Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are the perfect blend of bold flavors and delightful spice. Ideal for any occasion—from parties and game days to family dinners—these meatballs are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The combination of a sweet and savory glaze with a creamy, spicy dip makes them stand out as an unforgettable appetizer.

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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
• Garnish
• How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
• Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
• Step 2: Form the Meatballs
• Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
• Baking Method:
• Air Fryer Method:
• Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
• Step 5: Coat the Meatballs
• Step 6: Make the Spicy Mayo Dip
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
• As an Appetizer
• In a Bowl
• With Lettuce Wraps
• On Skewers
• As Part of a Platter
• 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?
• How spicy are these Korean BBQ Meatballs?
• Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
• What should I serve with Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a rich mix of savory and sweet, enhanced by the spice of gochujang.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, suitable for dinner parties or casual gatherings.
• Quick Preparation: With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip these up in no time.
• Easy Cooking Methods: Bake or air fry—choose whichever method suits your kitchen setup best.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These meatballs are sure to impress friends and family with their unique Korean flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Korean BBQ meatballs, make sure you have the right tools on hand for smooth cooking.

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 bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending sauces smoothly, ensuring that your spicy mayo dip is lump-free.
• Baking sheet or air fryer basket: Choose based on your cooking method. Both options allow even cooking for tender meatballs.

Ingredients

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

Garnish

• 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 the following ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (or mix)
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp gochujang
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp sesame oil
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 green onions, finely chopped

Mix gently until just combined.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

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

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Choose your preferred 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.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine:
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

Simmer until combined. Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken.

Step 5: Coat the Meatballs

Toss cooked meatballs in the warm glaze until fully coated.

Step 6: Make the Spicy Mayo Dip

In a small bowl, whisk together:
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp gochujang
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp honey
½ tsp garlic powder

Whisk until smooth.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer glazed meatballs to a plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve alongside spicy mayo dip.

Enjoy your flavorful journey with these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip!

How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip make a delightful dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these flavorful meatballs can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the meatballs on toothpicks for easy snacking.
• Pair them with fresh vegetable sticks for a crunchy contrast.

In a Bowl

• Create a Korean-style rice bowl by adding cooked rice and vegetables.
• Drizzle extra spicy mayo dip on top for added flavor.

With Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the meatballs along with some pickled veggies.
• This makes for a refreshing and healthy bite.

On Skewers

• Thread the meatballs onto skewers for fun finger food at parties.
• Add cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and taste.

As Part of a Platter

• Arrange the meatballs on a sharing platter with dipping sauces and garnishes.
• Include sides like kimchi or pickled radishes for an authentic touch.

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How to Perfect Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Achieving the ideal Korean BBQ Meatballs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is a hit every time you make it.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select high-quality ground beef or pork for juicier meatballs.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients just enough to combine them; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of gochujang according to your heat preference while keeping it balanced with sweetness.
• Let Them Rest: Allow the cooked meatballs to rest briefly before serving to lock in flavors and juices.
• Experiment with Glaze: Feel free to add different ingredients like sesame seeds or chili flakes into your glaze for unique flavors.
• Chill Before Baking: Refrigerate shaped meatballs for about 30 minutes before cooking; this helps them hold their shape better.

Best Side Dishes for Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Pairing side dishes with your Korean BBQ Meatballs can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement the flavors beautifully.

1. Steamed Rice: A classic side that balances the bold flavors of the meatballs, making each bite satisfying.
2. Kimchi: The tangy and spicy fermented cabbage adds an excellent contrast and enhances the overall experience.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with thinly sliced cucumbers, sesame oil, and rice vinegar provides crunch and acidity.
4. Pickled Radishes: These sweet and tangy pickles add brightness and help cleanse the palate between bites.
5. Asian Slaw: A mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing offers crunchiness and flavor harmony.
6. Noodle Salad: Cold noodle salads tossed in sesame sauce add an Asian flair that pairs wonderfully with meatballs.
7. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like bell peppers or zucchini enhance the meal’s presentation while adding health benefits.
8. Miso Soup: A warm, comforting soup that complements the savory aspects of your dish while providing umami richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your preparation of Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip much smoother and more enjoyable.

• Overmixing the meat mixture: This can lead to tough meatballs. Mix gently until just combined for tender results.
• Skipping the glaze: Not using the glaze means missing out on a burst of flavor. Always toss your cooked meatballs in the warm glaze before serving.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can alter the taste and texture. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking them too long may dry out the meatballs. Keep an eye on them while baking or air frying.
• Forgetting to prepare the dip: The spicy mayo is essential for balance. Take a moment to whisk it up while the meatballs cook.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, about 30 seconds at a time, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it may result in slightly different flavors.

How spicy are these Korean BBQ Meatballs?

The spice level comes from gochujang. You can adjust the amount according to your heat preference or substitute with less spicy options.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking.

What should I serve with Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip?

These meatballs pair well with rice, noodles, or as part of an appetizer spread. Feel free to get creative!

Final Thoughts

These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. They make an excellent appetizer or main dish and are easy to customize based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!