If you’re craving a dish that brings bold flavors and comforting textures together, look no further than the Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe. These meatballs are juicy, packed with savory notes from soy sauce and garlic, and elevated by a creamy, spicy mayo that adds just the right amount of kick. Perfect as a party appetizer or a satisfying snack, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each plays a unique role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color, from the tender ground beef to the fresh parsley and the spicy mayo that brings it all together.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that keeps the meatballs juicy and flavorful.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs while keeping them tender.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a subtle nutty depth and richness.
- 1 egg: Essential for holding the mixture together.
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Brings sweetness and moisture to the meatballs.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Packs in aromatic flavor that’s crucial to Korean BBQ notes.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Freshness and color to brighten the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy undertone that complements the beef.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: A subtle peppery heat for balance.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Infuses that iconic umami and salty depth.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Adds a toasted, nutty aroma that’s signature in Korean cooking.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (for the dip): Base for the creamy spicy mayo that pairs so well.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (for the dip): Brings heat and a tangy punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce (for the dip): Adds umami to the mayo dip too.
- 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil (for the dip): Keeps the dip fragrant and balanced.
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder (for the dip): Adds a soft garlic flavor for the perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
Step 1: Combine and Form the Meatballs
Start by gathering all your fresh ingredients and putting them in a large bowl. Mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and sesame oil thoroughly. This combination is where all the flavors begin to fuse beautifully. Once mixed, shape the mixture into small, even meatballs – aim for bite-size so they cook evenly and are perfect for dipping.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs to Perfection
Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook them, turning occasionally, until they’re nicely browned on all sides and cooked through. This step locks in the juices and creates a flavorful crust that is simply irresistible. When done, remove the meatballs and let them rest briefly to keep them tender.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Spicy Mayo Dip
While the meatballs are resting, whip up the star accompaniment: the spicy mayo dip. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder until smooth and creamy. This dipping sauce is the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and umami – exactly what those Korean BBQ meatballs crave.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your meatballs on a platter alongside a bowl of the spicy mayo dip. The combination promises a fun, flavorful bite that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether it’s a casual snack or part of a larger meal, these meatballs bring joy to the table.
How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or finely chopped green onions over the meatballs just before serving. These simple garnishes add a lovely crunch, extra aroma, and a burst of fresh color that makes the dish feel even more festive and inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair the meatballs with a crisp cabbage slaw or a bowl of steamed jasmine rice. The fresh crunch of the slaw balances the richness of the meatballs, while the rice helps soak up all the wonderful spicy mayo sauce for a complete, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe in mini lettuce cups or alongside kimchi pancakes for an authentic Korean street-food vibe. Alternatively, skewer the meatballs on toothpicks to turn them into a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the spicy mayo dip in a separate container to preserve its freshness and texture.
Freezing
These meatballs freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to three months and can be reheated directly from frozen for a quick meal solution.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the meatballs gently in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as the texture can become rubbery. The spicy mayo dip is best served fresh, so make a small batch when ready to serve.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can be a lighter alternative and still work well with the Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe. Just be careful not to overcook since these meats are leaner and can dry out more easily.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
While this recipe is designed around ground beef, you can experiment with plant-based ground “meat” or finely chopped mushrooms and lentils as a meat substitute. The key is to maintain a good balance of moisture and binding ingredients for the right texture.
How spicy is the spicy mayo dip?
The heat level is moderate and very adjustable. If you prefer something milder, reduce the sriracha or swap it for a milder chili sauce. For those who love it hotter, add a bit more sriracha or a dash of chili flakes.
Can these meatballs be baked instead of pan-fried?
Yes, they can! Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and browned. Baking is a great hands-off method and will still yield delicious results.
What can I serve with Korean BBQ Meatballs for a full meal?
Think steamed rice, sautéed vegetables like bok choy or snap peas, and maybe a crisp cucumber salad. These sides complement the rich, spicy flavors of the meatballs perfectly to round out your meal.
Final Thoughts
This Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe is a brilliant way to bring vibrant Korean flavors into your home kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum taste. It’s fun to make, irresistible to eat, and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to get a bite. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a regular request at your dinner table.
Print
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 3 to 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Korean-American
Description
These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a flavorful appetizer perfect for game days or casual gatherings. Ground beef meatballs are seasoned with savory Korean-inspired ingredients and pan-fried to a golden brown. Served alongside a creamy and spicy mayo dip with a kick of sriracha, they offer a perfect balance of heat and umami in every bite.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Spicy Mayo Dip
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients. Once combined, form the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they are spaced out evenly. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meatballs are browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Spicy Mayo Dip: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder until smooth and well combined. Adjust spice level to taste if desired.
- Serve: Plate the cooked Korean BBQ meatballs alongside the spicy mayo dip. Enjoy warm as an appetizer or snack.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- You can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
- Adjust sriracha quantity in the dip to control the spice level.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking meatballs to ensure even browning.
- These meatballs can be baked at 400°F for 15-18 minutes as an alternative cooking method.
