Korean BBQ Meatball Ingredients
Hey there, fellow food lovers! It’s Benjamin, and today we’re diving headfirst into a flavor explosion Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip! Trust me, this one’s a game changer. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone together, kind of like my grandma’s Texas BBQ did for our family. Remember that feeling of warmth and connection? That’s exactly what these Korean meatballs or Korean BBQ meatballs, as some folks call ’em bring to the table.
Table of Contents

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And the best part? They’re surprisingly simple to make. No need for fancy chef skills here, just a love for good food and a willingness to try something new. So, let’s gather our ingredients, shall we? This is what you’ll need to make these incredible Korean meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef: I like to use 80/20 for a juicy meatball, but feel free to use your favorite.
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs: These add a nice lightness to the meatballs. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and aromatic depth.
- 1 large egg: This helps bind the meatballs together.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything’s better with garlic, right?
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: A touch of umami. Low sodium works great too.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: This is where the magic happens! Sesame oil adds that authentic Korean flavor.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the savory.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger: A warming spice that adds a subtle zing.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A little kick of heat.
See? Nothing too intimidating. It’s like gathering the family around for a fun-filled cooking session. Everyone can get involved!
Easy Korean BBQ Meatball Recipe
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making these Korean BBQ meatballs is a breeze, reminding me of those easy Sunday morning pancake sessions with Mom full of laughter, love, and of course, deliciousness. So here’s the play by play:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C): Get that oven nice and toasty while you prepare your Korean meatballs!
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl: Add the ground beef, Panko, onion, egg, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, ginger, and pepper to the bowl. Now, gently mix everything together. Remember, don’t overmix; nobody likes a tough meatball.
- Shape into 1-inch meatballs: This should yield about 20-24 Korean BBQ meatballs, perfect for sharing! I like to get my kids involved in this step. It’s messy, but fun!
- Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper: This makes cleanup a snap. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes: Keep an eye on them, and you’ll know they’re done when they’re cooked through and nicely browned. That’s the sign of deliciousness waiting to happen.
See? Easy peasy! The smell wafting from your oven will be heavenly, almost as good as Dad’s perfectly grilled steaks. Just imagine: soon you’ll be enjoying your very own homemade Korean BBQ meatballs now that’s something to be proud of! They’re also great for any occasion, whether it’s impressing your friends or whipping up a simple dinner for the family. Want to switch it up? try calling them by their other name, Korean BBQ Meatball with Spicy Mayo Dip sounds elegant ,right?
Making the Spicy Mayo Dipping Sauce
Okay, now for the star of the show the Spicy Mayo Dip! This stuff is addictive. Seriously, it’s what takes these Korean BBQ meatballs over the top. Think of it as the “secret sauce” to your culinary masterpiece just like my grandma’s BBQ sauce! This Korean BBQ Meatball dish just wouldn’t be complete without it.

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Here’s how you create this flavor bomb:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Use your favorite brand.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha: Or more, if you like it extra spicy. Adjust to your taste.
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste): This adds that authentic Korean flavor. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with a little extra sriracha.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar: A little tanginess to brighten things up.
- 1 teaspoon honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil: To bring it all together. Just a little goes a long way.
Simply whisk all the ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. That’s it! A simple yet powerful dipping sauce that takes your Korean meatballs to the next level. Trust me, you’re going to love this one. This Spicy Mayo Dip transforms the already delightful korean meatballs into a gourmet adventure.
Tips for the Best Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Hey there, friends! It’s Ben from Mister Recipe, back in the kitchen with you, and today we’re talking all about perfecting those absolutely irresistible Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip. Now, trust me, you’re going to love this one. This recipe is a real crowd-pleaser, perfect for everything from game day snacks to a quick weeknight dinner. But before you dive in headfirst, let’s talk about a few little secrets that’ll elevate your Korean meatballs from delicious to absolutely unforgettable.
- Don’t Overmix the Meat: Just like my grandmother’s secret barbecue sauce, the key here is in gentle handling. Overmixing the meat mixture for your Korean BBQ meatballs can make them tough. Mix just until everything is *just* combined. Think light and fluffy, not dense and packed. This little trick will make all the difference in tenderness.
- Get that Perfect Sear: For that authentic Korean BBQ flavor, a good sear is essential. Make sure your pan (or grill!) is nice and hot before adding the meatballs. This helps create that beautiful caramelization on the outside while keeping the insides juicy. We’re going for maximum flavor here! Think those crispy edges, a slight char game changer!
- Simmer in the Sauce: Don’t just toss the korean meatballs in the Korean BBQ sauce let them simmer in it for a bit! This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating that rich, sticky glaze that makes these Korean BBQ meatballs so addictively delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to make sure the meatballs are cooked all the way through.
- Freshly Grated Ginger and Garlic: I know it’s tempting to reach for the jarred stuff, but trust me on this one. Freshly grated ginger and garlic bring a vibrancy and depth of flavor that you simply can’t achieve with pre-minced versions. It takes just a minute more, and it’s worth every second, particularly in these Korean meatballs.
- Quality Ingredients Shine: This one’s a no-brainer, but it bears repeating using top-notch ingredients will absolutely impact the final results. From the ground meat to the gochujang (Korean chili paste) invest in what tastes best to you and let those flavors shine through. I promise you, it’s a difference you will appreciate!
Serving Suggestions for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Alright, let’s talk about how to serve these delectable little bites, shall we? These Korean meatballs really are incredibly versatile. Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy them (and a few ideas from Emily and the kids, too!):

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- Classic Appetizer: Pile them high on a platter with toothpicks and a generous bowl of that spicy mayo dip. Perfect for game day, potlucks, or any casual get-together. These Korean meatballs disappear fast!
- Slider Power: Tuck a few Korean BBQ meatballs into mini slider buns with a little slaw and extra sauce. It’s a fun, handheld option that’s sure to be a hit with everyone.
- Rice Bowl Bliss: Serve these Korean meatballs over a bed of fluffy rice with steamed veggies and a drizzle of sriracha. This is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor and oh-so satisfying. One of Jana’s favorites!
- Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter, refreshing option, try wrapping these yummy Korean meatballs in crisp lettuce cups with some quick pickled veggies. It’s a delicious and fun way to enjoy all those amazing flavors. Adams loves helping with this one!
- Noodle Nirvana: Toss the Korean BBQ meatballs with your favorite noodles (I’m partial to soba or rice noodles) and some sautéed vegetables for a simple yet flavorful noodle bowl. It’s a guaranteed winner, even with picky eaters.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Korean BBQ Meatballs
Let’s be real, leftover Korean BBQ meatballs are a treasure. They might even be better the next day! Here’s how to store them and reheat them properly:
Storing: Let the Korean meatballs cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage just make sure they are completely cooled and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Trust me, having a stash of these Korean meatballs in the freezer is a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
Reheating: To reheat refrigerated Korean bbq meatballs, you can gently microwave them, reheat them in a skillet over low heat, or warm them through in the oven. For frozen Korean bbq meatballs, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This allows the meat to reabsorb its juices slowly for better mouthfeel. Don’t worry if they’re a little sticky – that’s part of their charm! Just give them a good toss in the yummy Korean bbq sauce before heating them back up.

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 for juicier meatballs
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs Can use gluten-free alternative
- 1/4 cup yellow onion Finely chopped
- 1 large egg For binding
- 2 cloves garlic Minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce Low sodium works too
- 1 tbsp sesame oil Adds authentic Korean flavor
- 1 tbsp brown sugar For a touch of sweetness
- 1 tsp ground ginger Adds a subtle zing
- 1/2 tsp black pepper For a bit of heat
Spicy Mayo Dip
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise Use preferred brand
- 1 tbsp sriracha Adjust for spice level
- 1 tbsp gochujang Korean chili paste
- 1 tsp rice vinegar Adds tanginess
- 1 tsp honey Balances heat with sweetness
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil Enhances flavor
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Panko, onion, egg, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, ginger, and black pepper. Mix gently to avoid tough meatballs.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about 20-24) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and browned.
- While meatballs bake, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, gochujang, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil to make the spicy mayo dip.
- Serve meatballs hot with spicy mayo dip on the side. Enjoy!
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions about Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
You’ve got questions about these amazing Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip, and I’ve got answers! Here are a few FAQs to help you on your culinary journey:
Can I make these Korean BBQ meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors often meld and deepen overnight. You can fully cook the Korean meatballs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to serve. The spicy mayo dip can also be made ahead and stored separately.
What can I substitute for gochujang (Korean chili paste)?
If you can’t find gochujang, you can substitute with a little extra sriracha or another chili paste you enjoy. The flavor profile won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious!
Can I grill these Korean meatballs instead of baking them?
Yes, grilling these Korean BBQ meatballs adds a fantastic smoky char! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Be sure to keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
What other dipping sauces can I use?
While the Spicy Mayo Dip is a match made in heaven for these Korean BBQ meatballs, feel free to experiment! Teriyaki sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a simple peanut sauce would all be delicious alternatives.
Are these Korean meatballs kid-friendly?
Yes, with a little adjustment! You can reduce the amount of sriracha in the spicy mayo dip or serve it on the side. The Korean meatballs themselves are mild and flavorful, making them a hit with both kids and adults. My kids, Adams and Jana, absolutely gobble them up!
Conclusion: Dive into Deliciousness with Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
So there you have it, folks! From my kitchen to yours, I hope this Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip recipe brings you as much joy as it brings my family. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavor, a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. Just like my grandma’s kitchen, where the aroma of barbecue ribs filled the air, I hope these Korean bbq meatballs create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home.
Whether you call them Korean meatballs or Korean BBQ meatballs, these little bites of deliciousness, paired with that irresistible Spicy Mayo Dip, are sure to become a new family favorite. Give it a try, and let me know what you think! Happy cooking, everyone!