If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances bold flavors with comforting textures, you will fall head over heels for this Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe. These tender, juicy meatballs soaked in savory Korean BBQ sauce and paired with a creamy, zesty spicy mayo dip create an unbeatable combo that excites your taste buds with every bite. Whether you are whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, this recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare yet packed with authentic, crave-worthy flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these irresistible meatballs. Each component plays a role in delivering the signature flavor, texture, and color that make this Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe so special.
- Lean ground beef: Provides a hearty, juicy base that holds together beautifully without greasiness.
- Green onions: Adds freshness and a mild onion aroma that brightens the meatballs.
- Garlic cloves: Infuses robust, aromatic warmth to deepen the flavor profile.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Keeps the meatballs tender by locking in moisture while giving a perfect light texture.
- Large egg: Acts as a binder, ensuring the meatballs maintain their shape during cooking.
- Korean BBQ sauce: Brings the unmistakable sweet and savory punch that defines the dish.
- Sriracha sauce: Turns up the heat in the spicy mayo dip with a delightful chili kick.
- Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt): Adds creaminess and balances the spiciness with a cool, tangy finish.
- Toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkle on top for a nutty crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F so that it’s ready for baking the meatballs at the ideal temperature. Gather all your fresh ingredients, making sure the green onions are finely chopped and garlic is minced to release their full flavors.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, minced garlic, green onions, panko breadcrumbs, and the egg. Using clean hands or a spoon, mix gently until all ingredients are just incorporated—overmixing can make the meatballs dense.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Roll the mixture into uniform 1-inch meatballs to ensure even cooking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, which helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and beautifully browned.
Step 4: Prepare the Spicy Mayo Dip
While the meatballs are baking, whisk together mayonnaise and sriracha sauce in a small bowl. Adjust the sriracha quantity to your preferred spice level for a dipping sauce that perfectly complements the Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe.
Step 5: Coat Meatballs with BBQ Sauce
Once baked, transfer the meatballs to a clean bowl and gently drizzle the Korean BBQ sauce over them. Toss carefully so every meatball is coated in that signature sweet and savory glaze that makes this recipe shine.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Serve the warm, saucy meatballs alongside the spicy mayo dip. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds to add a delightful crunch and nutty aroma that completes the dish.
How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds over the meatballs is my favorite finishing touch as it adds texture and a lovely burst of nutty flavor. A few extra chopped green onions scattered on top also brighten the appearance and add freshness.
Side Dishes
Serving these Korean BBQ Meatballs with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice keeps the meal comforting and filling. For a lighter option, pair them with a crisp Asian-inspired slaw or sautéed greens seasoned with garlic and sesame oil to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your presentation by serving the meatballs on skewers as an appetizer or arrange them on a platter with small bowls of spicy mayo dip for dipping fun. You could also stuff them into slider buns with a drizzle of the sauce for a playful twist perfect for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days. They hold their flavor well and are great for a quick snack or meal the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save them longer, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months without losing their delicious taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through, or microwave covered for about 1 to 2 minutes. Refresh the spicy mayo dip if needed before serving to recapture its creamy tang.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey are great lean alternatives that will still work well in this Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe. Just watch the cooking time as they might cook slightly faster and can be a bit drier, so you might add a touch more moisture like a splash of soy sauce or a bit more BBQ sauce.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can make vegetarian meatballs using mashed chickpeas, black beans, or lentils combined with breadcrumbs and seasonings, then follow the same baking and sauce procedure. The Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe theme stays intact with a plant-based twist.
How can I adjust the spice level in the mayo dip?
It’s incredibly easy to customize the heat. Simply add more or less sriracha when mixing the mayo depending on your spice preference. For a milder option, you can substitute sriracha with a sweet chili sauce or omit it altogether and add a pinch of smoked paprika for flavor.
Can I make the meatballs entirely by hand without a mixer?
Definitely! This recipe is designed to be simple and approachable. Using your hands or a large spoon to mix the meatball ingredients ensures you don’t overwork the meat and result in tender, juicy meatballs every time.
What’s the best way to ensure the meatballs stay moist?
The key is using panko breadcrumbs and a binding egg in the mixture, which help lock in moisture. Also, baking rather than frying keeps the meatballs juicy without absorbing extra oil. Don’t forget to toss them in the Korean BBQ sauce right after baking to infuse even more flavor and moisture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that brings irresistible Korean flavors into a comforting bite-sized treat, you simply must try this Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe. Its straightforward ingredients and step-by-step approach deliver big taste without fuss, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinners or social gatherings. Trust me, these meatballs will become an instant favorite. So grab your apron, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious moment!
Print
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a flavorful, easy-to-make appetizer or main dish featuring juicy beef meatballs baked to perfection, coated in savory Korean BBQ sauce, and paired with a zesty sriracha mayo dip. Perfect for game day, parties, or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
Sauce and Garnish
- ½ cup Korean BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust for spice)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for healthier option)
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s ready to bake the meatballs perfectly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef, minced garlic, chopped green onions, panko breadcrumbs, and egg until the mixture is uniform.
- Form Meatballs: Roll the beef mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
- Prepare Spicy Mayo Dip: While the meatballs bake, whisk together mayonnaise and sriracha sauce in a small bowl to create a creamy, spicy dipping sauce.
- Coat Meatballs: Remove the baked meatballs from the oven and drizzle the Korean BBQ sauce over them, gently tossing to coat evenly without breaking apart.
- Serve: Serve the warm, sauced meatballs alongside the spicy mayo dip, garnished with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty finish.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter, healthier dip.
- Adjust the sriracha in the spicy mayo to suit your heat preference.
- Panko breadcrumbs help give the meatballs a light texture; regular breadcrumbs can be used but may affect the texture.
- Ensure meatballs are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- These meatballs are great as an appetizer or served over rice or noodles for a full meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean
