Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes
Deliciously tender meatballs infused with bold Korean BBQ flavors, complemented by a creamy and spicy mayo dip.
These Korean BBQ Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic appetizer. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine, these meatballs are packed with umami and pair perfectly with a spicy mayo dip. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bold flavors with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy
- Juicy meatballs that are easy to make and incredibly satisfying
- The spicy mayo dip adds an extra kick that elevates the dish
A Taste of Korea
Korean BBQ is famous for its rich flavors and unique combinations, and these meatballs are no exception. Infused with classic ingredients like soy sauce and sesame oil, they bring a taste of Korea right to your dining table. The balance of savory and sweet is what makes Korean cuisine so irresistible, and these meatballs capture that essence perfectly.
When you bite into these tender meatballs, you're not just tasting the ingredients; you're experiencing a delightful culinary journey. The use of panko breadcrumbs ensures a light, airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the heartiness of the ground beef. This dish is not only about taste but also about texture, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or looking for a game day snack, Korean BBQ meatballs are a versatile choice. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for appetizers, while their bold flavors can stand alone as the main dish. Pair them with some rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Additionally, these meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored for later use. They freeze well, making them a great option for meal prep. Just cook a batch over the weekend, and you'll have a delicious, easy-to-reheat meal ready for busy weeknights.
Spicing It Up with the Dip
The spicy mayo dip is the perfect accompaniment to these meatballs, enhancing their flavor profile with a creamy and zesty kick. A simple blend of mayonnaise, Sriracha, lime juice, and garlic powder, this dip is not only easy to make but can also be adjusted to suit your spice tolerance. For those who enjoy heat, feel free to add more Sriracha or even a dash of chili oil.
This dip can also be used for other dishes, making it a multi-purpose condiment. Try it with grilled vegetables, shrimp, or even as a spread for sandwiches. Its versatility ensures that it won’t just be a one-time addition to your meal.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg
For the Spicy Mayo Dip
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
- 1 tsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Mix all ingredients thoroughly before forming the meatballs.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, black pepper, and egg. Mix until well combined.
Form the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the Meatballs
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
Prepare the Spicy Mayo Dip
While the meatballs are baking, whisk together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, lime juice, and garlic powder in a small bowl until smooth.
Serve
Serve the meatballs hot with the spicy mayo dip on the side.
Enjoy your flavorful Korean BBQ meatballs!
Cooking Tips for Success
To ensure your meatballs are perfectly cooked, consider using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) for beef. This method guarantees that the meatballs are thoroughly cooked while remaining juicy on the inside.
When shaping the meatballs, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. This small trick can make the process much cleaner and easier. Additionally, if you find the mixture too wet, a little extra panko can help achieve the right consistency.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to three months.
To reheat, simply place the meatballs on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quick meal, but be cautious not to overcook and dry them out.
Serving Suggestions
These Korean BBQ meatballs are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate the meal by serving them with jasmine rice or a side of kimchi. The fresh, tangy flavors of kimchi complement the savory meatballs beautifully, creating a well-rounded meal.
For a lighter option, consider serving the meatballs over a bed of leafy greens or as part of a rice bowl with assorted vegetables. This adds freshness and color, making your dish not only tasty but visually appealing as well.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option.
→ How can I make the dip less spicy?
You can reduce the amount of Sriracha or mix in more mayonnaise to tone down the heat.
→ Can I make meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them before baking.
→ What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad.
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Deliciously tender meatballs infused with bold Korean BBQ flavors, complemented by a creamy and spicy mayo dip.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: World Cuisine Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg
For the Spicy Mayo Dip
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
- 1 tsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, black pepper, and egg. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
While the meatballs are baking, whisk together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, lime juice, and garlic powder in a small bowl until smooth.
Serve the meatballs hot with the spicy mayo dip on the side.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g