If you’ve been searching for a dish that bursts with bold flavors and melts in your mouth, this Juicy Korean-Style BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Sauce Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Packed with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements, these meatballs bring everything you love about Korean barbecue to your kitchen in a fun, approachable bite-sized form. Whether you’re serving them at a lively dinner party or craving an irresistible weeknight treat, their tender texture and lively sauces will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these Juicy Korean-Style BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Sauce Recipe lies in its simple, yet carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—from delivering juicy tenderness to layering in bold Korean flavors, and finishing with a spicy kick to brighten every bite.
- 1 lb ground beef or pork (or a mix of both): Provides rich, juicy meatiness that forms the hearty base.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps keep the meatballs tender and gives structure without heaviness.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions: Brings freshness and subtle sharpness to balance the richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the meatballs with distinctive aromatic depth.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds umami and a touch of saltiness that ties flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Introduces a toasty nuttiness that is classic in Korean dishes.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances savory flavors with a gentle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a warm, slightly peppery note that lifts the profile.
- 1 egg: Binds ingredients for shape and tenderness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Brightens the mix with subtle acidity.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking): Ensures the meatballs get a beautiful sear without sticking.
- BBQ Sauce Ingredients: Soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, gochujang, and grated ginger combine to create a sticky, savory glaze bursting with Korean flair.
- Spicy Mayo Sauce Ingredients: Mayonnaise, sriracha, and lemon juice make a creamy, spicy sauce that perfectly complements the meatballs.
- Optional Garnishes: Sesame seeds and chopped green onions add inviting texture and vibrant color.
How to Make Juicy Korean-Style BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Start by soaking the breadcrumbs in milk until they absorb the moisture, creating a delicate binder for your meatballs. Then, in a large bowl, combine the ground meat with soaked breadcrumbs, green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, ground ginger, egg, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Mixing everything gently ensures tender meatballs packed with flavor without becoming dense.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands or a small scoop, portion the mixture into uniform balls roughly the size of a walnut. Keeping them consistent not only makes for even cooking but also keeps every bite just as juicy and flavorful.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook in batches without crowding, letting them brown beautifully on all sides. This caramelized crust locks in the juices and adds an irresistible texture you want in every bite.
Step 4: Make the Korean-Style BBQ Sauce
While the meatballs cook, whisk together soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, sesame oil, gochujang, and grated ginger in a small bowl. This combination delivers the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors that will glaze the meatballs in deliciousness.
Step 5: Glaze the Meatballs
Once the meatballs are browned and cooked through, pour the BBQ sauce over them in the skillet. Toss gently to coat each meatball evenly, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling beautifully while the flavors meld together for a few minutes.
Step 6: Prepare the Spicy Mayo Sauce
Mix mayonnaise, sriracha, and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. This creamy sauce offers the perfect spicy cooling contrast to the sticky, savory meatballs.
How to Serve Juicy Korean-Style BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the saucy meatballs for extra eye appeal and a delightful crunch that adds to the overall experience.
Side Dishes
These meatballs pair wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, a simple cucumber salad for crunch, or even wrapped in lettuce leaves with pickled veggies for a fun Korean-inspired bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the meatballs on small skewers as appetizers or alongside kimchi and steamed buns for an impressive spread. Drizzle the spicy mayo generously or serve it on the side for dipping, making every bite customizable and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover meatballs keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinner the next day.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs on a baking tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to three months and thaw quickly when ready to enjoy again.
Reheating
Reheat meatballs gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to keep them moist. Alternatively, warming in the oven wrapped in foil helps preserve their juicy texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef or pork?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can work, but because they’re leaner, be sure to add a bit more moisture like an extra egg or milk to keep the meatballs juicy.
Is gochujang very spicy?
Gochujang has a mild to moderate heat with a deep, slightly sweet flavor, so it adds spice without overpowering. You can adjust the amount based on your preferred heat level.
Can I make the meatballs gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers, and be sure to use a gluten-free soy sauce for the BBQ sauce.
What’s the best way to serve these at a party?
Serving these meatballs on toothpicks or mini skewers with a bowl of spicy mayo sauce on the side makes for a perfect finger food that guests can easily grab and enjoy.
Can I prepare the BBQ sauce and spicy mayo sauce in advance?
Definitely! Both sauces keep well in the fridge for a few days, making it easy to streamline mealtime without sacrificing fresh flavors.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying this Juicy Korean-Style BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Sauce Recipe enough—once you savor these tender, flavor-packed bites with their perfect spicy-sweet glaze and creamy mayo, you’ll understand why they’re such a crowd-pleaser. Whether for a casual dinner or festive gathering, it’s a dish that’s bound to bring people together and have everyone asking for your secret.
Print
Juicy Korean-Style BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
These Juicy Korean-Style BBQ Meatballs combine tender ground beef or pork with a flavorful mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and spices, cooked to perfection and glazed with a rich Korean BBQ sauce. Served with a creamy, spicy mayo sauce that adds a perfect kick, this appetizer or main dish is quick to prepare and packed with delicious Korean-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef or pork (or a mix of both)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
BBQ Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Spicy Mayo Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (or more for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for tang)
Garnish (optional):
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef or pork with breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, ground ginger, egg, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches without crowding the pan and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Remove the cooked meatballs and set aside.
- Make the BBQ Sauce: In the same skillet, combine soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, gochujang, and grated ginger. Stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.
- Glaze the Meatballs: Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the BBQ sauce. Toss gently to coat all meatballs evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare Spicy Mayo Sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with sriracha sauce and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust sriracha quantity to desired heat level.
- Serve: Plate the glazed Korean BBQ meatballs, drizzle or serve alongside the spicy mayo sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or pork.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Adjust sriracha in the spicy mayo to control spice level according to preference.
- These meatballs can be made ahead and reheated gently to maintain juiciness.
- Serve with steamed rice or lettuce wraps for a complete meal.
