For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra juiciness)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk (or water to soften the breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 large egg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Korean BBQ Glaze:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste, adjust for spice level)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey for a natural option)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (plus more for garnish)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
For the Spicy Mayo Dip:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil for added depth
For Serving:
- Cooked rice or noodles (optional, for a heartier meal)
- Extra green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the panko breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. Make the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened breadcrumb mixture, ground beef, green onions, garlic, ginger, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently with your hands until just combined—don’t overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Scoop out about 1–1.5 tablespoons of the mixture per meatball and roll into smooth balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
3. Bake the Meatballs
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned. (Internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C.)
4. Prepare the Korean BBQ Glaze
- While the meatballs bake, whisk together the soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sesame seeds, garlic, and ginger in a small saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly (about 3–5 minutes). Set aside.
5. Coat the Meatballs
- Once the meatballs are baked, brush or toss them generously with the Korean BBQ glaze, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Return the glazed meatballs to the oven for 2–3 minutes to set the glaze and enhance the flavors.
6. Make the Spicy Mayo Dip
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil (if using).
- Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more sriracha for heat or soy sauce for saltiness.
7. Serve & Enjoy
- Arrange the glazed meatballs on a serving platter and garnish with extra sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
- Serve warm with the spicy mayo dip on the side for dipping.
- Pair with steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy them on their own as an appetizer.
Tips for Success
- Use Gochujang Wisely: Gochujang adds both spice and depth, but if you’re sensitive to heat, start with 1 tablespoon and adjust as needed.
- Double the Sauce: Make extra Korean BBQ glaze and spicy mayo for drizzling over rice or noodles.
- Cook in a Skillet: For extra caramelization, sear the meatballs in a skillet before finishing them in the oven.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. Glaze them just before serving.
- Switch Proteins: Use ground chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a different twist.
Why This Recipe Works
These Korean BBQ Meatballs deliver a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors thanks to the rich glaze made with gochujang, soy sauce, and ginger. The juicy meatballs soak up the bold marinade, while the creamy spicy mayo dip provides a cooling contrast. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals.
Conclusion: A Crowd-Pleasing Dish That’s Big on Flavor
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, whipping up a weeknight dinner, or simply craving something bold and satisfying, these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip are sure to hit the spot. Their vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and versatility make them a standout dish that’s as fun to share as it is to eat. Plus, their adaptability means you can customize them to suit any occasion or taste preference.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your twist on these Korean BBQ meatballs might just inspire others to try them too! 🍢✨