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Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip offer a sweet and savory experience that shines on any dinner table. Each bite delivers slightly spicy notes from Korean chili paste, balanced by the earthy richness of soy sauce and sesame oil. Whether you use ground beef or ground chicken, you get juicy meatballs packed with flavor and coated in a sticky glaze that captures the essence of Korean barbecue.
This recipe draws inspiration from popular dishes such as Noodles and Company Korean Meatballs, yet it remains approachable for home cooks. You can bake the meatballs on a baking sheet for a hassle-free method or opt for a stovetop approach. Either way, the meat stays tender without drying out.
A simple spicy mayo sauce completes the dish, giving a creamy dip that pairs well with the sticky glaze. Served as an appetizer or a main course, these meatballs with spicy mayo dip are a fun, crowd-pleasing idea. Plus, you can make extra for an easy meal prep option. Enjoy the bold tastes of Korean cuisine with minimal effort.
Table of Contents
Key Benefits
Bursting Flavor Profile
Korean BBQ meatballs with spicy flavors stand out because they combine sweet and savory elements. The soy sauce brings umami, and the sesame oil adds an aromatic note. Gochujang in the meatballs (Korean chili paste) delivers that spicy korean punch, making each bite anything but bland.
Versatile Cooking Options
You can bake the meatballs in the oven or cook them on the stovetop over medium heat. Oven-baking helps meatballs cook evenly, while pan-frying can create browned edges. Either way, they remain juicy on the inside.
Convenient for Gatherings
These meatballs as an appetizer work great at parties or family dinners. You can also scale the recipe up or down. They are easy to plate, and that spicy mayo dip adds a touch of creaminess. Guests can dip the meatballs or spoon extra sauce onto their plates.
Meal Prep Friendly
You can freeze cooked meatballs for busy nights. After you make them, store them in an airtight container. Later, reheat them, add the spicy mayo dip, and dinner is ready. This helps you avoid drying out the meatballs by microwaving from frozen without sauce.
Inspired by Popular Dishes
Some fans of hearty fare adore the taste of noodles and company korean meatballs recipe. Here, you can achieve a similar richness without fuss. The sweet and savory sauce pairs nicely with noodles, rice, or even lettuce wraps.
Ingredients
Below is a list of everything you need to prepare the meatballs and sauce. Each item contributes a layer of taste that evokes the flavors of korean barbecue.
- Ground Beef (1-1½ pounds): You can also mix ground chicken or another ground meat if preferred.
- Soy Sauce (6 tablespoons total, divided): Essential for savory depth. You will use it both in the meatball mixture and in the sauce. Combine soy sauce with other liquids to form a bold glaze.
- Sesame Oil (5 tablespoons total, divided): Brings a nutty aroma.
- Breadcrumb (½ cup): Helps bind the meatballs so they hold their shape.
- Mayonnaise (½ cup): Forms the base of your spicy mayo sauce.
- Rice Vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds a tangy brightness that balances spice.
- Green Onion (2-3 stalks, finely chopped): Infuses freshness. You may use more if you love onion flavor. Reserve a bit of chopped green onion for garnish.
- Korean Chili Paste (1½ tablespoons gochujang): Delivers heat that is characteristic of Korean cuisine.
- Korean BBQ Sauce (¼ cup): A pre-made sauce or homemade sauce can work. If you cannot find it, store-bought korean bbq sauce works fine in a pinch.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds aromatic pungency.
- Sugar or Honey (1 tablespoon, optional): If you prefer a sweeter glaze.
- Optional Seasonings: Salt, pepper, or additional chili flakes for extra spice.
For the spicy mayo dip, gather:
- Mayonnaise (¼ cup more): This pairs well with tangy rice vinegar.
- Rice Vinegar (1 teaspoon more): You may adjust to taste.
- Gochujang or Hot Sauce (1 teaspoon): Optional for more heat.
- Spicy Mayo Dip Combine method: Mix mayo, vinegar, and chili paste thoroughly.
You also need a baking sheet lined with parchment or a sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Using parchment paper ensures the meatballs do not stick.
How To Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
Start by taking out a large bowl. In it, combine ground beef (or your preferred ground meat) with the following ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- ½ cup breadcrumb
- 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
- 1 minced garlic clove
- 1 tablespoon Korean chili paste (gochujang)
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional for sweetness)
If you want to make the meatballs extra tender, add a tablespoon of mayonnaise to the mixture. Also add half of your chopped green onion to the bowl for a burst of flavor. Stir gently but thoroughly so that each piece of ground meat is coated with these seasonings. This is how you make the meatballs in a way that yields a soft texture.
By adding gochujang in the meatballs, you impart that spicy korean zing from the start. Some people might prefer ground chicken instead of ground beef, which is perfectly acceptable for these Korean bbq meatball creations. Using a spoon or your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs of roughly equal size. Aim for golf-ball size so they cook evenly.
Step 2: Bake the Meatballs
Place these uncooked meatballs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment. Make sure there is space between them so the heat can circulate. Slide them into an oven preheated to 400°F (about 200°C). This is how you bake the meatballs if you want a hands-off cooking approach. Keep an eye on them, and flip once if desired. The total baking time is around 15–20 minutes, depending on your oven.
Observe how the meatballs are baking. When the meatballs are done, they should appear browned and feel firm in the center. Use a thermometer if you like, ensuring they reach about 160–165°F (71–74°C) for ground beef or ground chicken. Once your meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and set them aside temporarily. You will glaze them soon.
Step 3: Create the BBQ Glaze
Meanwhile, gather a small saucepan to make your bbq glaze. Over medium heat, whisk together:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1–2 tablespoons Korean BBQ sauce
- 1 minced garlic clove
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (if desired)
- ½ tablespoon gochujang
Warm this mixture, and let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. You can also add a splash of water if it gets too thick. The ultimate goal is a korean bbq glaze that is syrupy enough to stick to meatballs. Sometimes a korean bbq sauce already contains sweeteners, so you can adjust sugar or honey based on taste. If you prefer more heat, sprinkle in extra chili flakes or a dab more gochujang.
Step 4: Toss Meatballs in the Sauce
Drop the baked meatballs into the saucepan, letting them soak up the flavors. Stir gently so you do not break them. You want to coat meatballs thoroughly with that sticky glaze. This is how you incorporate the bbq sauce over the meatballs, creating glazed meatballs that shine on your plate.
If you like a more intense taste, allow the meatballs in the sauce to simmer for about 2–3 minutes. This step helps cook until the sauce thickens further, sealing in the bold notes of soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili paste. Because we have combined soy sauce with sugar or honey, the end result is a balanced marinade.
Step 5: Spicy Mayo Dip
No bbq meatballs with spicy mayo would be complete without a creamy companion. For the dip, mix:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon gochujang (or your favorite hot sauce)
This simple method is how you perform the spicy mayo dip combine step. You can add more mayonnaise if you prefer a milder heat. This spicy mayo sauce is also a quick drizzle for other Korean-inspired dishes. The tangy vinegar plus chili paste ensures a punchy flavor that pairs with sweet meatballs.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Swap Your Ground Meat: If you prefer lighter protein, ground chicken works well. It might be slightly leaner, so watch your cooking time to avoid overbaking.
- Boost the Heat: Adjust the amount of Korean chili paste if you crave an even spicier experience. A dash of crushed red pepper or cayenne can offer more spice.
- Enhance the Texture: If you enjoy a crunch, add some chopped water chestnuts or grated carrots to the mix. This approach can add variety while preserving the taste.
- Experiment with Toppings: Garnish with chopped green onion, sesame seeds, or even finely diced chili for more color.
- Try a Stovetop Approach: Instead of the oven, cook the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil to keep them from sticking. This method browns the outside nicely, but keep an eye on them so you do not burn the glaze.
- Sauce Tweaks: If you run out of homemade marinade, store-bought korean bbq sauce works in a pinch. Just warm it up and toss the meatballs in it.
- Meal-Prep Tip: This dish is excellent for planning ahead. You can freeze cooked meatballs for up to two months. Thaw, reheat, and add the sauce as needed.
- Noodles and Company Vibes: Some folks love referencing noodles and company korean meatballs as a mealtime favorite. If you want something close to a company korean meatballs recipe, serve these with noodles or cabbage slaw for that same restaurant-inspired feel.
Serving Suggestions
Once you prepare the meatballs, it’s time to plate them. You can:
- Serve the meatballs and the dip side by side. This allows guests to dip the meatballs into that tangy sauce.
- For bigger gatherings, place your meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to keep them warm in a low oven. Provide the spicy mayo dip in a small bowl, or even drizzle over the top for immediate enjoyment.
- If you are serving a full meal, pair these Korean bbq meatballs with spicy accompaniments like kimchi, steamed rice, or ramen noodles. Rice can absorb any extra sauce and dip, which is a treat.
- Round out the meal with a crisp cucumber salad, lettuce wraps, or grilled vegetables. The light crunch balances the deep sweetness from the glaze.
- For an appetizer-style presentation, spear each meatball with a toothpick, adding a dab of the mayo sauce on top. Guests can munch on them easily during game day, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
Conclusion
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip bring sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors together in one dish. Each bite offers a bold blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili paste, creating a unique taste that’s not overwhelming to prepare at home. The meatballs turn out juicy and glossy once coated with a tangy glaze, while the creamy mayo dip adds a cooling element on the side.
This recipe showcases just how simple it is to replicate the flavors of Korean barbecue. By mixing standard ingredients like ground beef, breadcrumb, and a few special seasonings, you end up with a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering. If you want a fun twist on classic meatballs, give this dish a try. It’s a memorable way to enjoy a spicy, comforting meal without a lot of fuss.
If you love bold and flavorful dishes like this, be sure to check out our easy and delicious Hot Honey Chicken and Rice Bowls recipe for another perfect weeknight meal.
FAQs
Below are answers to some frequently asked questions. These details might help you understand the dish better and adapt it for your needs.
What makes Korean BBQ spicy?
The primary source of heat in Korean BBQ is often korean chili paste, also known as gochujang. This ingredient adds depth and subtle sweetness, creating a spicy kick that sets Korean barbecue apart from other styles. Fresh chili peppers or chili flakes may also be used, depending on personal preference.
What is the nutritional value of Korean meatballs?
Korean meatballs typically feature ground meat (commonly beef or chicken), soy sauce, sesame oil, and breadcrumb. They provide protein, but the exact nutritional value depends on portion size and additional ingredients like sugar or oils. Baking in the oven can help reduce extra fats compared to deep-frying. Adding vegetables such as carrots or onions may enhance the nutritional profile further.
What are Korean barbecue meatballs made of?
Korean barbecue meatballs usually consist of ground beef or another meat, paired with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and sweeteners for that sweet and savory glaze. Some recipes add korean chili paste for heat. The mixture into meatballs often includes a breadcrumb component to bind everything together, and then they are coated in a sauce made from korean bbq sauce, gochujang, or a blend of both.
What is the flavor of Korean BBQ?
Korean BBQ often has a perfect balance of sweet and spicy undertones, paired with savory notes from soy sauce and sesame oil. It is common to cook the meatballs until browned or grill cuts of marinated meat. Many of the flavors of Korean cooking focus on that sweet, spicy, and umami trio that is so recognizable.
What makes Korean food so spicy?
Gochujang and dried chili flakes are a big reason Korean food is known for its heat. These ingredients create bold flavor that can be mild or strong, depending on how much you add. Spicy dishes are a characteristic of korean cuisine, though you can always tone down the heat by reducing the chili elements.
What does Korean sauce taste like?
Korean sauce often leans toward coated in a sweet marinade with a spicy layer. Ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and gochujang all play a part. Expect a balance of tangy, sweet, earthy, and spicy flavors that meld together seamlessly.
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1½ pounds ground beef or ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumb
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon Korean chili paste gochujang
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar or honey optional
- 2 stalks green onion finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Korean BBQ Glaze:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- ¼ cup Korean BBQ sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 garlic clove minced
- ½ tablespoon gochujang
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey optional
For the Spicy Mayo Dip:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon gochujang or hot sauce
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumb, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, gochujang, rice vinegar, sugar, chopped green onion, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined but do not overwork.
- Shape into small meatballs (about golf ball size).
Bake the Meatballs
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
Make the Korean BBQ Glaze
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, BBQ sauce, garlic, gochujang, and sugar.
- Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
Coat the Meatballs
- Toss the baked meatballs in the warm BBQ glaze until evenly coated.
Prepare the Spicy Mayo Dip
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, rice vinegar, and gochujang.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
Serve
- Arrange meatballs on a serving plate.
- Garnish with extra chopped green onion or sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve with spicy mayo dip on the side.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Calories | Fat | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fiber | Sugar | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 410 kcal | 27 g | 22 g | 16 g | 1 g | 5 g | 820 mg |
