Get ready to wow your friends and family with this irresistible Korean BBQ Meatballs Dip Recipe! Perfectly juicy meatballs are glazed in a tangy, savory Korean BBQ sauce and served with a creamy, spicy mayo dip that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a game night, preparing a delicious appetizer for a dinner party, or just hungry for something special, this dish brings serious flavor and a fun twist to the table. The blend of bold ingredients and breezy prep time means you’ll be going back for seconds before you know it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Korean BBQ Meatballs Dip Recipe is that you need just a handful of kitchen staples and a couple of Asian pantry favorites to deliver big flavors. Every ingredient has its moment to shine — from the rich beef base to the punchy sriracha dip and that all-important hit of sesame right at the end.
- Ground beef (1 pound): This is the hearty foundation of your meatballs, offering richness and a satisfying, juicy texture.
- Breadcrumbs (1/4 cup): Essential for holding everything together and keeping the meatballs tender.
- Egg (1): Acts as the glue, binding your ingredients so your meatballs stay perfectly formed.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Adds mellow warmth and depth of flavor that makes the meatballs sing.
- Green onions (2, finely chopped): Lends freshness, color, and just the right amount of bite.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Infuses the mix with that irresistible umami saltiness.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Just a splash is enough to give a nutty, toasty undertone.
- Ground ginger (1/2 teaspoon): Brings subtle heat and complexity without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A little black pepper for that background warmth.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Use for frying — it ensures your meatballs get a beautiful golden crust.
- Korean BBQ sauce (1/2 cup): Sweet, tangy, and savory, it’s the flavor backbone in this recipe; try making your own or use your favorite store-bought version.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Forms the creamy base of the dip, balancing out all the bold flavors.
- Sriracha (1 tablespoon): Offers a spicy kick in the dipping sauce; adjust to your heat preference.
- Lime juice (1 teaspoon): Freshens up the dip with a touch of bright acidity.
- Chopped green onions (1 tablespoon, for garnish): Sprinkled over the top for color, crunch, and freshness.
- Sesame seeds (1 teaspoon, for garnish): A finishing touch of crunch and visual flair.
How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs Dip Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, and black pepper. Don’t be afraid to use your hands to mix — you want everything well incorporated, but try not to overwork the meat. Once mixed, form your meatball mixture into small, even balls about 1 inch in diameter; this size cooks up beautifully and is perfect for dipping.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs, being careful not to crowd the pan. Let them brown, turning occasionally with tongs or a spoon to get an even, caramelized crust on all sides. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes, and trust me, the aroma alone is worth it!
Step 3: Glaze with Korean BBQ Sauce
Reduce the heat slightly, pour the Korean BBQ sauce over your hot, cooked meatballs, and gently stir to coat each meatball in the sticky, glossy sauce. Let them simmer for just 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce clings to every nook and cranny.
Step 4: Make the Spicy Mayo Dip
While your meatballs are simmering, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, and fresh lime juice in a small bowl. This simple dip is creamy, spicy, and tangy — the perfect companion for the bold flavors of the Korean BBQ Meatballs Dip Recipe.
Step 5: Plate and Garnish
Transfer the saucy meatballs to a large serving bowl or platter. Drizzle with a little extra barbecue sauce for maximum shine if you’re feeling fancy. Sprinkle over chopped green onions and a shower of sesame seeds for a pop of color and crunch. Serve the spicy mayo dip on the side so everyone can dig in and savor every bite.
How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Always finish your Korean BBQ Meatballs Dip Recipe with a flourish! A generous sprinkle of extra chopped green onions and a dusting of sesame seeds make for a stunning presentation and a delightful crunch. For bonus points, a few curls of shaved chili or a drizzle of toasted sesame oil right before serving can really put this appetizer over the top.
Side Dishes
To round out your spread, offer up a medley of fresh cucumber slices, crisp snap peas, or pickled vegetables. Light and crunchy sides keep things balanced and let the rich, savory meatballs shine. You can also serve with fluffy steamed rice or mini bao buns if you’re turning this appetizer into more of a meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party-ready platter, offer toothpicks or adorable mini skewers so guests can help themselves easily. Layering meatballs in a shallow dish with the dip artistically swirled alongside makes for an eye-catching centerpiece. Want another fun idea? Tuck a few meatballs, some dip, and crisp veggies into lettuce cups for Korean BBQ lettuce wraps with a delicious twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Korean BBQ Meatballs Dip Recipe will keep nicely in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Store the meatballs and dip separately, so they both maintain their best flavors and textures. A quick reheat is all it takes to bring them back to life!
Freezing
If you’re planning ahead, go ahead and freeze the cooked, sauced meatballs (without the dip) in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. The dip is best made fresh, but you can whip it up in just a minute with pantry staples!
Reheating
For best results, gently reheat your meatballs on the stovetop with a splash of extra BBQ sauce, or pop them in the microwave until steaming hot. If you’re pulling them from the freezer, thaw in the fridge overnight first. Whip up a fresh batch of spicy mayo dip, garnish, and serve like new.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Appetizer
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist, or even try half pork and half beef for deeper flavor. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly since leaner meats may cook faster.
Is the spicy mayo dip very hot?
The dip has a gentle heat, thanks to the sriracha, but it’s easy to customize. Add more sriracha if you love things spicy, or scale back for a milder experience. Taste as you go, and trust your palate!
Can I make the Korean BBQ Meatballs Dip Recipe ahead for a party?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for prepping ahead! Shape and cook your meatballs a day in advance, then glaze and warm them up with the BBQ sauce right before guests arrive. Mix the dip just before serving for ultimate freshness.
What’s the best store-bought Korean BBQ sauce for this recipe?
Look for Gochujang-based BBQ sauces at your grocery store or Asian market. Brands like CJ or Bibigo offer wonderful options, but any thick, sweet-savory Korean BBQ sauce you love will be delicious in this Korean BBQ Meatballs Dip Recipe.
Do I have to use sesame seeds and green onions as garnish?
While they do add flavor and visual appeal, you can definitely skip them or swap for other favorites like chopped cilantro, a pinch of chili flakes, or even crushed peanuts for a different twist.
Final Thoughts
If there’s one appetizer guaranteed to win hearts, it’s this Korean BBQ Meatballs Dip Recipe. It’s fun, shareable, bold, and absolutely addictive. Gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and watch this crowd-pleasing favorite disappear fast. You’ll be hooked from the very first bite!
Print
Korean BBQ Meatballs Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Korean BBQ Meatballs are a delicious twist on a classic appetizer. Juicy meatballs infused with Asian flavors, smothered in a sweet and savory BBQ sauce, and served with a spicy mayo dip.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 green onions (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Korean BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Spicy Mayo Dip:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, and black pepper. Form into small meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet, cook meatballs until browned and cooked through. Add Korean BBQ sauce and simmer.
- Make the Spicy Mayo Dip: Mix mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice in a bowl.
- Assemble: Transfer meatballs to a serving dish, drizzle with extra BBQ sauce if desired, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with spicy mayo dip.
Notes
- To save time, you can use frozen meatballs and toss them in Korean BBQ sauce after reheating.
- This dish makes a great appetizer or party snack.
- Pairs well with toothpicks or mini skewers for easy serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–5 meatballs with dip
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
