Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

1. Big Flavor, Little Effort : The Korean BBQ sauce infuses the meatballs with rich umami flavor without hours of prep.
2. Versatile Dish : Serve them as appetizers, sliders, or over rice for a complete meal.
3. Perfect for Parties : These meatballs are bite-sized, crowd-pleasing, and easy to share.
4. Customizable Heat : Adjust the spiciness of the mayo dip to suit your taste—from mild to fiery!
5. Meal Prep Friendly : Make ahead and reheat for quick meals throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 4–6

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef, pork, or turkey (or a mix of beef and pork for extra juiciness)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup green onions , finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp ginger powder (or fresh grated ginger)
• Salt and pepper , to taste

For the Korean BBQ Sauce:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 3 tbsp brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste, optional for heat)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic , minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken the sauce)

For the Spicy Mayo Dip:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1–2 tsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, panko, green onions, garlic, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix, as it can make the meatballs tough.
2. Form the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs (about 1–1.5 inches in diameter). You should get about 20–24 meatballs.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

1. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet or nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 5–7 minutes , turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. Alternatively, bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes , flipping halfway through.

Step 3: Make the Korean BBQ Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, gochujang (if using), sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Glaze the Meatballs

1. Once the meatballs are cooked, toss them in the Korean BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Simmer in the sauce for 1–2 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Make the Spicy Mayo Dip

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the sriracha to your preferred level of spiciness.

Step 6: Serve

1. Arrange the glazed meatballs on a platter and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
2. Serve with the spicy mayo dip on the side for dipping or drizzling.

Why This Recipe Works

• Juicy Meatballs : The combination of breadcrumbs, egg, and aromatics ensures the meatballs stay tender and flavorful.
• Bold Sauce : The Korean BBQ sauce balances sweet, salty, and spicy flavors, creating a sticky, addictive glaze.
• Creamy Dip : The spicy mayo adds a cooling contrast to the bold flavors of the meatballs.

Variations to Try

• Add Veggies : Mix finely chopped mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
• Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Spice It Up : Increase the gochujang in the sauce or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Serve Over Rice : Turn this into a main dish by serving the meatballs over steamed jasmine rice with sautéed veggies.
• Mini Sliders : Sandwich the meatballs in slider buns with a drizzle of spicy mayo for a fun twist.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix : Overmixing the meatball mixture can make them dense—mix just until combined.
• Use Gochujang Wisely : Start with a small amount if you’re sensitive to spice, and adjust to taste.
• Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Serving Suggestions

• Romantic Touch : Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and microgreens for elegance.
• Brunch Staple : Pair with scrambled eggs, roasted potatoes, or avocado toast for a hearty brunch.
• Party Platter : Serve alongside other appetizers like spring rolls, dumplings, or veggie skewers for variety.

Final Thoughts

These Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a celebration of bold, vibrant flavors and textures, offering a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. With their sticky glaze, juicy interior, and creamy dipping sauce, they’re a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.

Your turn! Have you ever made Korean-inspired meatballs before? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below.