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.
