If you are craving something bursting with bold, savory flavor and a little bit of a spicy kick, look no further than this Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe. These tender meatballs marry the rich umami of soy and sesame with a delicate herbaceous touch, while the creamy, fiery mayo dip elevates every bite. It’s the perfect appetizer or party snack that feels special yet comes together quickly with ingredients you likely have on hand. Once you make these, they’ll instantly become a go-to dish for impressing friends or spicing up family dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet flavorful ingredients is the secret to these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe. Each component plays an essential role: the mix of ground beef and Parmesan ensures juiciness and richness, while the herbs and seasonings deliver authentic depth. The spicy mayo dip rounds everything out with a creamy, tangy punch that perfectly complements the meatballs.
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose a mix with some fat for juicy, tender meatballs.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs without making them dense.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a subtle nutty flavor enhancing the beef.
- 1 egg: Acts as your binder for a cohesive texture.
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Provides just the right amount of sweetness and moisture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses savory aroma and depth.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds warm, earthy undertones.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a mild, complementary heat.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Brings in the signature umami bite characteristic of Korean BBQ.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Adds a toasty, nutty aroma that’s essential to the flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: The rich base for the spicy mayo dip, balancing heat and creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha: Injects vibrant, spicy flair.
- 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce: Depth and subtle saltiness in the dip.
- 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil: A little extra nuttiness to tie the dip together.
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts that irresistible garlic undertone.
How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatballs
Begin by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, black pepper, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a large bowl. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything thoroughly until evenly combined. The mixture should be moist yet hold together well. Shape into small, bite-sized meatballs for the perfect balance of exterior sear and juicy center.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs, making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook them until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust all over; this usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes. Turning them gently will help create an even sear while locking in the flavors. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate and keep warm.
Step 3: Prepare the Spicy Mayo Dip
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder until smooth and well blended. This creamy, spicy mayo dip is incredibly enticing and perfectly complements the savory meatballs with its tangy heat and rich texture.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the meatballs on a serving platter or individual plates alongside a bowl of the spicy mayo dip. This is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under 40 minutes from start to finish. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to have everyone asking for seconds!
How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes really take your Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe to the next level. Consider sprinkling toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch and a pop of visual interest. Chopped scallions or fresh cilantro add a vibrant green freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich meatballs and creamy dip.
Side Dishes
Pair these meatballs with simple yet complementary sides. Steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice bowls soak up the flavorful dip. Crisp cucumber or radish slices add refreshing crunch, while a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness. For something heartier, roasted vegetables or sweet potato fries make fantastic accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress at your next gathering? Serve the Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe in mini lettuce cups for a fun, handheld option. Alternatively, thread meatballs onto skewers for easy dipping and sharing at parties. Even stacking them over rice bowls with a drizzle of the spicy mayo makes for a stunning presentation that feels both casual and special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy a quick snack or meal later in the week without fuss.
Freezing
This Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe freezes beautifully. Arrange cooked meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months, a real lifesaver for busy days or unexpected guests.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated meatballs gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the best texture. Serve again with freshly whisked spicy mayo dip for maximum flavor impact.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can be used for a leaner version. Just be sure to handle gently and perhaps add a little extra oil or moisture to keep the meatballs from drying out.
Is the Spicy Mayo Dip very spicy?
The dip has a pleasant kick from the sriracha but is well balanced by the creamy mayonnaise. You can always adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your preferred spice level.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying?
Yes, baking is a great option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the meatballs on a parchment-lined sheet for about 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and nicely browned.
What’s a good substitute for mayonnaise in the dip?
If you want to avoid mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream can work as alternatives, giving a tangy creaminess, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I prepare the meatballs mixture ahead of time?
Definitely. You can mix the ingredients and form the meatballs a few hours ahead or even the night before. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to cook to enhance the flavors even more.
Final Thoughts
There is just something so satisfying about these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe that makes them a must-try for any food lover. Easy to make, packed with bold flavors, and utterly comforting, these meatballs will quickly become a favorite crowd-pleaser in your home. So grab your ingredients and enjoy the delicious journey of creating a dish everyone will rave about!
Print
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 3-4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
These Korean BBQ Meatballs are a flavorful twist on a classic favorite, combining ground beef with Parmesan, fresh herbs, and traditional Korean seasoning like soy sauce and sesame oil. Paired with a spicy mayo dip infused with sriracha and garlic, they make a perfect appetizer or party snack that’s both easy to prepare and delicious.
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 everything thoroughly until well combined. Then, shape the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 12-15 minutes. Once done, 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 blended.
- Serve: Arrange the cooked meatballs on a serving platter alongside the spicy mayo dip. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha in the dip to control the heat level according to your preference.
- To make ahead, you can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them before cooking. Cook just before serving for best flavor.
- Use fresh parsley for a brighter flavor or substitute with cilantro if desired.
- If you prefer, bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes as an alternative to skillet cooking.
