There is something utterly irresistible about these Savory Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe that makes every bite an explosion of flavor and perfect texture. Bursting with tender, juicy meat infused with garlic, ginger, and soy, then glazed with that signature Korean BBQ sauce, these meatballs are the ultimate comfort snack or appetizer. Paired with a creamy, spicy mayo dip, they deliver a wonderful balance of savory, spicy, and sweet that will have you reaching for more. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a cozy night in, this recipe brings an unbeatable mix of warmth and zest right to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Savory Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe lies in its straightforward but thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor, tender texture, or that vibrant color that makes the dish pop.
- 1 pound Ground Beef: Provides rich flavor and moist texture; can be swapped for ground turkey if you prefer a leaner option.
- 1 pound Ground Pork: Adds juiciness and a slight sweetness; feel free to adjust the ratio or use only beef or turkey.
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs work best for a lighter, crunchier bite to your meatballs.
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic brings robust aroma and warmth to every bite.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (grated): Offers subtle zest and freshness, brightening the meatball mixture.
- 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce: Adds that essential savory umami note; tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil: Just a touch gives a nutty, aromatic depth; you can use vegetable oil but flavor will be milder.
- 1 cup Korean BBQ Sauce: The star glaze that ties the flavors together with sweet and smoky notes.
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base for the spicy mayo dip; Greek yogurt works as a healthier swap.
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha: Gives the dip a spicy kick; adjust quantity to suit your heat tolerance.
- 2 tablespoons Green Onions (sliced): Adds fresh color and a mild onion crunch; optional but highly recommended.
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds: Perfect for a decorative crunch and nutty finish on top.
How to Make Savory Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Meatball Mixture
Begin by grabbing a large mixing bowl and add in your ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then gently mix everything together. Be careful not to overwork the meat; you want it just combined to keep the meatballs tender and juicy once cooked.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Next, roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Taking the time to make uniform meatballs helps them cook evenly and look absolutely irresistible.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pop your tray of meatballs in and bake for 15 to 18 minutes until they are cooked through and have a lovely browned exterior. Baking keeps them moist without the fuss of frying, making this recipe wonderfully convenient.
Step 4: Glaze with Korean BBQ Sauce
Once baked, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs along with the Korean BBQ sauce and gently toss them for 1 to 2 minutes until each meatball is luxuriously coated. This step locks in that classic Korean BBQ flavor with just the right hint of sweetness and smokiness.
Step 5: Prepare the Spicy Mayo Dip
While the meatballs toast in the skillet, mix the mayonnaise and sriracha in a small bowl until smooth and well combined. This creamy, spicy mayo dip is the perfect partner, offering a cooling contrast with a subtle punch.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer your glossy meatballs to a serving platter, sprinkle generously with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for texture and visual appeal. Serve warm alongside the spicy mayo dip for dipping perfection that brings the entire dish together.
How to Serve Savory Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Adding sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds as garnishes not only enhances the flavor but gives your dish that authentic Korean-inspired look. These little touches create texture contrast and add a fresh, nutty aroma that makes each bite exciting.
Side Dishes
Complement these meatballs with light, crisp sides like steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad tossed with rice vinegar and sesame oil. These sides balance the rich meatballs and keep the meal fresh and delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party platter, skewer the meatballs on toothpicks and serve with small bowls of the spicy mayo dip and an extra bowl of Korean BBQ sauce for guests to double dip. Alternatively, pile them up over a bed of noodles or place in soft buns to create Korean-inspired sliders.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover meatballs in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the spicy mayo dip separate to maintain its fresh texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover meatballs by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to enjoy this Savory Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe anytime you want a quick flavorful treat.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen meatballs overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm them in a skillet with a little extra Korean BBQ sauce over medium heat. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the texture. Rewarm the spicy mayo dip gently or stir it to refresh the flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute soy sauce with tamari to keep the recipe gluten-free without sacrificing taste.
Can I use only one type of meat?
Yes, you can make these meatballs entirely with ground beef or ground turkey. Mixing beef and pork creates a balanced flavor and texture, but single meats work fine too.
How spicy is the mayo dip?
The mayo dip has a moderate heat level from the sriracha. You can easily adjust the amount of sriracha or omit it altogether for a milder version.
Can I prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the ingredients and form the meatballs a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator and bake fresh for best results.
What’s the best way to ensure meatballs stay tender?
Gently mixing the ingredients without overworking the meat and using a combination of beef and pork helps keep the meatballs wonderfully tender and juicy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that combines savory, tender textures with bold, spicy, and sweet flavors, the Savory Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe should be your next go-to. It’s a straightforward, crowd-pleasing recipe that brings warmth and excitement to any table. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe—you’ll find it’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a cozy, satisfying meal all on your own.
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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 delicious blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, baked to perfection, and then glazed with flavorful Korean BBQ sauce. Served with a creamy, spicy mayo dip, they make an irresistible appetizer or main dish perfect for gatherings or a weeknight meal.
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
Glaze and Garnish
- 1 cup Korean BBQ Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons Green Onions (sliced) (can be omitted)
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (optional garnish)
Spicy Mayo Dip
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
Instructions
- Combine the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients until just combined to maintain a tender texture.
- Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each meatball on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Bake the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
- Glaze with BBQ Sauce: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the baked meatballs along with the Korean BBQ sauce. Gently toss and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the meatballs to be evenly coated and heated through.
- Prepare the Spicy Mayo Dip: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and sriracha until smooth and well combined. Adjust the amount of sriracha to your preferred spice level.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving platter. Sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top for garnish. Serve warm alongside the spicy mayo dip for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or adjust the meat proportions based on preference.
- For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- To make the spicy mayo healthier, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Adjust the spiciness of the dip by controlling the amount of sriracha.
- These meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and reheated gently in a skillet with BBQ sauce before serving.
