Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are an explosion of flavor and spice that will elevate your appetizer game. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner, these meatballs offer a delightful combination of sweet and savory notes. The creamy spicy mayo dip adds a unique twist, making this dish a standout on any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavors: Each meatball is infused with Korean spices and aromatics, providing a deliciously rich taste.
- Easy to Prepare: This simple recipe requires minimal prep and can be ready in just 40 minutes.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these meatballs as an appetizer, snack, or main dish paired with rice or noodles.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties or family gatherings, these meatballs are sure to impress guests of all ages.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and wholesome spices, they make for a nutritious choice.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure your meatballs turn out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet or air fryer
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix the meatball ingredients thoroughly without mess.
- Baking sheet or air fryer: These tools ensure even cooking. The air fryer provides quick results with less oil, while the baking sheet is great for larger batches.
- Saucepan: Perfect for simmering the glaze that coats the meatballs, adding that sweet-savory flavor.
- Whisk: Essential for smoothly blending the ingredients for the spicy mayo dip.
Ingredients
These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip feature fresh and flavorful ingredients:
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
For the Glaze
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp gochujang
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken)
For the Spicy Mayo Dip
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp gochujang
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients for the meatballs:
ground beef
panko breadcrumbs
egg
minced garlic
grated ginger
soy sauce
gochujang
brown sugar
sesame oil
salt
black pepper
chopped green onions
Mix gently until just combined.
Step 2: Form Meatballs
Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Choose your cooking method:
Baking Method:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the meatballs on a baking sheet. Bake for 18–20 minutes until cooked through.
Air Fryer Method:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook the meatballs in batches for about 10–12 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine:
soy sauce
honey (or brown sugar)
gochujang
rice vinegar
sesame oil
minced garlic
minced ginger
Simmer gently until heated through. Stir in cornstarch mixed with water to thicken.
Step 5: Coat Meatballs
Once cooked, toss the meatballs in the warm glaze until they are fully coated.
Step 6: Prepare Spicy Mayo Dip
In a small bowl, whisk together:
mayonnaise
gochujang
lime juice
honey
garlic powder
Blend until smooth.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer glazed meatballs to a serving plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve alongside your spicy mayo dip for dipping!
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 ways. Whether for a casual gathering or a festive occasion, these meatballs will surely please your guests.
As an Appetizer
- Serve on toothpicks for easy snacking at parties.
- Present on a charcuterie board with assorted vegetables and dips.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Use large lettuce leaves as wraps for a fresh, low-carb option.
- Add sliced cucumbers and carrots for extra crunch.
With Rice or Noodles
- Serve over steamed white rice or noodles for a hearty meal.
- Drizzle extra glaze over the dish for added flavor.
As a Game Day Snack
- Set up a buffet with meatballs and spicy mayo dip for game day festivities.
- Pair with beer or soda for a fun, casual vibe.
How to Perfect Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
To ensure your Korean BBQ Meatballs are the best they can be, follow these helpful tips.
- Choose quality meat: Using fresh ground beef or pork enhances flavor and texture.
- Don’t overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to keep meatballs tender.
- Use panko breadcrumbs: They provide a lighter texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Adjust spice levels: Modify the gochujang based on your heat preference.
- Experiment with dips: Try adding different seasonings to the spicy mayo for unique flavors.
- Garnish creatively: Fresh herbs or additional sesame seeds can elevate presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Complement your Korean BBQ Meatballs with delicious side dishes that enhance the meal’s flavor profile. Here are some great options:
- Kimchi: A tangy and spicy fermented vegetable dish that pairs well with meat.
- Steamed Rice: Classic white or jasmine rice provides a neutral base to balance flavors.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted in sesame oil complement the sweetness of the meatballs.
- Pickled Radishes: These offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatballs.
- Miso Soup: A warm soup adds comfort and rounds out the meal beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the panko breadcrumbs: Panko adds a light texture to the meatballs. Using regular breadcrumbs can make them dense and heavy, so stick with panko for that perfect bite.
- Overmixing the meatball mixture: Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed for tender results.
- Not preheating your cooking appliance: Whether using an oven or air fryer, preheating ensures even cooking. Don’t skip this step for perfectly cooked meatballs.
- Neglecting the glaze: The glaze is what elevates these meatballs. Make sure to coat them thoroughly in the sauce after cooking for maximum flavor.
- Omitting garnishes: Garnishes like sesame seeds and chopped green onions add flavor and visual appeal. Don’t overlook this step as it enhances presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically until warm.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey. Just ensure it is well-seasoned, as these meats are milder.
What if I don’t have gochujang?
If you can’t find gochujang, you can use sriracha mixed with miso paste as a substitute for some heat and depth of flavor.
How do I make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip gluten-free?
Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Can I prepare these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix and shape the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them. Cook right before serving for best results.
Final Thoughts
These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are not just delicious but also versatile. Perfect as appetizers for parties or family dinners, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Feel free to customize the spice level based on your preference or experiment with different dips!
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining bold flavors and a delightful texture that make them perfect for any occasion. These tender meatballs are infused with Korean spices and served with a creamy, spicy mayo dip that adds an irresistible twist. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these flavorful bites will elevate your appetizer game and leave everyone craving more. Plus, they are easy to prepare, taking only 40 minutes from start to finish. Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish alongside rice or noodles for a versatile meal option.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- ¼ cup soy sauce (for glaze)
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tbsp gochujang (for glaze)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (for glaze)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (for glaze)
- 1 tsp garlic, minced (for glaze)
- 1 tsp ginger, minced (for glaze)
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken glaze)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (for dip)
- 1 tbsp gochujang (for dip)
- 1 tbsp lime juice (for dip)
- 1 tsp honey (for dip)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (for dip)
- Sesame seeds (garnish)
- Chopped green onions (garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, panko, egg, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and green onions. Mix until just combined.
- Form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs.
- Bake on a baking sheet for 18–20 minutes or air fry for 10–12 minutes until cooked through.
- Prepare the glaze by simmering soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan until heated through. Thicken with cornstarch mixed with water.
- Toss the cooked meatballs in the warm glaze until fully coated.
- For the spicy mayo dip, whisk together mayonnaise, gochujang, lime juice, honey, and garlic powder in a small bowl until smooth.
- Serve meatballs garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions alongside the spicy mayo dip.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking/Air Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meatballs (100g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
