Korean BBQ Meatballs Spicy Mayo

Korean BBQ meatballs bring a vibrant combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors to the table. Rich with umami from soy sauce and sesame oil, these meatballs pair perfectly with a creamy, spicy mayo dip that adds a delightful kick. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course over rice or in lettuce wraps, this recipe offers a quick and versatile way to enjoy Korean-inspired flavors at home.

I first made these meatballs for a casual dinner with friends and found that everyone couldn’t get enough. They quickly became a favorite for game day snacks and family dinners alike.

Ingredients

• Ground meat: One pound ground beef or your choice of ground turkey, chicken, or pork for flexibility and preference
• Breadcrumbs: Quarter cup breadcrumbs to provide tenderness and help the meatballs hold together
• Parmesan cheese: Quarter cup grated Parmesan cheese adds extra depth and umami, but this can be skipped if you prefer
• Egg: One egg serves as a binder to keep everything together
• Onion: Quarter cup chopped onion for subtle sweetness and moisture
• Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic for a fragrant, savory base
• Parsley: Quarter cup fresh chopped parsley adds freshness and a pop of color
• Dried oregano: Half teaspoon dried oregano offers mild herbal notes
• Salt: Quarter teaspoon salt to enhance all the flavors
• Black pepper: Eighth teaspoon black pepper brings a touch of heat
• Soy sauce: One tablespoon soy sauce boosts the savory umami tones
• Sesame oil: One teaspoon sesame oil for authentic toasted nutty flavor that defines Korean BBQ dishes
• Spicy Mayo Dip Ingredients: quarter cup mayonnaise for creaminess, one tablespoon sriracha which you can adjust for desired heat level, half teaspoon soy sauce for extra savory depth, quarter teaspoon sesame oil for nuttiness, and an eighth teaspoon garlic powder for subtle flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, optional Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender. Shape the mixture into about one-inch meatballs and place them on a tray for cooking.

Cook the Meatballs:

Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs, making sure not to overcrowd the pan to allow each one to brown evenly. Cook for eight to ten minutes, turning occasionally so all sides develop a golden crust and the meatballs are cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Make the Spicy Mayo Dip:

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder until smooth and well blended. Adjust seasoning as needed based on spice preference.

Serve:

Arrange meatballs on a serving plate while still warm. Offer the spicy mayo dip on the side for dipping. For extra flavor and presentation, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Save Pin

I love how the sesame oil instantly transforms these meatballs with its toasty aroma. One special memory I have is serving these at a family gathering where they disappeared in minutes because everyone loved the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy in every bite.

Storage Tips

Cool the cooked meatballs completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag for up to three months. When reheating, use gentle methods such as a low heat skillet with a splash of water or the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit to keep them moist.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer leaner meat options. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for gluten-sensitive diets. Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative. Adjust the heat of the dip by swapping sriracha for sweet chili sauce or adding gochujang for deeper Korean flavors.

Serving Suggestions

As an appetizer, serve meatballs with toothpicks alongside the spicy mayo dip. Over a bowl of steamed jasmine or sticky rice, meatballs become a hearty main meal. Wrap them in fresh lettuce leaves with cucumber and shredded carrots for a refreshing lettuce wrap. For a comforting meal, add to stir-fried noodles or a Korean-style bowl featuring kimchi, sautéed greens, and a fried egg for richness.

Cultural Context

Korean BBQ flavors focus on a harmonious mix of sweet, savory, and spicy elements often found in marinades and sauces. This meatball recipe channels those traditional Korean flavors through simple ingredients easily found in most kitchens. Serving with kimchi or a gochujang drizzle pays homage to authentic Korean cuisine that celebrates diverse textures and umami depth in every dish.

Pro Tips

• Make sure to chill the meat mixture for at least 10 minutes before shaping to make handling easier and improve texture
• Do not overmix the meat mixture or the meatballs will turn out dense and tough
• Cook meatballs over medium heat and avoid overcrowding the pan to get a nice browned crust and ensure even cooking throughout

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Can the meatballs be made ahead and stored?

Yes, shape the meatballs in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months and cook them straight from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What alternatives work for sriracha in the dip?

Gochujang, sambal oelek, or cayenne pepper mixed with vinegar provide different spice profiles. For a milder dip, sweet chili sauce is a great substitute.

→ How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Including egg and breadcrumbs helps bind the mixture. Adjust the moisture by adding more breadcrumbs if too wet, or a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil if too dry.

→ Is oven cooking a good alternative to pan-frying?

Absolutely, baking at 400°F for 15-18 minutes yields tender meatballs. For a crisper exterior, broil for the last 2 minutes.

→ What’s the best way to serve these meatballs at gatherings?

Arrange on a platter with toothpicks and extra spicy mayo dip. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for appealing presentation. Keeping them warm in a slow cooker works well for longer serving times.