If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and irresistibly tender bites, then you’ve come to the right place. This Savory Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe brings together juicy meatballs infused with authentic Korean spices and a creamy, spicy mayo that adds the perfect kick. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a fun twist on a classic favorite, these meatballs are as satisfying as they are simple to make. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to dishes for any occasion!
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you really need to make these meatballs shine are a few straightforward ingredients that pack serious flavor. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s the ground meats lending richness, garlic and ginger adding that aromatic punch, or the Korean BBQ sauce bringing that signature sweet-savory glaze to the table.
- 1 pound Ground Beef: Provides a juicy, rich base for the meatballs; can be swapped with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- 1 pound Ground Pork: Adds moisture and tenderness, balancing the beef perfectly; alternatively, use extra beef or turkey.
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs: Panko is best for an extra light, crunchy texture in the meatballs.
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic gives a punchy, savory depth that’s essential to Korean flavors.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (grated): Adds a bright, slightly spicy zing that livens up the mixture.
- 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce: Brings salty umami goodness; tamari can be used for gluten-free needs.
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way to enhance the nutty, toasty notes.
- 1 cup Korean BBQ Sauce: The star glaze, offering that sweet and savory punch; use your favorite brand or homemade.
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise: Rich and creamy, forming the base of the spicy mayo dip; Greek yogurt works well for a lighter twist.
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha: Controls the heat level of the dipping sauce, so adjust to your spice cravings.
- 2 tablespoons Green Onions (sliced): Fresh garnish that adds a mild oniony crunch and color.
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (optional): Toasted for garnish, they offer subtle texture and visual appeal.
How to Make Savory Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Meatball Mixture
Start by gathering your ground beef, ground pork, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper, but be careful not to overmix—the key to tender meatballs is gentle handling. Combine the ingredients just until everything comes together into a sticky mixture.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Now, roll the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs. This size is perfect for even cooking and makes them easy to enjoy as finger food or paired with a fork. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet so they won’t stick or lose their juicy goodness.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Baking the meatballs allows them to cook through beautifully while getting a nice browned exterior. Bake them for 15 to 18 minutes until they’re cooked through and slightly caramelized on the outside.
Step 4: Glaze with Korean BBQ Sauce
Here’s where the magic happens. Heat a skillet over medium heat and transfer the baked meatballs into it. Drizzle generously with Korean BBQ sauce and gently toss for 1 to 2 minutes until they’re fully coated in that sticky, savory-sweet glaze that’s so addictive.
Step 5: Prepare the Spicy Mayo Dip
While the meatballs soak up all that luscious BBQ flavor, stir together the mayonnaise and sriracha in a small bowl until smooth. This dip adds a creamy, spicy contrast that perfectly complements the flavors and heat level of the meatballs.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer your Korean BBQ Meatballs to a serving platter, and don’t forget to sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the top for a fresh, crunchy finish. Serve them warm with the spicy mayo dip on the side to scoop up every last bite.
How to Serve Savory Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds isn’t just for looks; they bring an unmistakable brightness and subtle crunch that elevates each mouthful. Feel free to add a few thin slices of fresh chili or a squeeze of lime for even more zing.
Side Dishes
These meatballs pair beautifully with simple steamed rice or a crisp Asian-inspired slaw to contrast their richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside stir-fried vegetables or even noodle salad to soak up every bit of that scrumptious BBQ sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at your next gathering? Present your Savory Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe on a wooden board with toothpicks for easy snacking, or stuff them into slider buns topped with pickled veggies for an irresistible mini sandwich. Either way, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (unlikely, but possible!), store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for next-day snacks or quick lunches.
Freezing
The meatballs freeze wonderfully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your meatballs gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, covered, until warmed through to avoid drying them out. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture. Refresh with a drizzle of Korean BBQ sauce if needed.
FAQs
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the soy sauce for tamari and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty Korean BBQ meatballs without worry.
Can I use only ground beef or ground turkey instead of a mix?
Yes, you can customize the meat ratio based on your preference or dietary needs. Just keep in mind that using all turkey might result in slightly leaner and less juicy meatballs, so adding a bit of oil or an extra egg can help retain moisture.
Is it possible to make the spicy mayo dip milder?
Definitely! Reduce the amount of sriracha or substitute it with a milder chili sauce to better suit your spice tolerance. You can even add a bit of honey or extra mayo to mellow the heat further.
Can I prepare these meatballs ahead of time for a party?
Yes, prepping these meatballs a few hours ahead or even the day before works great. Just bake them, then store refrigerated, and glaze them with the Korean BBQ sauce and warm right before serving to keep them fresh and delicious.
What other sauces can I serve with these meatballs?
While the spicy mayo dip is a perfect partner, you can also serve them with sweet chili sauce, hoisin sauce, or even a tangy kimchi aioli for different flavor profiles that complement the Savory Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Savory Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe enough! It’s the kind of dish that feels special but is easy enough to whip up any night of the week. The combination of juicy meatballs, flavorful glaze, and that creamy spicy dip is pure comfort food magic. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite for your friends and family too!
Print
Savory Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
These Savory Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs are a flavorful fusion of ground beef and pork, seasoned with garlic, ginger, and sesame, baked to perfection and tossed in a rich Korean BBQ sauce. Served with a creamy, spicy mayo dip, they’re perfect as a party appetizer or a delicious main dish for six.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound Ground Beef (can be substituted with ground turkey)
- 1 pound Ground Pork (substitute with more ground beef or turkey if preferred)
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crunch)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced (fresh garlic is best)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger, grated (fresh is recommended)
- 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (switch to tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (can be substituted with vegetable oil)
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Korean BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup Korean BBQ Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Spicy Mayo Dip
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons Green Onions, sliced (can be omitted)
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Combine the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
- Shape the Meatballs: Form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced for uniform baking.
- Bake the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 15 to 18 minutes until cooked through and browned on the outside.
- Glaze with BBQ Sauce: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add the baked meatballs and drizzle with Korean BBQ sauce. Toss gently for about 1-2 minutes until all meatballs are well coated and heated through.
- Prepare the Spicy Mayo Dip: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and sriracha until smooth. Adjust the spice level according to your taste preference.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the glazed meatballs to a platter and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve warm alongside the spicy mayo dip for dipping.
Notes
- For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and ensure breadcrumbs are gluten-free.
- Use ground turkey instead of pork or beef for a leaner option.
- The spicy mayo can be made lighter by using Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise.
- Meatballs can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking for convenience.
- If you prefer, the meatballs can also be pan-fried instead of baked for crispier edges.
