Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. These juicy meatballs are glazed with a sticky Korean BBQ sauce and paired with a creamy, fiery dipping sauce. Perfect as appetizers, party food, or a main dish, they’ll be a hit at any gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold, sweet, and spicy flavors that are addictive.
• Juicy meatballs paired with a creamy and zesty dip.
• Easy to make with simple ingredients.
• Versatile—serve as appetizers, in sliders, or over rice.
• A crowd-pleaser for parties or family dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatballs:

• Ground beef or pork (or a mix)
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Garlic, minced
• Green onion, finely chopped
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Ginger, grated
• Black pepper

For the Korean BBQ Sauce:

• Soy sauce
• Gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
• Honey or brown sugar
• Rice vinegar
• Garlic, minced
• Sesame oil
• Optional: Sesame seeds for garnish

For the Spicy Mayo Dip:

• Mayonnaise
• Sriracha or Gochujang
• Lime juice
• Optional: A pinch of sugar

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease lightly.
2. Make the Meatballs:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, green onion, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
   • Roll the mixture into bite-sized meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake:
   • Bake the meatballs for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
4. Prepare the BBQ Sauce:
   • While the meatballs are baking, combine soy sauce, gochujang, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and sesame oil in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Glaze the Meatballs:
   • Toss the baked meatballs in the BBQ sauce until fully coated. Return them to the oven for 2-3 minutes for the glaze to set, if desired.
6. Make the Spicy Mayo Dip:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha or gochujang, lime juice, and a pinch of sugar. Adjust spice levels to taste.
7. Serve:
   • Arrange the glazed meatballs on a platter, garnished with sesame seeds and additional green onion. Serve with the spicy mayo dip on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 (as appetizers)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add more gochujang or a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat or tofu in place of the meat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Sweet and Tangy: Add a splash of pineapple juice to the BBQ sauce for a tropical twist.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stuff each meatball with a small cube of mozzarella for a gooey center.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating and glazing.
• Reheating: Warm the meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or on the stovetop with additional BBQ sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-made meatballs?

Yes, pre-made meatballs can save time. Simply bake them and toss with the Korean BBQ sauce.

2. Is gochujang necessary?

Gochujang is key for authentic Korean flavor, but you can substitute with a mix of red chili paste and a bit of sugar.

3. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and refrigerate the raw meatballs for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level is mild to moderate but can be adjusted by adding more or less gochujang or sriracha.

5. What can I serve with these meatballs?

Serve with rice, steamed vegetables, or inside slider buns for a complete meal.

6. Can I pan-fry the meatballs instead of baking?

Yes, cook them in a skillet with a bit of oil over medium heat until browned and fully cooked.

7. What’s the best type of meat for this recipe?

A mix of ground pork and beef gives the juiciest texture, but you can use either on its own.

8. Can I make the sauce less sweet?

Reduce the honey or brown sugar for a less sweet BBQ sauce.

9. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for the dip?

Yes, Greek yogurt works well as a lighter alternative to mayonnaise.

10. How do I keep the meatballs moist?

Avoid overmixing the meat mixture and don’t overbake to ensure juicy meatballs.

Conclusion

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a bold and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving them at a party or as part of a meal, these meatballs deliver sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in every bite. Try this recipe today for a crowd-pleasing treat that’s both easy and delicious!

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