A plate of succulent Korean BBQ meatballs with spicy mayo dip is like a hug in food form. Imagine sinking your teeth into those tender morsels bursting with flavor, while the zesty sauce dances on your taste buds like it’s auditioning for a part in “Dancing with the Stars.” This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that makes you feel alive and craving more after every bite.
I remember the first time I made these little gems. My friends gathered for game night, and as soon as I pulled them out of the oven, their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning. The anticipation was palpable. Little did they know they were about to embark on a flavor journey that would have them asking for seconds— and maybe thirds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These easy-to-make Korean BBQ meatballs pack a punch of flavor that will impress your guests
- The spicy mayo dip adds an irresistible kick that’s hard to resist
- Visually stunning and vibrant in color, they are perfect for any occasion
- Enjoy them as appetizers or main dishes; they fit right in anywhere!
I still chuckle at my friend who declared he could eat these meatballs every day for the rest of his life— he wasn’t joking.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef or Pork: Choose lean ground beef or pork for juicy meatballs; both options work wonderfully.
- Green Onions: Freshly chopped green onions add a burst of freshness and mild onion flavor.
- Garlic Cloves: Use minced fresh garlic to pack a flavorful punch into each bite.
- Breadcrumbs: Regular or panko breadcrumbs help bind the mixture together and maintain moisture.
- Korean Barbecue Sauce: Opt for store-bought or homemade sauce to infuse authentic flavors into your meatballs.
- Sesame Oil: A drizzle of sesame oil enhances the nutty aroma and flavor profile.
- Eggs: One egg helps bind everything together nicely for perfect texture.
- Sriracha Sauce: For those who love heat, Sriracha is essential in the spicy mayo dip!
- Mayonnaise: Creamy mayonnaise serves as a base for the dip and balances spice beautifully.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds make for delightful garnish and an added crunch factor!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef or pork with breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped green onions, egg, sesame oil, and half of the barbecue sauce until well mixed.
Shape Your Meatballs: With clean hands (or rubber gloves if you’re fancy), roll the mixture into equal-sized balls—about two tablespoons each—to ensure even cooking.
Bake Those Bad Boys: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange your formed meatballs on a lined baking sheet and brush lightly with remaining barbecue sauce before baking for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Create Your Spicy Mayo Dip: While your meatballs bake away deliciously, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and a dash of sesame oil in a small bowl until smooth and creamy—taste-testing is encouraged!
Pile It All Together: Once baked to perfection, remove your meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with extra barbecue sauce if desired and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.
Savor Every Bite: Serve warm alongside your spicy mayo dip and watch everyone devour these savory delights in minutes!
Now go ahead! Grab those ingredients and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you later!
You Must Know
- These Korean BBQ Meatballs will bring a delightful twist to your dinner table
- The aroma of garlic and ginger wafting through the kitchen is simply irresistible, and the spicy mayo dip?
- It’s an absolute game-changer!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the meatball ingredients together. While they chill, whip up the spicy mayo dip. Bake or pan-fry the meatballs until golden brown for a crisp exterior and juicy inside.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also play with spices—add sesame oil or fresh herbs to elevate flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For juicy meatballs, don’t overmix; just combine until everything is evenly distributed
- If using lean meat, add breadcrumbs or an egg for moisture
- Letting them rest helps flavors meld beautifully before cooking
The first time I made these Korean BBQ Meatballs, my friends couldn’t stop raving about them—they even suggested I start a food truck!
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Korean BBQ meatballs?
Yes, ground turkey works wonderfully and keeps them lighter while still flavorful.
What can I serve with Korean BBQ meatballs?
Serve them with steamed rice, salad, or as sliders with your favorite toppings.
How do I make the spicy mayo dip milder?
To tone down the heat, reduce sriracha or mix in some mayonnaise for creaminess.
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a flavor explosion that combines savory meatballs with a creamy, spicy dip. Perfect for parties or a cozy dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup Korean barbecue sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
- dash of sesame oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, egg, sesame oil, and half of the barbecue sauce until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into equal-sized balls (about two tablespoons each) and place them on a lined baking sheet. Brush with remaining barbecue sauce.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- While baking, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, and sesame oil for the dip.
- Serve warm with spicy mayo dip.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (90g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg