Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip! These little morsels of goodness have become a staple in my house, and I can’t get enough of them. I first tried making them for a casual get-together with friends, and they were an absolute hit! The smoky aroma of the grilled meatballs, combined with the savory and spicy flavors, had everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Now they’re a go-to dish for any occasion, be it a cozy dinner at home or a lively party.
What makes these meatballs truly special is their balance of flavors. The sweet and tangy Korean BBQ sauce pairs so nicely with that creamy, spicy mayo dip! Honestly, if you find yourself in need of an easy yet impressive dish, look no further. So let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into making these delightful bites!
What’s in Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip?
Ground Beef: The base of our meatballs. I like to use grass-fed ground beef for its rich flavor and leaner quality. Plus, it makes me feel a little fancy, right?
Panko Bread Crumbs: These light and airy bread crumbs help keep our meatballs tender and juicy while acting like a sponge for all those delicious flavors.
Green Onions: These guys are for that fresh and mild onion flavor. I love using them both in the meatballs and as a garnish—it’s a two-for-one deal!
Garlic: A must-have in any savory dish! Freshly minced garlic adds a beautiful depth of flavor that compliments the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
Korean BBQ Sauce: This is where the magic happens! A good-quality Korean BBQ sauce will infuse the meatballs with a sweet and spicy flavor. I adore using a brand like “Chogajib” for its authentic taste.
Mayonnaise: The base of our spicy dip. Trust me, it’s all about that creaminess!
Sriracha: This is the star of our spicy mayo dip. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance—but don’t be shy!
Is Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health benefits. These meatballs can be a great source of protein thanks to the ground beef and panko bread crumbs. If you want a lighter version, you can easily swap in ground turkey or chicken instead. Also, green onions are packed with vitamins A and C and add a nice nutritional punch!
However, one thing to keep in mind is the sodium content—especially if you’re using store-bought Korean BBQ sauce and mayonnaise. Moderation is key for maintaining a balanced diet. And if you’re watching your intake, consider making your own dipping sauce with Greek yogurt instead of mayo!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb Ground Beef (or turkey/chicken)
– 1/2 cup Panko Bread Crumbs
– 2 Green Onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Korean BBQ Sauce (or to taste)
– Salt and Pepper to taste
– For the Spicy Mayo Dip:
– 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
– 2-3 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust for heat)
This recipe makes about 24 meatballs, perfect for serving 4-6 people, depending on how hungry you are!
How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your grill if you prefer that smoky flavor.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, panko bread crumbs, chopped green onions, minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of Korean BBQ sauce.
3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, then mix everything together until just combined. You don’t want to overmix; that can make the meatballs tough!
4. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet or directly on your grill.
5. If baking, cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through. If grilling, flip them halfway through for even cooking.
6. While they’re baking or grilling, prepare the spicy mayo dip by combining mayonnaise and Sriracha in a small bowl. Mix well and adjust the heat to your preference.
7. Once the meatballs are done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving them with the spicy mayo dip and sprinkle some extra chopped green onions on top.
Get Creative with Your Meatballs!
Feel free to experiment with this recipe. You can add chopped cilantro or ginger for a fresh twist! If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating different dipping sauces like a sweet chili sauce or a creamy sesame dressing. And don’t forget to serve these meatballs with fresh veggies or rice to turn them into a complete meal!
Give this recipe a try; I promise you’ll be hooked. And hey, when you make these delicious meatballs, I’d love to hear how they turn out for you! Did you go for extra spice in the mayo? Let me know if you have any tips or variations you tried. Happy cooking!
