If you are craving a dish that combines bold Korean flavors with the comforting charm of meatballs, this Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe is absolutely the one to try. Juicy beef meatballs infused with a perfect balance of soy, ginger, and garlic, baked to a tender finish, and paired with a creamy, zesty spicy mayo dip that gives just the right kick. This dish manages to be both comforting and exciting, making it an instant favorite for weeknight dinners or even your next gather-around-the-table snack. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and surprisingly simple, so get ready to impress your taste buds and your guests with this savory delight!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here, just a handful of simple but essential ingredients that work harmoniously to create those signature Korean BBQ flavors and that deliciously creamy, spicy dip. Each ingredient brings a touch of authenticity, texture, or a pop of color that makes this recipe shine.
- Ground beef: The juicy base that holds all the flavors and keeps the meatballs tender.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Adds lightness and a delicate texture to the meatballs.
- Soy sauce: Brings the essential salty umami that defines Korean BBQ taste.
- Sesame oil: A little goes a long way to infuse the meatballs with a warm, nutty aroma.
- Honey: Balances the savoriness with a touch of natural sweetness.
- Grated ginger: Adds a fresh zing that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Minced garlic: A kitchen must-have for that robust, aromatic punch.
- Chopped green onions: Provides a subtle crunch and a burst of color.
- Egg: Acts as the binder to hold everything together perfectly.
- Rice vinegar: Adds a mild acidity to the spicy mayo dip, balancing richness.
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste): Delivers authentic heat with a slightly sweet depth.
- Sesame seeds: For garnish, adding a little crunch and a classic finishing touch.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the spicy mayo dip.
- Sriracha sauce: Adds a fiery kick to the dip, blending well with the lime juice.
- Lime juice: Lifts the dip with fresh, vibrant citrus notes.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully in both meatballs and dip.
How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your meatballs will cook evenly and develop a lovely browned exterior.
Step 2: Combine the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, chopped green onions, and the egg. Each component contributes to a complex yet balanced flavor and keeps the texture just right.
Step 3: Mix Thoroughly
Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything evenly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. This will make sure every meatball bursts with flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Shape the Meatballs
Form the mixture into small, uniform meatballs roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Placing them evenly sized lets them cook consistently and look inviting.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking tray with parchment paper, arrange the meatballs, then drizzle a bit of sesame oil over them. This final touch prevents sticking and ensures an irresistibly nutty aroma.
Step 6: Bake until Perfect
Pop the tray in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. You want the meatballs browned on the outside and fully cooked inside. The wait is worth it, trust me!
Step 7: Make the Spicy Mayo Dip
While baking, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lime juice, and salt in a small bowl. This creamy, tangy, and spicy sauce is the perfect partner for those savory meatballs.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the meatballs sit for a few minutes to lock in the juices. Then, serve them warm alongside the spicy mayo dip and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for that iconic touch.
How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions over the meatballs to add texture and a burst of fresh color. A small wedge of lime on the side can be a lovely touch for those who want an extra zing.
Side Dishes
These meatballs go wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy sticky rice, which soak up any leftover sauce beautifully. Alternatively, serve with a crisp Asian slaw or stir-fried vegetables for a fresh contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, arrange meatballs on a stylish platter with small dipping bowls of spicy mayo and even extra gochujang on the side. You can also serve them on lettuce wraps topped with fresh herbs for a handheld delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool the meatballs completely before transferring them into an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making for easy next-day meals or snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze these meatballs either cooked or uncooked. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months without losing their delicious flavor.
Reheating
Reheat meatballs gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave for a minute or two. Just be sure to reheat the spicy mayo dip separately, as it’s best served fresh or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground pork, turkey, or chicken can be great alternatives. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as leaner meats might cook a little faster.
Is gochujang spicy? Can I omit it?
Gochujang has a mild to moderate spice level with a hint of sweetness, which adds depth to the meatballs. If you want to skip the heat, replace it with a mild chili paste or just a bit more honey for sweetness.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers and check that the soy sauce you use is gluten-free (tamari is a great alternative).
Can I make the spicy mayo dip vegan?
Yes! Substitute regular mayonnaise with a vegan mayo brand. The rest of the dip ingredients remain the same, preserving that spicy creamy goodness.
Are these meatballs great for meal prep?
Definitely. These Korean BBQ meatballs store beautifully and reheat well, making them a flavorful and convenient option for lunch or dinner during the busy week.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got this Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe up your sleeve, you’re ready to bring some incredible flavors to your kitchen anytime. This recipe is a fun fusion of comforting and exciting tastes that always impress, whether for a cozy dinner or sharing with friends. Dive in and enjoy every bite — trust me, these meatballs will quickly become one of your most requested dishes!
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Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: 4 servings (about 20 meatballs)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
Delicious Korean BBQ Meatballs baked to perfection and served with a zesty spicy mayo dip, combining savory, sweet, and spicy flavors with a hint of sesame for an irresistible appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Spicy Mayo Dip:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the meatballs evenly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, chopped green onions, and egg. This mixture creates the flavorful meatball base.
- Mix Thoroughly: Use your hands or a spoon to mix all ingredients together until evenly incorporated, ensuring the flavors are well blended.
- Shape Meatballs: Form the mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Drizzle Sesame Oil: Lightly drizzle sesame oil over the meatballs for added flavor and to help prevent them from sticking together while baking.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
- Prepare Spicy Mayo Dip: While the meatballs bake, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lime juice, and salt in a small bowl to create a creamy, spicy dipping sauce.
- Rest Meatballs: Remove the meatballs from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes to let the juices settle.
- Serve: Serve the hot meatballs with the spicy mayo dip on the side, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top as a garnish for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for panko.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha in the dip based on your preferred spice level.
- Ground beef with about 15% fat content works best for juicy meatballs.
- You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate before baking for convenience.
- Garnish with extra chopped green onions for added freshness.
