Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip: A Delicious Recipe

If you’re looking for a savory, spicy, and sweet dish that will captivate your taste buds, Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip is a perfect choice. This dish combines the rich flavors of Korean BBQ with tender, juicy meatballs, all coated in a tangy and slightly sweet glaze, and paired with a creamy spicy mayo dip. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a special meal for yourself, these meatballs will definitely become a crowd-pleaser.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips on how to make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip. From the perfectly seasoned meatballs to the sticky, glossy Korean BBQ glaze, to the zesty spicy mayo dip, this recipe is a balance of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

For the Meatballs:

The meatballs are the heart of this dish, combining ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork) with aromatic spices and seasonings that are characteristic of Korean cuisine.

  • 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 of 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 Korean BBQ Glaze:

The glaze is what brings all the components of the dish together. It’s a sweet, spicy, and savory mixture of gochujang, soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil that creates a rich and flavorful coating for the meatballs.

  • 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:

The spicy mayo dip adds a creamy element that perfectly complements the spicy and savory flavors of the meatballs. It’s smooth, tangy, and just the right amount of heat.

  • ½ cup mayonnaise

  • 1 tbsp gochujang

  • 1 tbsp lime juice

  • 1 tsp honey

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

For Garnish:

To make your Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip even more irresistible, top them off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

  • Sesame seeds

  • Chopped green onions

How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to make this mouthwatering dish. The process is simple and doesn’t take long, but the results are nothing short of spectacular. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip at home.

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients to create the meatball mixture:

  • Ground beef (or beef and pork mix)

  • Panko breadcrumbs

  • Egg

  • Minced garlic

  • Grated ginger

  • Soy sauce

  • Gochujang (Korean chili paste)

  • Brown sugar

  • Sesame oil

  • Salt and pepper

  • Chopped green onions

Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients together until fully combined. It’s important that the mixture is well-mixed so that the meatballs hold together during baking. Once the mixture is combined, form it into 1-inch meatballs. Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced evenly apart.

Step 2: Bake the Meatballs

Once your meatballs are shaped, bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown. You can check the internal temperature of the meatballs using a meat thermometer—aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.

While the meatballs are baking, you can prepare the Korean BBQ glaze and the spicy mayo dip.

Step 3: Prepare the Korean BBQ Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine the following ingredients to make the Korean BBQ glaze:

  • Soy sauce

  • Honey (or brown sugar)

  • Gochujang

  • Rice vinegar

  • Sesame oil

  • Minced garlic and ginger

Whisk everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for a couple of minutes, stirring occasionally. Once it starts to thicken, stir in the cornstarch-water mixture and continue to cook for 2-3 more minutes, or until the glaze has reached your desired thickness. Remove the saucepan from the heat.

Step 4: Make the Spicy Mayo Dip

In a separate bowl, combine the following ingredients to make the spicy mayo dip:

  • Mayonnaise

  • Gochujang

  • Lime juice

  • Honey

  • Garlic powder

Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. The spicy mayo dip should have a creamy texture with a balanced kick from the gochujang, a slight sweetness from the honey, and a tangy note from the lime juice.

Step 5: Toss the Meatballs in the Korean BBQ Glaze

Once the meatballs are baked and the glaze is ready, it’s time to assemble the dish. Place the meatballs in a large bowl and pour the Korean BBQ glaze over them. Gently toss the meatballs in the glaze until they are fully coated. The sticky glaze will give the meatballs a shiny, appetizing finish that will make them even more irresistible.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving platter and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a pop of color and texture. Serve the meatballs with the spicy mayo dip on the side, and enjoy!

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip: A Delicious Recipe

Tips for Perfect Korean BBQ Meatballs

Here are some helpful tips to ensure that your Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip turn out perfectly every time:

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresh ginger and garlic make a huge difference in the flavor of these meatballs. Grate the ginger yourself for the freshest taste.

  • Don’t Overmix the Meatball Mixture: When combining the ingredients for the meatballs, be careful not to overmix the meat. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so mix just until everything is incorporated.

  • Bake, Don’t Fry: Baking the meatballs in the oven ensures they stay tender and juicy. If you fry them, they may become greasy and dry out.

  • Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer your meatballs to be less spicy, reduce the amount of gochujang in both the meatball mixture and the glaze. If you like more heat, feel free to add extra gochujang.

Nutritional Information

While Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are undeniably delicious, they’re also packed with flavor. Each serving of meatballs with the spicy mayo dip contains approximately:

  • Calories: 250-300 (depending on portion size)

  • Protein: 18g

  • Carbohydrates: 15g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Sodium: 500mg

These numbers may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the type of ground meat or the quantity of glaze.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing with Sides

These Korean BBQ Meatballs go wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with:

  • Steamed rice or fried rice for a complete meal

  • Pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast to the richness of the meatballs

  • A simple green salad to add some freshness

  • Crispy fried potatoes or sweet potato fries for a hearty pairing

Perfect for Parties or Gatherings

These meatballs are ideal for serving at parties, game days, or casual gatherings. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve as appetizers, and the spicy mayo dip adds an interactive element that guests will love.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you’re a fan of Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip, then you’ll likely enjoy these other delicious recipes that feature similar ingredients, flavors, and cooking methods:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What makes Korean BBQ spicy?

Korean BBQ is known for its bold and spicy flavors, often attributed to the use of gochujang, a Korean chili paste made from fermented soybeans, rice, and chili peppers. This paste adds both heat and umami to the BBQ sauce. Additionally, fresh ginger and garlic are commonly used in Korean BBQ recipes, which enhance the spiciness and aromatic profile. The combination of these ingredients creates a savory, spicy, and slightly sweet taste that is signature to Korean BBQ.

2. What side dishes go with Korean meatballs?

Korean meatballs are rich and flavorful, so pairing them with light and refreshing side dishes is the perfect way to balance the meal. Some great options include:

  • Kimchi: A traditional Korean fermented vegetable dish that offers a tangy, spicy contrast to the richness of meatballs.

  • Steamed Rice or Fried Rice: A simple, comforting base that absorbs the bold flavors of the Korean BBQ glaze.

  • Pickled Vegetables: Pickled radishes, cucumbers, or carrots add a refreshing crunch and tangy flavor to the meal.

  • Sautéed Vegetables: Vegetables like spinach, bok choy, or zucchini sautéed with garlic and sesame oil complement the meatballs well.

  • Korean Pancakes (Jeon): Savory pancakes made from flour, eggs, and vegetables, offering a crispy texture that pairs well with Korean meatballs.

3. How do you eat Korean BBQ sauce?

Korean BBQ sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways. Here’s how you can enjoy it:

  • Dipping Sauce: It’s great for dipping grilled meats, such as Korean BBQ meatballs, short ribs, or chicken skewers. Just drizzle the sauce over the cooked meat or dip each bite directly into the sauce for added flavor.

  • Glaze for Grilled Meats: Brush the sauce on your meats during grilling to create a flavorful glaze that caramelizes as it cooks.

  • As a Marinade: Marinate meats or tofu in the Korean BBQ sauce for several hours or overnight to infuse them with rich, spicy, and savory flavors before cooking.

  • Drizzle over Rice or Noodles: You can also drizzle Korean BBQ sauce over steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fries to elevate the dish.

4. What meat is good in Korean BBQ sauce?

Korean BBQ sauce pairs wonderfully with various types of meat. Some of the best options include:

  • Beef: Beef is the most popular choice for Korean BBQ. Cuts like bulgogi (thinly sliced beef) and short ribs (galbi) are marinated in Korean BBQ sauce for a flavorful and tender result.

  • Pork: Pork, especially pork belly or shoulder, absorbs the sauce beautifully and becomes tender when grilled. Pork bulgogi is another popular dish that uses the BBQ sauce.

  • Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent choice as they stay juicy and tender when marinated in Korean BBQ sauce.

  • Lamb: Lamb chops or leg of lamb can also be marinated in Korean BBQ sauce, offering a bold, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the sauce’s richness.

  • Tofu: For a vegetarian option, tofu can be marinated in the BBQ sauce and grilled or pan-fried for a savory, spicy kick.

Each of these meats (or tofu) becomes more flavorful when marinated in Korean BBQ sauce, creating a delicious combination of heat, sweetness, and savory notes.

Conclusion

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a delightful fusion dish that brings together bold Korean flavors with the comfort of homemade meatballs. The combination of savory, sweet, and spicy elements makes this dish unforgettable. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just a fun weeknight meal, these meatballs are sure to impress. With a bit of time and the right ingredients, you can easily recreate this flavorful dish in your own kitchen.

Enjoy the bold flavors, the juicy meatballs, and the creamy, spicy dip. Happy cooking!

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Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip: A Delicious Recipe

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip: A Delicious Recipe


  • Author: MixMealMagic
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 24 meatballs (serves 4-6 people) 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a mouthwatering treat that perfectly balances savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. Tender beef meatballs are coated in a rich Korean BBQ glaze and paired with a creamy, zesty, spicy mayo dip, making them ideal for a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish. Perfect for any gathering, these meatballs will leave everyone craving more!


Ingredients

Scale

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 Korean BBQ 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

For Garnish:

  • Sesame seeds

  • Chopped green onions


Instructions

  • Make Meatballs:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, salt, pepper, and green onions. Mix until smooth. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.

  • Bake Meatballs:
    Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Remove from the oven and set aside.

  • Prepare Glaze:
    In a small saucepan, whisk together soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Mix cornstarch with water and add to the sauce to thicken. Stir for 2-3 minutes until the glaze has thickened.

  • Make Spicy Mayo Dip:
    In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, gochujang, lime juice, honey, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and creamy.

  • Serve:
    Toss the baked meatballs in the Korean BBQ glaze until well-coated. Serve the meatballs with the spicy mayo dip on the side. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flair.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, substitute mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative.

  • If you’re looking for spicy meatballs, add extra gochujang or red pepper flakes to the glaze or dip.

  • To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure the gochujang is gluten-free.

  • These Korean BBQ meatballs are great for meal prep! Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 meatballs (approx.)
  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip, Korean meatballs, spicy mayo dip, Korean BBQ recipe, beef meatballs, gochujang meatballs, Korean appetizer, easy meatball recipe, BBQ meatballs, spicy dipping sauce.

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