Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a flavorful fusion of sweet, savory, and spicy notes, making them a perfect appetizer or main dish. These bite-sized delights feature tender meatballs glazed with a sticky Korean BBQ sauce, complemented by a creamy and spicy mayo dip. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a weeknight dinner, these meatballs are sure to impress with their bold flavors and irresistible texture.

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or pork (or a mix)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sugar
• For the Korean BBQ Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • 1 tsp gochujang (Korean chili paste) or sriracha
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
• For the Spicy Mayo Dip:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1-2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp honey
• For Garnish:
  • Sesame seeds
  • Sliced green onions

• Step 1: Make the Meatballs
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  • In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, black pepper, and sugar.
  • Mix until well combined but avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
  • Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
• Step 2: Prepare the Korean BBQ Sauce
  • While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, gochujang, and rice vinegar.
  • Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it begins to simmer.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
  • Remove from heat and set aside.
• Step 3: Make the Spicy Mayo Dip
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, lime juice, and honey until smooth.
  • Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if desired.
  • Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
• Step 4: Glaze the Meatballs
  • Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl.
  • Pour the Korean BBQ sauce over the meatballs and toss gently to coat evenly.
• Step 5: Garnish and Serve
  • Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving platter.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
  • Serve warm with the spicy mayo dip on the side.