These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip bring the bold flavors of Korean BBQ right to your table! Tender, juicy meatballs are coated in a savory Korean BBQ sauce and served with a creamy, spicy mayo dip that adds the perfect kick. These flavorful meatballs are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even as a main dish with steamed rice. Ideal for parties or quick weeknight meals!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: Enjoy the rich flavors of Korean BBQ combined with a spicy mayo dip that elevates every bite.
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all levels.
- Versatile Dish: Serve these meatballs as an appetizer, snack, or main course—great for any occasion!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your guests at parties or family gatherings with these deliciously unique meatballs.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and flavor, they are a wholesome choice compared to traditional fried snacks.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your cooking adventure, gather the essential tools to make these delicious Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Large mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for cooking the meatballs evenly.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to ensure great flavor.
- Small saucepan: Perfect for preparing the Korean BBQ sauce without creating too much mess.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Korean BBQ Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Spicy Mayo Dip:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (or more for extra spice)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Make the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
* Ground meat
* Breadcrumbs
* Milk
* Chopped green onions
* Minced garlic
* Grated ginger
* Egg
* Soy sauce
* Sesame oil
* Brown sugar
* Black pepper
Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Form the mixture into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Bake in your preheated oven for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked and golden brown. Check one by cutting it open; it should not be pink inside.
Step 5: Prepare the Korean BBQ Sauce
While baking, combine all sauce ingredients (soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, gochujang, grated ginger, and minced garlic) in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until well mixed and simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
Step 6: Prepare the Spicy Mayo Dip
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Adjust sriracha according to your preferred spice level. Stir until smooth.
Step 7: Coat the Meatballs
Once baked, remove meatballs from the oven and toss them in prepared Korean BBQ sauce until fully coated.
Step 8: Serve
Arrange coated meatballs on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve alongside spicy mayo dip.
Enjoy your delicious Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip!
How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
As Appetizers
- Serve the meatballs warm on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating.
- Pair them with a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the flavors.
With Steamed Rice
- Place the meatballs over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a hearty meal.
- Drizzle extra Korean BBQ sauce over the top to enhance flavor.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the meatballs along with some fresh vegetables.
- Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor.
On Mini Sliders
- Create sliders by placing meatballs in small buns and topping them with spicy mayo.
- Add pickled vegetables for a tangy twist that complements the meatballs.
As Part of a Platter
- Arrange meatballs alongside other Korean dishes like kimchi and bulgogi.
- This colorful platter will impress guests and offer diverse flavors.
How to Perfect Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
To ensure your Korean BBQ Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips.
- Choose the right meat: Ground beef provides the best flavor, but ground chicken is a lighter option that works well too.
- Don’t skip on seasoning: Ensure all ingredients are mixed thoroughly for an even flavor throughout each meatball.
- Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of gochujang and sriracha in the recipes to suit your heat preference.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the overall taste significantly compared to dried alternatives.
- Bake evenly: Give space between each meatball on the baking sheet to promote even cooking and browning.
- Let them rest: Allow cooked meatballs to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain their juiciness.
Best Side Dishes for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Serving side dishes alongside your Korean BBQ Meatballs can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options that pair perfectly:
- Kimchi: A traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, offering a spicy and tangy kick.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers dressed in vinegar and sesame oil.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing the richness of the meatballs.
- Rice Balls (Jumeok-bap): These flavorful rice balls can be filled with seasoned vegetables or meats, making them fun finger food.
- Pickled Radishes: Sweet and crunchy pickled radishes provide a crisp contrast to the savory meatballs.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries are a tasty option that adds sweetness to complement the savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make a few mistakes when preparing Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.
- Using the wrong meat: Choosing lean cuts can result in dry meatballs. Opt for ground beef or chicken with a bit of fat for juiciness.
- Not mixing thoroughly: If the ingredients aren’t mixed well, some meatballs may taste bland. Make sure to combine all ingredients evenly for consistent flavor.
- Skipping the sauce simmering: Rushing the sauce can lead to a thin texture. Allow it to simmer until slightly thickened for better adherence to the meatballs.
- Overcooking or undercooking the meatballs: Check for doneness by cutting one open. Ensure they are golden brown and fully cooked inside, about 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
- Ignoring spice levels in the dip: Not adjusting the sriracha can make your dip either too mild or overly spicy. Taste as you go to achieve your preferred heat level.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Korean BBQ meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They will last up to 3-4 days.
- Keep the spicy mayo dip in a separate container, also sealed tightly.
Freezing Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Freeze the meatballs before cooking for best results; they will keep well for up to 2 months.
- For cooked meatballs, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring there’s minimal air inside.
- You can freeze the spicy mayo dip separately, but it may change texture upon thawing.
Reheating Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking regularly.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or sauce. Add meatballs and cover until warmed, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey instead of beef for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative! It’s leaner but will still be flavorful when mixed with the right seasonings.
How do I make my spicy mayo dip less spicy?
To reduce spiciness, start with less sriracha and gradually add more until you reach your desired flavor balance.
What can I serve alongside these Korean BBQ Meatballs?
Serve these delicious meatballs with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or even lettuce wraps for a fun twist!
Can I prepare these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix and shape the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook.
How should I store leftover spicy mayo dip?
Store any leftover spicy mayo dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last about a week.
Final Thoughts
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip offer an explosion of flavor that suits any occasion. Their versatility makes them perfect as appetizers or main dishes. Feel free to customize them by adding different spices or adjusting heat levels in the dip. Give this recipe a try and enjoy mouthwatering bites that everyone will love!
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with these Korean BBQ Meatballs served alongside a spicy mayo dip. Juicy meatballs are coated in a rich, savory Korean BBQ sauce, infusing every bite with the bold essence of Korean cuisine. The creamy and zesty mayo dip complements the meatballs perfectly, offering a satisfying kick that will leave taste buds tingling. Ideal as an appetizer for gatherings or a quick weeknight meal, these meatballs are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether enjoyed on their own, over rice, or tucked into lettuce wraps, they promise to impress family and friends alike!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 meatballs 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup green onions (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For BBQ Sauce: soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, gochujang, ginger, garlic
- For Spicy Mayo Dip: mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, sesame oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, green onions, garlic, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Form into balls (about 1 to 1.5 inches) and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- While baking, prepare the BBQ sauce by simmering soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, gochujang, ginger, and garlic in a saucepan for 3–4 minutes.
- Mix mayonnaise with sriracha and sesame oil for the dip.
- Toss baked meatballs in BBQ sauce and serve warm with spicy mayo dip.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 75
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Feel free to substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option. Adjust sriracha in the dip according to your spice preference. Serve with steamed rice or in lettuce wraps for added freshness.
