before serving for the freshest taste.

Is gochujang spicy?

Gochujang is a Korean chili paste with a moderate heat level and a slightly sweet, savory flavor. Its spiciness is gentle enough for most palates but can be adjusted depending on how much you use in the recipe.