If you love bold flavors and irresistible finger foods, this Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Juicy, well-seasoned meatballs meet a creamy, tangy, and spicy mayo dip that perfectly complements every bite, making it an unforgettable dish whether you’re hosting friends or just craving a flavorful snack. This recipe is a celebration of Korean-inspired tastes, blending sweet, savory, and spicy notes into meatballs that are tender to the core and bursting with umami. You’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh, and flavorful ingredients is key to achieving the delicious balance this dish is known for. Each item plays a unique role, from creating the perfect meatball texture to adding layers of flavor and color that make this recipe truly shine.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base providing rich flavor and moisture.
- 1/2 lb ground pork: Adds fat and tenderness for juicy meatballs.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of aromatic zest that deepens the savory profile.
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated: Offers a bright, slightly spicy note that livens up the mix.
- 2 tbsp gochujang: This Korean chili paste brings smoky heat and a touch of sweetness.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce: Provides salty umami depth essential for authentic flavor.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Keeps the meatballs tender by absorbing moisture without weighing them down.
- 1 large egg: Binds all ingredients together for perfect shape and texture.
- 2 tbsp green onions, thinly sliced: Adds fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color inside the meatballs.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil, plus more for searing: Delivers a nutty aroma and richness to both meatballs and cooking.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of the spicy mayo dip, balancing heat with smoothness.
- 1 tbsp gochujang: Infuses the dip with that irresistible Korean spice kick.
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar: Brings a subtle tang that brightens and lifts the dip’s flavor.
- 2 tsp honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness to mellow the spice.
- 1 tsp sesame oil: Gives the dip an extra layer of toasty depth.
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped, for garnish: A fresh, colorful finishing touch for presentation and flavor.
How to Make Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
Start by combining the ground beef and pork with minced garlic, fresh ginger, gochujang, soy sauce, panko breadcrumbs, egg, and green onions in a large bowl. Mix gently but thoroughly just until everything is evenly incorporated. This careful mixing ensures the meatballs stay tender rather than tough, while the gochujang and soy sauce infuse them with that unmistakable Korean BBQ flavor.
Step 2: Shape and Chill the Meatballs
Roll the meat mixture into small meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This size is perfect for even cooking and bite-sized enjoyment. Pop them into the fridge for 20 minutes to firm up, which helps them hold their shape and makes searing easier.
Step 3: Sear and Cook the Meatballs
Heat a thin film of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the meatballs in the skillet, giving them space to brown on all sides until golden. This caramelized crust adds flavor and texture. After browning, reduce the heat to medium, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This step guarantees tender, juicy meatballs with a fantastic balance of crispy exterior and moist inside.
Step 4: Prepare the Spicy Mayo Dip
While the meatballs finish cooking, make the spicy mayo dip by whisking together mayonnaise, gochujang, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil until perfectly smooth. This dip is a creamy, spicy complement that makes each bite of meatball extra exciting. It blends creamy texture with a bright kick and a hint of sweetness that plays off the meatball flavors beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Drizzle the tender Korean BBQ Meatballs generously with your spicy mayo dip, then sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Make sure to serve extra dipping sauce on the side — these flavorful meatballs invite double-dips!
How to Serve Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions are the classic choice for garnish, adding both color and subtle sharpness that contrasts with the rich meatballs. For an extra pop, you can also sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh cilantro to heighten aroma and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
These meatballs pair beautifully with simple steamed rice to soak up every bit of the spicy mayo. You can also serve them alongside crisp cucumber salad or pickled vegetables to balance the richness and add refreshing crunch. A light kimchi on the side elevates the Korean BBQ experience even further.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual get-together, serve these meatballs on bamboo skewers for easy sharing. Placing them on a bed of lettuce leaves or inside lettuce cups creates a fun, interactive way to enjoy them. You can also create sliders using mini buns, adding some kimchi or pickled jalapeños to amp up the flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe have cooled completely, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making them a perfect make-ahead snack or appetizer.
Freezing
If you want to keep these tasty meatballs longer, freeze them on a baking sheet first until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Properly frozen, they last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently either in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve their tender texture and prevent them from drying out. Refresh with an extra drizzle of spicy mayo dip before serving.
FAQs
Can I use all beef instead of mixing beef and pork?
Yes, you can use all ground beef if you prefer. However, mixing beef with pork adds extra moisture and rich flavor to the meatballs, keeping them more tender and juicy.
Is gochujang very spicy?
Gochujang is mildly spicy with a nice balance of sweetness and umami. You can adjust the amount in the meatballs and dip if you want to tone down or ramp up the heat according to your preference.
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers without altering the taste or texture significantly.
What’s the best way to tell when the meatballs are cooked?
The safest method is using a meat thermometer. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring they’re fully cooked and juicy but not overdone.
Can I prepare the spicy mayo dip in advance?
Yes, the spicy mayo can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving to keep it smooth and luscious.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that delivers on flavor, texture, and crowd-pleasing appeal every single time. Whether for a weeknight dinner or your next gathering, it’s sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy every juicy bite and don’t forget to double-dip!
Print
Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 meatballs (6 servings)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
These Tender Korean BBQ Meatballs are a flavorful fusion of ground beef and pork combined with traditional Korean ingredients like gochujang and sesame oil. Seared to perfection and finished with a spicy mayo dip, they make a perfect appetizer or main dish that packs a punch of umami and spice.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp gochujang
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil, plus more for searing
Spicy Mayo Dip
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp gochujang
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, minced garlic, grated ginger, gochujang, soy sauce, panko breadcrumbs, egg, and thinly sliced green onions. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
- Form and Chill Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1 to 1.5 inch balls, ensuring even size for consistent cooking. Place the formed meatballs on a tray and chill them in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to firm up, which helps them hold their shape during cooking.
- Sear and Cook Meatballs: Heat a thin layer of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and sear them on all sides until they develop a golden brown crust. Reduce the heat to medium, cover the skillet, and continue cooking the meatballs for 8–10 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring they are cooked through.
- Make the Spicy Mayo Dip: While the meatballs cook, whisk together mayonnaise, gochujang, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil in a bowl until smooth and well blended.
- Serve: Drizzle the cooked meatballs with the spicy mayo sauce and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve any extra spicy mayo on the side for dipping to enjoy the full flavor.
Notes
- Chilling the meatballs before cooking helps them hold their shape and improves texture.
- You can adjust the amount of gochujang in both the meatballs and the sauce to control spiciness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- These meatballs pair excellently with steamed rice or a fresh Asian-inspired salad.
