Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a delightful blend of savory flavors that can elevate any meal. Perfect for game day, family gatherings, or as a unique appetizer at dinner parties, this recipe is suitable for various occasions. The sticky glaze and creamy dip create an irresistible combination that is sure to impress your guests while being easy enough for beginner cooks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Takes only 40 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The umami-rich sauce paired with spicy mayo delivers an unforgettable taste experience.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as appetizers, main dishes, or even in meal prep for the week.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit with friends and family—everyone loves meatballs!
- Beginner-Friendly: Simple steps ensure success even for novice cooks.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making these delicious Korean BBQ meatballs, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients evenly without making a mess.
- Baking sheet: Provides ample space to cook multiple meatballs at once, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Help maintain accurate measurements for perfect flavor balance.
- Baking paper: Prevents sticking and makes clean-up effortless.
Ingredients
These Korean BBQ Meatballs are glazed in a sticky, umami-rich sauce and paired with a creamy spicy mayo dip for the perfect balance of heat and flavor. Whether as an appetizer or main dish, this beginner-friendly recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground chicken
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
For the Glaze
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken)
For the Spicy Mayo Dip
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon gochujang
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For 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. Ground beef (or chicken)
2. Panko breadcrumbs
3. Egg
4. Minced garlic
5. Grated ginger
6. Soy sauce
7. Gochujang
8. Brown sugar
9. Sesame oil
10. Salt
11. Black pepper
12. Chopped green onions
Gently mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands or a small scoop:
– Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
– Place them on a plate or baking sheet as you shape them.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Preheat your oven or skillet:
– If using an oven, preheat to 400°F (200°C).
– If using a skillet, heat over medium-high heat.
Cook until browned on all sides; check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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 ginger.
– Bring to a simmer; add cornstarch mixture to thicken.
Step 5: Serve with Spicy Mayo Dip
For the dip:
– In a bowl, mix mayonnaise with gochujang, lime juice, honey, and garlic powder until smooth.
Serve meatballs drizzled with glaze alongside spicy mayo dip garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Enjoy these flavorful Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip!
How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
These Korean BBQ meatballs are versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. Whether you want to impress guests at a party or enjoy a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish!
As an Appetizer
- Serve the meatballs on toothpicks for easy snacking at parties.
- Pair with extra spicy mayo dip on the side for added flavor.
In a Wrap
- Place meatballs in a lettuce wrap, topped with sliced cucumbers and carrots for a fresh crunch.
- Drizzle additional spicy mayo for a zesty kick.
Over Rice
- Serve the meatballs over steamed jasmine rice or sushi rice to soak up the flavors.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
On Skewers
- Thread meatballs onto skewers for a fun twist at your next barbecue.
- Brush with extra glaze during grilling for more caramelization.
How to Perfect Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
To ensure your Korean BBQ meatballs come out delicious every time, here are some helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor of your meatballs.
- Don’t Overmix: Combine ingredients gently to keep the meatballs tender and light.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of gochujang based on your heat preference.
- Preheat Cooking Surface: Ensure your pan or grill is hot before adding meatballs for perfect browning.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Let Them Rest: Allow cooked meatballs to sit briefly before serving; this helps retain moisture.
Best Side Dishes for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Pairing side dishes with your Korean BBQ meatballs can create a complete meal. Here are some fantastic options!
- Kimchi: A traditional fermented side that adds spice and tanginess to balance flavors.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple, healthy, and provides a nice contrast to the rich meatballs.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad that complements the heat of the spicy mayo dip.
- Rice Cakes: Chewy rice cakes offer a unique texture and can be sautéed in soy sauce for flavor.
- Pickled Radishes: Bright and tangy pickles help cleanse the palate between bites of flavorful meatball.
- Korean Fried Rice: A hearty option that can absorb the sauce from the meatballs beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overmixing the Meat: Overmixing can lead to dense meatballs. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
- Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the meatballs to sit in the marinade can reduce flavor depth. Always let them marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ground meat can affect cooking time and texture. Let your meat sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before mixing.
- Not Measuring Ingredients: Eyeballing ingredients may alter taste and texture. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, especially with soy sauce and gochujang.
- Ignoring Cooking Temperature: Cooking at the wrong temperature can lead to unevenly cooked meatballs. Ensure your pan or oven is preheated properly.
- Neglecting to Garnish: Skipping garnishes like sesame seeds or chopped green onions misses out on added flavor and presentation. Always finish with fresh toppings.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Place cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about more details? Here are some common questions regarding Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip:
How do I make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip?
You simply mix ground beef or chicken with spices, form into meatballs, bake them, and serve with a spicy mayo dip.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes! Ground turkey or pork can be excellent substitutes while still delivering great flavor.
What should I serve with Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip?
These meatballs pair well with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Are Korean BBQ Meatballs spicy?
The spiciness depends on how much gochujang you use. Adjust according to your preference!
Can I prepare these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and store them before cooking. Just refrigerate or freeze as needed.
Final Thoughts
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, they can easily cater to various tastes by adjusting spice levels or ingredients. Try this recipe today and impress your family and friends!
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip deliver a mouthwatering fusion of savory and spicy flavors that are perfect for any occasion. These tender meatballs, glazed in a sticky, umami-rich sauce, are complemented by a creamy spicy mayo dip that adds a delightful kick. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, celebrating with family, or looking for an impressive appetizer, this easy recipe is beginner-friendly yet sure to wow your guests. In just one hour, you’ll have a flavorful dish that caters to all taste buds and elevates any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1-inch piece ginger (grated)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions (finely chopped)
- ¼ cup soy sauce (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced, for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon ginger (minced, for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken glaze)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (for dip)
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (for dip)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (for dip)
- 1 teaspoon honey (for dip)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for dip)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and chopped green onions. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs (1 to 1.5 inches) and place on a baking sheet.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the meatballs until browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For the glaze, in a saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, ginger, and cornstarch mixture until thickened.
- For the spicy mayo dip, mix mayonnaise with gochujang, lime juice, honey, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Serve meatballs drizzled with glaze alongside the spicy mayo dip garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (approximately 120g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
