Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a delightful fusion of flavors that make every bite an experience. Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to lively parties, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The juicy meatballs are enveloped in a sweet and savory glaze, complemented by a creamy dip that packs a spicy kick. Get ready to impress your guests with this delicious recipe!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavors: The combination of gochujang and sesame oil creates a unique taste that will excite your palate.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these meatballs can be prepared quickly, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or even as part of a main course alongside rice or noodles.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang in the meatballs and dip to suit your spice preference.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These meatballs store well in the fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy them later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make cooking smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet (or air fryer basket)
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without spilling.
• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to cook meatballs evenly in the oven.
• Saucepan: Ideal for preparing the glaze that enhances the meatballs’ flavor.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing sauces smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip require simple yet 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 the following ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (or pork mix)
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 cloves minced garlic
1-inch grated ginger
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp gochujang
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp sesame oil
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 finely chopped green onions

Mix gently until just combined.

Step 2: Form and Cook the Meatballs

Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

For baking:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes.

For air frying:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Cook meatballs for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Step 3: Prepare the Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine:
¼ cup soy sauce
2 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
1 tbsp gochujang
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp minced ginger

Simmer this mixture gently. Then stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken it.

Step 4: Coat Meatballs with Glaze

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

Step 5: Make the Spicy Mayo Dip

In a small bowl whisk together:
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp gochujang
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp honey
½ tsp garlic powder

Mix until smooth.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer glazed meatballs to a serving plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot with spicy mayo dip on the side. Enjoy!

How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are not just flavorful; they also make for a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As Appetizers

• Serve the meatballs on toothpicks for easy eating at parties or gatherings.
• Pair them with fresh veggie sticks for a crunchy contrast.

With Rice

• Place the meatballs over a bed of steamed rice, allowing the glaze to soak into the grains.
• Use jasmine or sticky rice for an authentic touch.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Wrap the meatballs in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option.
• Add shredded carrots and cucumber for extra crunch and flavor.

On Noodle Bowls

• Create a delicious noodle bowl by adding cooked noodles and drizzling with the spicy mayo dip.
• Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish.

As Part of a Platter

• Arrange the meatballs on a large platter alongside dipping sauces, veggies, and other appetizers.
• This makes it perfect for sharing during game days or family dinners.

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How to Perfect Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

To truly master these Korean BBQ Meatballs, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your dish and ensure delightful flavors every time you prepare it.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor of your meatballs significantly compared to powdered versions.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combine your ingredients to keep the meatballs tender and juicy; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Experiment with proteins: Mix ground beef with ground pork or turkey for different textures and flavors in your meatballs.
• Adjust the heat: Customize the spiciness by varying the amount of gochujang in both the glaze and mayo dip according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Pairing side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement your Korean BBQ Meatballs perfectly.

1. Kimchi: A traditional Korean side made from fermented vegetables, offering a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the meatballs.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed, this vegetable adds color and nutrients while providing a mild flavor contrast.
3. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber slices tossed in vinegar create a crisp side that cleanses the palate between bites.
4. Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice dish can serve as a hearty base under your meatballs, soaking up all those delicious juices.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with salt and pepper add a satisfying crunch to your meal.
6. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing enhances texture and flavor complexity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using stale breadcrumbs: Fresh panko breadcrumbs help create a light and airy texture in meatballs. Always check the expiration date or use newly opened breadcrumbs for the best results.

• Overmixing the meatball mixture: Mixing too vigorously can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed to ensure they stay tender.

• Skipping the glaze: The sweet and savory glaze is essential for flavor. Don’t skip this step; it elevates the dish and enhances the overall taste.

• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking times can vary based on methods. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safety and optimal texture.

• Not letting flavors meld: Allowing the glazed meatballs to sit for a few minutes before serving helps deepen the flavor. Patience pays off in deliciousness!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Korean BBQ Meatballs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep the spicy mayo dip in a separate container for best freshness.

Freezing Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

• Place cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place a few meatballs on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip:

How can I customize Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip?

You can add vegetables like finely chopped bell peppers or carrots to the meatball mixture for added nutrition and flavor. Adjust spices according to your preference as well.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the meatball mixture and shape them ahead of time. Store them in the fridge before cooking, or freeze them uncooked and bake them when needed.

What can I serve with Korean BBQ Meatballs?

These delicious meatballs pair well with rice, steamed vegetables, or even lettuce wraps. They also make an excellent appetizer at parties!

Are Korean BBQ Meatballs gluten-free?

If you need gluten-free options, substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are not only bursting with flavor but also versatile enough for any occasion. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, you can easily customize them based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy impressing your family and friends!

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Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

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• Author: Nora
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the bold flavors of Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip, a delectable fusion dish that is perfect for any occasion. These juicy meatballs are coated in a sweet and savory glaze made with gochujang, giving them an irresistible kick. Paired with a creamy spicy mayo dip, they are sure to impress your guests and elevate your dining experience. Whether served as appetizers at a party or as a main course alongside rice or noodles, these meatballs will delight your taste buds. Easy to prepare and customizable, this recipe is a must-try for any home cook looking to add a touch of Korean cuisine to their table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 (for 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 (garnish)
• Chopped green onions (garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and green onions. Mix until just combined.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs (1 to 1.5 inches in diameter).
4. Bake on a baking sheet for 18–20 minutes or air fry for 10–12 minutes.
5. Prepare the glaze by simmering soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and ginger in a saucepan until thickened.
6. Toss cooked meatballs in the warm glaze until fully coated.
7. For the spicy mayo dip, whisk together mayonnaise, gochujang, lime juice, honey, and garlic powder until smooth.
8. Serve meatballs garnished with sesame seeds and green onions alongside the spicy mayo dip.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer/Main
• Method: Baking/Frying
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 meatballs (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 70mg