Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Highlighted under: World Recipes
Discover the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with these savory BBQ meatballs, perfectly complemented by a spicy mayo dip.
Korean BBQ Meatballs are a delightful fusion of flavors that bring the essence of Korean street food into your home. Juicy, tender meatballs are infused with traditional Korean spices and served with a zesty spicy mayo dip that elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory and sweet flavor combination that tantalizes your taste buds
- Juicy meatballs that are easy to make and full of flavor
- Spicy mayo dip adds the perfect kick to this delicious dish
The Essence of Korean BBQ
Korean BBQ is renowned for its vibrant flavors and unique cooking techniques. The combination of sweet, savory, and spicy elements creates a dining experience that is both exciting and satisfying. These Korean BBQ meatballs embody that essence, offering a bite-sized version of traditional barbecue flavors. The use of gochujang and sesame oil infuses the meatballs with a distinct Korean flair, making them a delightful addition to any meal or gathering.
In Korea, BBQ is not just food; it’s a cultural experience. Meals are often shared among family and friends, fostering connection and community. By making these meatballs, you are not only enjoying delicious food but also embracing a part of Korean culture that values togetherness. Serve these meatballs at your next gathering, and you’ll create a memorable experience for your guests.
Healthier Comfort Food
These Korean BBQ meatballs are a healthier take on classic comfort food. Made with lean ground beef and packed with flavorful ingredients, they provide a satisfying meal without the guilt. The addition of green onions and garlic not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional benefits. Green onions are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties.
Pairing these meatballs with a spicy mayo dip adds an exciting twist without overwhelming the dish. The creamy texture of the mayonnaise combined with the heat from gochujang creates a perfect balance that keeps you coming back for more. Enjoy them as a main dish, appetizer, or even on a game day platter for a healthier alternative to traditional meatball recipes.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Korean BBQ meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served at various occasions. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a weekend barbecue, or a festive celebration, they are sure to impress your guests. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for appetizers at parties or as a part of a larger buffet spread.
Additionally, they can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer, making them a convenient option for meal prepping. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave, and you have a delicious meal ready in minutes. The spicy mayo dip can also be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together for an even more delightful experience.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
For the Spicy Mayo Dip
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Mix these ingredients well to create delicious meatballs and a zesty dip.
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined.
Form the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1-inch in diameter and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the Meatballs
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
Make the Spicy Mayo Dip
While the meatballs are baking, whisk together mayonnaise, gochujang, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame seeds in a small bowl until smooth.
Serve
Once the meatballs are done, serve them warm with the spicy mayo dip on the side.
Enjoy this delicious dish with friends and family!
Tips for the Best Meatballs
To ensure your meatballs are tender and juicy, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Just combine the ingredients until they are well-blended; this helps maintain a light texture. Additionally, using a cookie scoop can help create uniform meatballs for even cooking. If you prefer a bit of crunch, you can sauté the meatballs in a skillet for a few minutes before baking them in the oven.
Experimenting with different ground meats can also yield delicious results. Try using ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option, or mix in some pork for added flavor. Finally, don’t forget to season your dipping sauce to match your taste preferences; adjusting the amount of gochujang can make the dip milder or spicier, depending on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
These Korean BBQ meatballs can be served in a variety of ways. For a complete meal, pair them with steamed rice or quinoa and a side of sautéed vegetables. This not only balances the rich flavors of the meatballs but also adds a nutritious element to your plate. You can also serve them over a bed of lettuce for a low-carb option, creating a refreshing salad.
If you're feeling adventurous, use these meatballs to make a Korean-inspired sub sandwich. Place them in a hoagie roll with fresh vegetables and drizzle with the spicy mayo dip for an exciting twist on a classic sandwich. This versatile dish is sure to satisfy cravings and impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter option.
→ How can I make the dip less spicy?
You can reduce the amount of gochujang in the dip or mix in a bit more mayonnaise.
→ Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatballs and bake them directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad.
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Discover the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with these savory BBQ meatballs, perfectly complemented by a spicy mayo dip.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: World Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
For the Spicy Mayo Dip
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1-inch in diameter and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
While the meatballs are baking, whisk together mayonnaise, gochujang, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame seeds in a small bowl until smooth.
Once the meatballs are done, serve them warm with the spicy mayo dip on the side.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 410mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 18g