How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

If you’re craving something packed with bold, savory flavors and a delightful kick, Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip will quickly become your new favorite. These juicy, tender meatballs are infused with classic Korean BBQ ingredients, giving them a deep, irresistible taste, while the creamy spicy mayo adds the perfect balance of heat and coolness. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe combines rich textures and vibrant flavors in each bite that you won’t want to miss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: Simple steps and accessible ingredients make this a hassle-free cooking experience for all skill levels.
• Perfect party appetizer: Bite-sized and packed with flavor, these meatballs are crowd-pleasers that everyone will reach for.
• Balanced flavors: The sweet and smoky Korean BBQ seasoning contrasts beautifully with the creamy, spicy mayo dip.
• Versatile dish: Great for weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or even lunchboxes, making it a flexible meal option.
• Customizable heat level: You control the spice in the mayo dip, so it fits your personal taste exactly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip recipe uses straightforward ingredients that come together to create a dish rich in flavor, color, and texture. Each element plays a key role, from tender ground meat to vibrant Korean spices and creamy mayo with a spicy twist.

• Ground beef or pork: Choose your preferred blend for juicy, flavorful meatballs.
• Gochujang paste: This fermented Korean chili paste adds depth and subtle heat.
• Soy sauce: Offers salty umami that brings the flavors together perfectly.
• Minced garlic and ginger: Fundamental aromatics that boost the savory notes.
• Brown sugar or honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spice.
• Green onions: For freshness and a slight crunch.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keeps them tender.
• Egg: Acts as a binder, ensuring the meatballs hold together nicely.
• Mayonnaise: The base for the spicy mayo dip, providing creaminess.
• Sriracha or chili sauce: Added to mayo for that spicy kick.
• Sesame seeds: Optional garnish for a nutty finish and visual appeal.

Variations for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Feel free to customize this recipe to match your taste or dietary preferences—whether you’re looking for something lighter or crave additional layers of flavor, these variations make it easy to adapt.

• Swap the meat: Use ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat alternatives to suit your diet.
• Make it gluten-free: Replace panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
• Extra veggies: Add finely chopped mushrooms or grated carrots into the meat mixture for added moisture and nutrition.
• Adjust the heat: Mix more or less sriracha into the mayo dip to control how spicy it gets.
• Herb infusion: Incorporate chopped cilantro or basil for a fresh twist on the classic flavors.

How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat with gochujang, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, brown sugar, green onions, panko breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix everything gently but thoroughly to ensure the flavors blend well without overworking the meat.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Use your hands to roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs—about one to one and a half inches in diameter works best for even cooking and perfect bite-sized portions.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally until brown on all sides and fully cooked inside, about 10-12 minutes total.

Step 4: Make the Spicy Mayo Dip

While the meatballs cook, mix mayonnaise with sriracha (or your favorite chili sauce), adjusting the amount until you reach your desired level of heat. Keep it chilled until ready to serve.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Plate the meatballs with a generous dollop of spicy mayo, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top, and add extra chopped green onions for a fresh finish.

Pro Tips for Making Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

• Don’t overmix: Mixing the meatball ingredients just enough keeps the meat tender and juicy, avoiding toughness.
• Use a kitchen scale: For uniform meatballs, a scale helps ensure even cooking and consistent size.
• Toasting sesame seeds: Lightly toast sesame seeds in a dry pan for extra flavor and crunch.
• Make the dip ahead: Prepare the spicy mayo in advance to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
• Baking option: For a lighter version, bake the meatballs at 400°F for 15-20 minutes instead of frying.

How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Garnishes

Top the meatballs with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper to enhance both the appearance and taste.

Side Dishes

Pair these meatballs with steamed jasmine rice, crunchy cucumber salad, or crunchy kimchi to balance the rich flavors beautifully while adding texture contrasts.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these meatballs on skewers for easy finger food at parties, alongside lettuce leaves to wrap for fresh mini bites, or atop a bed of noodles dressed in sesame oil for a hearty meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

Place cooked and cooled meatballs on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag; they will last for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat meatballs gently in the oven or microwave, covering loosely to prevent drying out. Warm the mayo dip separately and stir before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute ground meat with plant-based alternatives or use mashed beans and vegetables combined with gluten-free breadcrumbs to create a vegetarian-friendly version.

How spicy is the Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip?

The heat level depends on how much sriracha you add to the mayo; you can easily adjust it from mild to extra spicy according to your preference.

What can I use instead of gochujang?

If gochujang is unavailable, you can mix miso paste with chili flakes and a bit of honey to mimic its unique sweet and spicy umami flavor.

Can these meatballs be baked instead of fried?

Absolutely! Baking at 400°F for 15-20 minutes provides a healthier alternative that still results in juicy and flavorful meatballs.

Is it possible to prepare the meatballs in advance?

Yes, you can form the meatballs ahead of time and store them uncooked in the fridge overnight or freeze them raw for up to a month before cooking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip—each bite offers a perfect harmony of savory, sweet, and spicy that’s both cozy and exciting. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen for casual dinners or festive gatherings. Your taste buds will thank you!

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