Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe

Let me introduce you to my absolute party favorite: Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip! These little beauties are bursting with umami, garlicky goodness and crowned with a creamy kick from their fiery dipping sauce. Whether you’re hosting friends, spicing up a family dinner, or looking for a crave-worthy snack, these meatballs will steal the show—trust me, you’ll want to double the batch.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of my favorite things about Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip is how each simple ingredient works double duty—building flavor and making the meatballs spectacularly juicy inside with a crave-worthy crust outside. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters.

• Ground beef: The base for tender, flavor-packed meatballs—go for 80/20 for best juiciness.
• Breadcrumbs: Gives the meatballs their irresistible soft bite and helps keep everything moist.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, umami punch and helps the meatballs brown beautifully.
• Egg: Binds the whole mixture for meatballs that hold together like a dream.
• Onion (chopped): Infuses sweet, savory flavor and keeps the texture tender—mince it finely!
• Garlic (minced): Essential for that aromatic, classic BBQ base.
• Parsley (chopped): Delivers fresh, herbal brightness, balancing the richer elements.
• Dried oregano: Lends a subtle earthiness, marrying all those bold flavors together.
• Salt & black pepper: Just enough to round out and enhance every layer.
• Soy sauce: Deepens the savoriness and whispers that signature Korean BBQ umami.
• Sesame oil: The secret ingredient—nutty, fragrant, absolutely essential.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the Spicy Mayo Dip that ties everything together.
• Sriracha: Kicks up the heat and complexity in the dip—adjust to your preferred spice level.
• Garlic powder: Enhances the dip with extra garlicky warmth in just a pinch.

Variations

One of the joys of making Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip is playing around with the combinations—think of this as your flavor playground! Don’t hesitate to adapt to suit your pantry or cravings.

• Swap the protein: Try ground chicken, turkey, or pork for a lighter twist that’s still totally packed with personality.
• Make it gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce—no flavor sacrifice here!
• Dial up the heat: Add a pinch of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) to the meat mixture or double the sriracha for fire-lovers.
• Vegetarian option: Sub in plant-based ground “meat” and vegan Parmesan for a shockingly satisfying, meatless version.

How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatballs

Add all the meatball ingredients—ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and sesame oil—to a large bowl. Roll up your sleeves and use your hands to gently mix until just combined, then scoop out little golf ball-sized portions and form into meatballs. The less you handle, the more tender they’ll be!

Step 2: Sear the Meatballs

Heat a generous slick of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides (give them space—work in batches if needed) until they’re gorgeously caramelized and cooked through. Let them rest on a plate while you whip up the dip.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Spicy Mayo Dip

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder until silky and smooth. Taste and tweak the heat to your heart’s content—you want a dip that sings!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange your Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip on a platter, pile up the dip in a bowl, and get ready for some serious oohs and ahhs! Trust me—the savory meatballs and creamy, spicy sauce were made for each other.

How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Garnishes

For a photogenic finish and a pop of flavor, try a shower of toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions right before serving. A sprinkling of freshly chopped cilantro or parsley adds an extra burst of color and freshness that takes these meatballs over the top!

Side Dishes

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip pair beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice—you’ll want something to soak up that extra sauce. Quick pickled cucumbers or a fresh cabbage slaw add crunch and brightness for a balanced plate. They’re also delicious tucked in lettuce wraps or served with simple stir-fried noodles for a meal-in-one.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these meatballs into party-perfect skewers or serve them slider-style in mini buns with extra spicy mayo drizzle. For game day or potlucks, arrange them with toothpicks circled around the dip for irresistible, grab-and-go bites—guaranteed to disappear in seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen after a night’s rest, making tomorrow’s snack even more mouthwatering! The meatballs and dip will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

Freezing

These meatballs freeze like champs! Cool them completely, then pop into a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Make a double batch and stash some away—they’re perfect for future cravings or quick lunches.

Reheating

Warm up meatballs gently in the microwave (cover with a damp paper towel to keep them moist) or reheat in a skillet over low heat. The spicy mayo is best served at room temperature—just give it a good stir before serving again.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you adore savory, saucy dishes that bring everyone to the table, you simply have to make these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip. They’re a little spicy, a little smoky, and entirely irresistible—a guaranteed way to turn an ordinary night into something special. I can’t wait for you to try them and share every last bite with family and friends!

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