Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip is a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and bring the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine right into your home. These delectable bite-sized meatballs are savory, slightly sweet, and have a kick of spice that makes them utterly irresistible. The combination of ground meat, fresh garlic, and fragrant ginger infuses every ball with flavor, while the spicy mayo dip adds a creamy and zesty contrast. This dish is not just a feast for the senses; it’s also straightforward to prepare, making it the perfect choice for family dinners, casual gatherings, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Along with the detailed step-by-step directions, you’ll find everything you need to whip up this comforting and satisfying recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Korean BBQ Meatballs are the epitome of convenience and flavor. With minimal ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen, this recipe simplifies meal prep without compromising on taste. The quick cooking time—just 20 minutes in the oven—makes this dish a fantastic option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Plus, they are perfectly sized for popping in your mouth, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike. Add in the spicy mayo dip, and you have a crowd-pleaser that everyone will ask for seconds of!

Ingredients

To make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb ground beef (or pork/chicken): This juicy meat serves as the foundation, offering a delightful bite in each meatball. Feel free to choose your favorite protein!
2 green onions, finely chopped: These add a fresh, aromatic finish that enhances the flavor profile.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic brings in that warm, comforting aroma that complements the dish perfectly.
1 tsp grated ginger: Ginger adds a zesty and slightly spicy note that elevates the overall flavor.
1 egg: This helps bind the ingredients together, ensuring the meatballs hold their shape during baking.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: They create a tender texture while soaking in all those delicious flavors.
1 tbsp soy sauce: This savory element contributes umami and depth to the meatballs.
1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste): This spicy-sweet paste is the key to authentic Korean flavor.
1 tbsp brown sugar: A hint of sweetness balances the spice and enriches the overall taste.
1 tbsp sesame oil: This oil adds a nutty, fragrant quality to the mix.
1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper: Seasonings bring everything together beautifully.
Sesame seeds and chopped scallions, for garnish: Final touches that add crunch and brightness.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creamy and rich, this is the base for your dip.
1–2 tbsp sriracha (to taste): This adds the right amount of heat to the mayo for a spicy kick.
1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice: A splash of acidity to brighten the flavors.
Pinch of sugar (optional): Adjust the sweetness to your liking.

These ingredients come together to create something truly magical—juicy meatballs paired with a creamy, spicy dip that you won’t be able to resist!

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that your meatballs will cook evenly and develop a nice golden-brown exterior.
Prepare your baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Lightly grease it to prevent the meatballs from sticking.
Mix the meatball ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, egg, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring that the flavors are evenly distributed.
Form the meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them evenly to allow for proper cooking.
Bake to perfection: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through. For an extra touch of caramelization, broil them for an additional 2 minutes at the end.
Prepare the spicy mayo dip: While the meatballs are baking, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, rice vinegar or lime juice, and sugar (if using) in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the amount of sriracha according to your heat preference.
Serve and enjoy: Once the meatballs are finished baking, plate them up and drizzle or dip them in the spicy mayo. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions for that final touch of flavor and texture.

Tips & Tricks

Don’t overmix the meat: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the meatballs tender.
Use a cookie scoop: For uniform meatballs, a cookie scoop can help you achieve evenly sized portions effortlessly.
Experiment with proteins: You can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter dish.
Spice control: Adjust the amount of gochujang and sriracha based on your spice tolerance—feel free to start with less and taste as you go!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Korean BBQ Meatballs make a fantastic appetizer for parties or movie nights. They can also be served as part of a delightful feast alongside steamed rice, simple stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh Asian salad for a complete meal. Consider pairing these meatballs with a refreshing cucumber salad or some pickled vegetables to balance the richness. They also make for great leftovers in a make-your-own lettuce wrap station!

Nutritional Information

These flavorful meatballs are not only delicious but are also fairly balanced. A serving (about 4 meatballs) typically contains:

Calories: Approximately 240-300 calories
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 1g

These meatballs are a tasty source of protein while still being moderate in calories. Remember to pair them with fresh vegetables to enhance nutritional balance!

Storing Tips & Variations

If you have any leftovers (though it’s unlikely), let the meatballs cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Reheat straight from frozen in a preheated oven until warmed through.

For variations, try adding different spices or herbs to the mix, such as sesame seeds or cilantro. You can also experiment with different dipping sauces, like teriyaki or sweet chili, for new flavor profiles!

Conclusion

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a must-try recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With their easy preparation and mouthwatering flavor, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Don’t wait any longer—make these delightful meatballs today and share your experience with us in the comments below!

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
- Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works wonderfully in this recipe.
How spicy are these meatballs?
- The spice level can vary depending on how much gochujang and sriracha you use. Feel free to adjust these ingredients to suit your taste!
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to cook.
What can I serve with Korean BBQ Meatballs?
- They pair beautifully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or as part of a larger platter of appetizers.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
- Yes, baking is a healthier option and works perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking!

Try making these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip today, and enjoy the flavors of Korea right in your own kitchen!