Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip – Easy Appetizer or Dinner

Every once in a while, I make a recipe that disappears faster than I can plate it—these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are exactly that.

Juicy, flavorful meatballs made with Korean-inspired ingredients like gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil, paired with a creamy, spicy mayo dip that’s tangy, sweet, and addictive.

These meatballs are perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or even dinner served over rice or noodles.

They’re easy to prep, bold in flavor, and completely crave-worthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Korean BBQ flavors in every bite

Perfectly juicy meatballs that bake, fry, or air fry

Spicy mayo dip adds a creamy kick

Great for parties, weeknight dinners, or meal prep

Easy to make ahead and freeze

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Ground beef or beef-pork blend – rich and juicy base

Gochujang – fermented Korean chili paste for heat and depth

Soy sauce – brings savory umami flavor

Sesame oil – for nutty aroma and authenticity

Garlic and ginger – fresh, fragrant backbone

Green onions – optional, for brightness

Egg + breadcrumbs – bind the meatballs

Spicy mayo dip – made with mayo, gochujang, honey, and lemon juice

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use lean beef (80/20) for the perfect juicy texture

Don’t overmix the meat—this keeps meatballs tender

Adjust spice level with more or less gochujang

Bake for ease, but air fry for a crispier finish

Chill the spicy mayo for 15+ minutes to let flavors blend

How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment and lightly grease it.

Step 2: Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef (or a 50/50 beef-pork mix), gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions (optional), egg, and breadcrumbs.

Mix just until combined.

Step 3: Shape and Cook

Form into 1½-inch balls and place evenly on the prepared tray.

To bake: Bake for 18–20 minutes until cooked through.

To air-fry: Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.

To pan-fry: Cook in a skillet over medium heat, turning to brown all sides, about 8–10 minutes total.

Step 4: Make the Spicy Mayo Dip

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, gochujang, honey, and lemon juice.

Stir until smooth and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 5: Add the Glaze (Optional)

For an extra sticky finish, toss cooked meatballs with a mix of gochujang, soy sauce, and a splash of honey or brown sugar warmed in a pan.

Step 6: Serve

Serve meatballs warm with a generous side of spicy mayo dip.

Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

What to Serve It With

Steamed white rice or sticky rice

Kimchi or Korean pickled vegetables

Sautéed bok choy or broccoli

Lettuce wraps for a low-carb version

Cold noodles or soba salad for contrast

Variations / Substitutions

Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version

Make them smaller for party skewers or appetizer platters

Add chopped water chestnuts for crunch

Swap spicy mayo with sweet chili sauce or ranch for kids

Use gluten-free panko + tamari if needed

Storage & Leftovers

Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days

Freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs for up to 2 months

Reheat in microwave or pan with a splash of water

Store spicy mayo dip separately in fridge for up to 1 week

Use leftovers in wraps or rice bowls the next day

FAQs

What is gochujang and where can I find it?
Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste—savory, spicy, slightly sweet.

Find it in the Asian aisle or online.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! Shape and chill raw meatballs up to 24 hours in advance or freeze for later.

How spicy are these meatballs?
Mild to moderate, depending on your gochujang.

Adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance.

Can I skip the spicy mayo dip?
Sure! But it’s highly recommended.

Try another creamy dip if needed—like garlic aioli or yogurt sauce.

Can I use an air fryer for this recipe?
Absolutely. Air frying yields a crisp outside with tender insides.

Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.

How do I keep them from falling apart?
Make sure to use both egg and breadcrumbs, and avoid overmixing.

Let the mixture rest 10 minutes before forming.

Final Thoughts

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are everything I love in one bite—bold flavor, a perfect blend of heat and creaminess, and so easy to make.

They work as party appetizers, meal prep staples, or the star of a weeknight dinner.

Whip up a batch, drizzle on that spicy mayo, and just try to stop at one.