Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Published:

by Nora

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are the perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, making them a fantastic choice for various occasions. Whether it’s a casual family dinner, an exciting game day snack, or a hit at your next party, these meatballs are sure to impress. Each bite is a delightful experience, thanks to the juicy meatballs coated in a savory glaze and paired with a creamy dip that brings everything together.

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • flavors – The combination of gochujang and sesame oil creates an unforgettable taste experience.
  • Easy preparation – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to whip these up in no time.
  • Versatile serving options – Enjoy them as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a main course alongside rice or noodles.
  • Crowd-pleaser – Family and friends will rave about these flavorful meatballs at any gathering.
  • Customizable heat – Adjust the spiciness by modifying the amount of gochujang in the recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your kitchen tools. They’ll make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet or air fryer basket
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

  • Mixing bowl – A large bowl allows for easy combining of all ingredients without mess.
  • Baking sheet or air fryer basket – Both options provide an easy way to cook meatballs evenly.
  • Saucepan – Perfect for making your glaze while keeping it warm until serving.
  • Whisk – Essential for smoothly mixing the spicy mayo dip without lumps.

Ingredients

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are bursting with bold flavors and a hint of spice. Juicy, tender meatballs are coated in a sweet and savory glaze, paired with a creamy and spicy dip for the ultimate appetizer or dinner option. Perfect for parties, game days, or family dinners, this recipe is sure to impress!

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 the ingredients for the meatballs. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep them tender.

Step 2: Form Meatballs

Form the mixture into evenly sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This ensures even cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

You can choose either baking or air frying:
Baking method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes.
Air fryer method: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook meatballs for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Let it simmer before adding in the cornstarch slurry to thicken.

Step 5: Coat Meatballs in Glaze

Once cooked, toss the meatballs in the warm glaze until they are fully coated.

Step 6: Make Spicy Mayo Dip

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, gochujang, lime juice, honey, and garlic powder until smooth.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer glazed meatballs onto a serving plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving alongside your spicy mayo dip.

Enjoy your delicious Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip!

How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a festive occasion, these meatballs are sure to impress.

As an Appetizer

  • Serve warm on toothpicks for easy eating.
  • Pair with a variety of dipping sauces for guests to choose from.

In a Lettuce Wrap

  • Wrap meatballs in fresh lettuce leaves for a refreshing bite.
  • Add sliced cucumbers and carrots for extra crunch.

On a Rice Bowl

  • Place the meatballs over steamed rice or quinoa.
  • Drizzle with additional glaze for more flavor.

With Veggie Sticks

  • Serve alongside an array of crunchy vegetable sticks like carrot and celery.
  • This adds a healthy touch and balances the richness of the meatballs.
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How to Perfect Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Perfecting Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip involves attention to detail in preparation and cooking. Follow these tips for the best results.

  • Use fresh ingredients: Using fresh garlic and ginger enhances the flavor significantly.
  • Don’t overmix: Mix the meatball ingredients gently to maintain tenderness.
  • Experiment with heat: Adjust the amount of gochujang in both the glaze and dip according to your spice tolerance.
  • Check doneness: Ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.
  • Let them rest: Allow cooked meatballs to rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps retain their juices.
  • Customize toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like crushed peanuts or cilantro for added flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

To complement your Korean BBQ Meatballs, consider serving them with delicious side dishes. These options will enhance your meal while adding variety.

  1. Kimchi: A traditional fermented dish that offers a spicy, tangy contrast to the meatballs.
  2. Steamed Rice: Perfectly fluffy rice acts as a neutral base that absorbs flavors well.
  3. Cucumber Salad: A light salad with rice vinegar and sesame oil provides freshness and crunch.
  4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries add sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory flavors.
  5. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing brings color and texture.
  6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini add charred flavor and nutrition.
  7. Egg Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice dish makes it hearty while still being light enough not to overpower the meatballs.
  8. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is comforting and rounds out the meal nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

  • Using the wrong meat: Selecting only one type of meat can lead to less flavor and texture. A blend of beef and pork enhances taste and juiciness.
  • Skipping the breadcrumbs: Not adding panko breadcrumbs can result in dense meatballs. Panko keeps them light and tender, so don’t skip this step!
  • Overmixing the meat: Mixing too aggressively can make the meatballs tough. Gently combine ingredients until just mixed for optimal tenderness.
  • Ignoring glaze consistency: If your glaze is too thin, it won’t stick well to the meatballs. Make sure to thicken it properly using the cornstarch slurry.
  • Not measuring ingredients accurately: Guessing ingredient amounts can lead to imbalanced flavors. Use precise measurements for best results.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store Korean BBQ meatballs in an airtight container.
  • They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

  • Place cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
  • Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
  • Microwave: Heat on high in 30-second increments until warm, covering with a damp paper towel.
  • Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a lighter alternative. Just be aware that it may result in a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with Korean BBQ Meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with rice, steamed vegetables, or even as a filling for lettuce wraps.

How spicy are these meatballs?

The heat level comes from gochujang. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference for milder or spicier meatballs.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture and store it in the fridge overnight before cooking. The glaze can also be made ahead.

Final Thoughts

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, they cater to various occasions. Feel free to customize them by adding more spices or adjusting sweetness levels according to your taste!

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Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip


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  • Author: Nora
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 meatballs (6 servings) 1x

Description

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are an irresistible fusion of sweet and spicy flavors, perfect for any gathering. These tender meatballs, made from a blend of ground beef and pork, are coated in a savory glaze that brings a mouthwatering depth to each bite. Paired with a creamy spicy mayo dip, they make for an unforgettable appetizer or snack for game days, parties, or family dinners. Easy to prepare and customizable to your spice preference, this dish will surely impress your guests and keep them coming back for more!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (or beef and pork mix)
  • 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 spicy mayo dip)
  • 1 tbsp gochujang (for spicy mayo dip)
  • 1 tbsp lime juice (for spicy mayo dip)
  • 1 tsp honey (for spicy mayo dip)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (for spicy mayo dip)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, salt, pepper, and green onions. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Form the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
  3. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
  4. While they cook, prepare the glaze by simmering soy sauce, honey/brown sugar, gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger in a saucepan; thicken with cornstarch slurry.
  5. Toss cooked meatballs in the warm glaze before serving with spicy mayo dip.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking/Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 meatballs (85g)
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 590mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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