Name: Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground chicken; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 green onions, finely chopped; ¼ cup soy sauce (for dipping sauce); 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar; 1 tablespoon gochujang (for dipping sauce); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for dipping sauce); 1 teaspoon garlic, minced (for dipping sauce); 1 teaspoon ginger, minced (for dipping sauce); 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken the sauce); ½ cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon gochujang (for spicy mayo); 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon honey (for spicy mayo); ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Sesame seeds (for garnish); Chopped green onions (for garnish)

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why make this recipe

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This dish is perfect for beginners looking to try something new and exciting. The combination of beef or chicken with savory sauces and spices creates meatballs that are juicy and delicious. The spicy mayo dip adds an extra kick and pairs wonderfully with the meatballs. Plus, it’s a simple recipe that doesn’t require a lot of time or complicated techniques!

how to make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Ingredients:

1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground chicken
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, finely chopped
¼ cup soy sauce (for dipping sauce)
2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
1 tablespoon gochujang (for dipping sauce)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil (for dipping sauce)
1 teaspoon garlic, minced (for dipping sauce)
1 teaspoon ginger, minced (for dipping sauce)
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken the sauce)
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon gochujang (for spicy mayo)
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon honey (for spicy mayo)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Directions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or chicken), panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and chopped green onions.
Gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs dense.
Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Place the meatballs on a plate or baking sheet while you heat the cooking surface.
You can cook the meatballs in three different ways, depending on your preference (e.g., baking, frying, or grilling).

how to serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Serve these flavorful meatballs hot and alongside the spicy mayo dip. You can place the meatballs on a platter and drizzle some of the dip on top or put it in a bowl for dipping. They’re great as appetizers, snacks, or a main meal. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation.

how to store Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

To store the meatballs, let them cool completely first. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store them longer, consider freezing the unbaked meatballs. You can freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To use, just cook them straight from the freezer!

tips to make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized meatballs.
If you prefer extra heat, add more gochujang to the dipping sauce.
Bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until fully cooked for a healthier option.

variation

You can substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option. Additionally, feel free to customize the dipping sauce by adding more spices like sriracha or using different types of vinegar.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works great for this recipe! It will give a leaner version of the meatballs.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
You can check if the meatballs are done by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and either refrigerate them before cooking or freeze them for later use. Just make sure to cook them within a few days of making them if stored in the fridge.