Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen
Delight in these savory Korean BBQ meatballs paired with a creamy, spicy mayo dip. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these meatballs are bursting with flavor and sure to impress your guests.
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are the perfect blend of flavor and texture. These meatballs are inspired by traditional Korean cuisine, featuring a sweet and savory glaze that pairs beautifully with the creamy heat of the spicy mayo. Whether you're hosting a party or simply craving something delicious, these meatballs are a crowd-pleaser!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory meatballs with a sweet and spicy glaze
- Creamy mayo dip adds a delightful kick
- Great for entertaining or weeknight dinners
A Flavorful Fusion
Korean BBQ meatballs offer a delightful blend of flavors, combining the rich and savory notes of traditional Korean barbecue with the comforting familiarity of meatballs. The use of ingredients like gochujang and sesame oil elevates these meatballs, making them a perfect dish for those looking to explore global cuisine. Whether you’re a fan of Korean food or just curious to try something new, these meatballs are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
The balance of sweet and spicy in the glaze enhances the meatballs, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. The glossy finish from the glaze makes these meatballs a standout option for any gathering, ensuring they will be a hit among guests. Perfectly bite-sized, they are easy to enjoy, making them a great choice for appetizers or party platters.
Perfect Pairing with Spicy Mayo Dip
What elevates these Korean BBQ meatballs even further is the creamy spicy mayo dip that accompanies them. This dip is not just a sauce; it’s an experience that complements the savory meatballs beautifully. The combination of mayonnaise and gochujang creates a rich, velvety texture with just the right amount of heat, making every bite a burst of flavor.
This spicy mayo dip is versatile and can be used beyond just serving with meatballs. It works well as a dressing for salads, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for fresh vegetables. Its creamy texture paired with the spiciness makes it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring your guests will be coming back for more.
Versatile and Easy to Make
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. For instance, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even use plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly dish. This adaptability makes Korean BBQ meatballs suitable for a variety of occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
Moreover, the preparation is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can create a flavorful dish that looks and tastes impressive. These meatballs can also be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making them a convenient option for meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Glaze
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
For the Spicy Mayo Dip
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons gochujang
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Combine all ingredients for the meatballs in a bowl and mix until well combined.
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into small meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, gochujang, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat.
Glaze the Meatballs
Once the meatballs are cooked, toss them in the glaze until well coated.
Prepare the Spicy Mayo Dip
In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, gochujang, lemon juice, and sesame oil until smooth.
Serve
Serve the glazed meatballs warm with the spicy mayo dip on the side.
Enjoy your flavorful Korean BBQ meatballs!
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
To ensure your meatballs are tender and juicy, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed to maintain a light texture. Additionally, using breadcrumbs helps absorb moisture, keeping the meatballs soft. If you want a bit of crunch, consider adding finely chopped vegetables or nuts for added texture and flavor.
Baking the meatballs is a healthier alternative to frying, allowing for even cooking without excess grease. Make sure to space them evenly on the baking sheet to promote uniform cooking. You can also try broiling them for the last few minutes to achieve a caramelized finish that enhances the overall flavor.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing them properly will help maintain their flavor and texture. Allow the meatballs to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. When freezing, consider separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating is simple; just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just be sure to cover them to avoid drying out. Pair them with fresh spicy mayo dip for a quick and satisfying meal anytime!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well and can be a healthier alternative.
→ Is gochujang necessary for the recipe?
Yes, gochujang adds authentic Korean flavor, but you can substitute with another chili paste if necessary.
→ Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the meatballs ahead of time and reheat them before serving.
→ What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Delight in these savory Korean BBQ meatballs paired with a creamy, spicy mayo dip. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these meatballs are bursting with flavor and sure to impress your guests.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Cravings Kitchen
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Glaze
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
For the Spicy Mayo Dip
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons gochujang
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into small meatballs.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, gochujang, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat.
Once the meatballs are cooked, toss them in the glaze until well coated.
In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, gochujang, lemon juice, and sesame oil until smooth.
Serve the glazed meatballs warm with the spicy mayo dip on the side.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 18g