Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

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These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are a flavor-packed twist on classic meatballs, combining savory, sweet, and spicy elements for an unforgettable appetizer or main dish. Made with ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a touch of sesame oil, these meatballs are tender, juicy, and bursting with umami. Paired with a creamy, zesty spicy mayo dip, they’re perfect for parties, game nights, or a fun family dinner. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: A perfect blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors.
• Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, snack, or main dish with rice or noodles.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A hit at parties and gatherings.

Ingredients Breakdown:

For the Meatballs:

• Ground beef (1 pound): The hearty base for the meatballs, offering rich, meaty flavor.
• Breadcrumbs (1/4 cup): Helps bind the mixture and keeps the meatballs tender.
• Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated): Adds a savory, umami depth.
• Egg (1): Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
• Onion (1/4 cup, chopped): Brings subtle sweetness and moisture.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the meatballs with aromatic richness.
• Parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds freshness and a pop of color.
• Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Brings an earthy, herby touch.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon) & Black pepper (1/8 teaspoon): Essential seasonings for balanced flavor.
• Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Infuses a deep, salty, umami kick.
• Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Provides a nutty, toasted flavor signature to Korean BBQ.

For the Spicy Mayo Dip:

• Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): The creamy base of the dip.
• Sriracha (1 tablespoon): Adds heat and a tangy spice.
• Soy sauce (1/2 teaspoon): Deepens the flavor with an umami touch.
• Sesame oil (1/4 teaspoon): Brings in a hint of nuttiness.
• Garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon): Enhances the dip with a mild garlicky bite.

Tips and Tricks

• Even Cooking: Make sure the meatballs are similar in size for even cooking.
• Baking Option: Bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes for a hands-off approach.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture and shape them ahead of time. Store in the fridge until ready to cook.
• Extra Flavor: Add a teaspoon of grated ginger to the meatball mixture for an extra zing.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Version: Add more sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat and vegan mayo for a meatless version.
• Sweet and Spicy Glaze: Toss the cooked meatballs in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and sriracha for a sticky glaze.
• Cheesy Twist: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the meatball mixture.

Pairing Suggestions

• Sides: Serve with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh cucumber salad.
• Drinks: Pair with a cold beer, iced tea, or a glass of white wine.
• Dessert: Finish with a light dessert like mochi ice cream or fresh fruit.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftover meatballs and dip in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Popular Questions

1. Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground chicken or turkey works well and makes for a lighter option.

2. How do I make the dip less spicy?
Reduce the amount of sriracha or omit it entirely. You can also add a bit more mayo to mellow the heat.

3. Can I make these meatballs in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 20-24 meatballs 1x

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Description

These juicy and flavorful Korean BBQ meatballs are packed with umami and a hint of sweetness, thanks to a blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and Parmesan. Paired with a creamy, spicy mayo dip, they make for an irresistible appetizer or meal option.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground pork or chicken)
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (helps bind the meatballs)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds richness and flavor)
• 1 egg (acts as a binder)
• ¼ cup chopped onion (adds sweetness and texture)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for a savory kick)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (adds freshness)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano (for an herby note)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (to season)
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper (for a hint of spice)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (adds umami depth)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for a nutty, aromatic flavor)

For the Spicy Mayo Dip:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise (creamy base)
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
• ½ teaspoon soy sauce (adds umami)
• ¼ teaspoon sesame oil (for a nutty finish)
• ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder (enhances the flavor)

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Instructions

Make the Meatballs:

• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
• Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
• Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.

 Cook the Meatballs:

• Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
• Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meatballs are browned on all sides and cooked through.
• 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.
• Adjust the sriracha to your desired spice level.

 Serve:

• Arrange the meatballs on a serving platter with the spicy mayo dip on the side.
• Garnish with additional chopped parsley or sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

• For a glossy finish, brush the cooked meatballs with a bit of sesame oil before serving.
• If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use cilantro or green onions for garnish.
• Always taste and adjust the seasoning of the spicy mayo before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Korean Fusion

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