Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a delicious blend of savory and spicy flavors that make them an ideal choice for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying game day, or having a family dinner, these meatballs will shine on your table. The juicy meatballs coated in a sweet and tangy glaze paired with a creamy, zesty dip will leave everyone wanting more.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Meatballs
• For the Glaze
• For the Spicy Mayo Dip
• Garnishes
• How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
• Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
• Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
• Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
• Step 4: Make the Glaze
• Step 5: Coat the Meatballs
• Step 6: Prepare Spicy Mayo Dip
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
• As an Appetizer
• On a Bed of Rice
• In Lettuce Wraps
• With Noodles
• At Game Day Parties
• How to Perfect Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
• Best Side Dishes for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
• Reheating Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
• What is gochujang?
• How do I customize the spicy mayo dip?
• Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavors: The combination of gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates a rich and unique taste that stands out.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main course with rice or noodles, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the amount of gochujang in both the meatballs and dip to suit your spice preference.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties or gatherings; it’s a dish that everyone will enjoy!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all meatball ingredients evenly.
• Baking sheet or air fryer basket: These tools help achieve perfectly cooked meatballs with a nice texture—crispy on the outside and tender inside.
• Saucepan: You’ll need this to prepare the flavorful glaze that coats the meatballs.
• Whisk: Useful for blending ingredients smoothly in the spicy mayo dip.

Ingredients

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip feature vibrant ingredients that create their signature flavor.

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

Garnishes

• 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:
– Ground beef
– Panko breadcrumbs
– Egg
– Minced garlic
– Grated ginger
– Soy sauce
– Gochujang
– Brown sugar
– Sesame oil
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Chopped green onions

Mix gently until just combined.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

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

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Choose your cooking method:
– Baking method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 18–20 minutes.
– Air fryer method: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Make 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.
– Simmer until combined. Stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken.

Step 5: Coat the Meatballs

Toss cooked meatballs in warm glaze until fully coated.

Step 6: Prepare 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 to a serving plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve alongside spicy mayo dip.

Enjoy your delicious Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip!

How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are not only flavorful but also versatile in how you can serve them. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy dinner, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the meatballs on toothpicks for easy snacking.
• Pair them with a small bowl of spicy mayo dip for dipping fun.

On a Bed of Rice

• Place the meatballs over steamed jasmine rice for a hearty meal.
• Drizzle extra glaze on top for added flavor.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves as wraps to create fresh and crunchy bites.
• Add shredded carrots and cucumber for extra crunch.

With Noodles

• Toss the meatballs with cooked rice noodles or soba noodles for a filling dish.
• Add some stir-fried vegetables for color and nutrition.

At Game Day Parties

• Serve the meatballs on a platter with various sauces for guests to choose from.
• Include chips or veggie sticks on the side for contrast.

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How to Perfect Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

To achieve the best results with your Korean BBQ Meatballs, keep these tips in mind.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the flavor significantly.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combine the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of gochujang according to your heat preference.
• Experiment with proteins: Try mixing beef and pork for a richer flavor profile.
• Keep them moist: Adding panko breadcrumbs helps maintain moisture during cooking.
• Rest before serving: Letting the meatballs sit for a few minutes after cooking allows flavors to meld.

Best Side Dishes for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Pairing side dishes with your Korean BBQ Meatballs can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors well.

1. Kimchi: This spicy fermented cabbage adds tanginess and crunch.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, it balances richness with its mild flavor.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that offers coolness against spicy meatballs.
4. Fried Rice: A savory option that absorbs flavors well and is easy to prepare.
5. Sesame Noodles: These provide an additional Asian flair and pair nicely with the meatballs.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness contrasts beautifully with savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip can be simple, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Skipping the Panko Breadcrumbs: Using regular breadcrumbs instead of panko can lead to denser meatballs. Stick with panko for lighter, airier texture.
• Overmixing the Ingredients: Mixing too vigorously can make the meatballs tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed for tender meatballs.
• Not Preheating the Oven or Air Fryer: Failing to preheat can affect cooking times and texture. Always preheat to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Ignoring the Sauce Consistency: If your glaze is too thin, it won’t coat the meatballs well. Use cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it properly.
• Serving Without Garnish: Neglecting to garnish can make your dish less appealing. Always add sesame seeds and green onions for extra flavor and presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

• Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or sauce 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, feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. The flavor will still be delicious!

What is gochujang?

Gochujang is a popular Korean chili paste that adds depth and spice. It’s essential for authentic flavor in Korean dishes.

How do I customize the spicy mayo dip?

You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less gochujang. Alternatively, try mixing in sriracha or lime zest for extra flavor.

Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking is a great alternative that still yields flavorful meatballs without added oil from frying.

Final Thoughts

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are not only flavorful but also versatile—perfect as an appetizer or main dish! You can easily customize them by adding vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful dish that everyone will love!