Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe

If you’re searching for a dinner that’s bursting with flavor yet easy enough for a weeknight, look no further than this Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe. Imagine juicy, tender meatballs infused with bold, savory notes from soy sauce, Parmesan, and fragrant herbs, all perfectly paired with a creamy, zesty mayo dip with a kick of sriracha. It’s the kind of dish that makes friends and family swoon, brings variety to your meal rotation, and transforms everyday ingredients into something extraordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s brilliant about this recipe is how a handful of pantry staples can come together for something truly unforgettable. Each ingredient has a purpose, whether it’s to add juiciness, depth of flavor, or a pop of color, making this Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe as tasty as it is eye-catching.

• 1 pound ground beef: Delivers rich, hearty flavor and luscious texture as the base of your meatballs.
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs while keeping them moist and tender.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, savory undertones no one will guess are in there, but everyone will love.
• 1 egg: Acts like culinary glue, holding your meatballs together.
• 1/4 cup chopped onion: Offers aromatic sweetness and moisture throughout the meatballs.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh, punchy garlic brings life to the entire dish.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkles of green for freshness and beautiful color contrast.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: A subtle earthiness that pairs perfectly with Asian flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances every ingredient so you get a balanced, craveable bite each time.
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Gives the meatballs just the right hint of background heat.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Infuses umami depth and Korean BBQ vibes in each meatball.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil: That special nutty aroma makes all the difference for true Asian-inspired flavor.
• Olive oil (as needed for cooking): Helps get those golden, crispy edges everyone loves.
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that makes the spicy mayo dip irresistibly rich and smooth.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha: Brings heat and tang, so every dip is bright and exciting.
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder: A touch of extra garlic flavor, rounding out the spicy mayo dip perfectly.

How to Make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe

Step 1: Mix Up the Meatball Magic

Start by gathering all your meatball ingredients: ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything into a large bowl. Using clean hands works best, gently mix everything together until just combined—the less you work the mixture, the more tender your meatballs will be. You’re looking for everything to be well dispersed, not over-mixed.

Step 2: Shape and Sear

Using a spoon or small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Set them aside on a plate. Next, heat a generous slick of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs without crowding the pan. Sear them on all sides until beautifully golden and cooked through, turning gently to keep their shape intact. This step locks in juiciness and gives each meatball that delectable, golden crust.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Spicy Mayo Dip

While the meatballs rest, let’s whip up that unforgettable dip. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder. Whisk everything together until silky smooth. This spicy mayo dip is creamy with the perfect amount of heat to balance each savory, cheesy meatball. Taste it and adjust the sriracha if you prefer more or less spice.

Step 4: Plate and Pair

Arrange your warm, glistening meatballs on a pretty platter or serve them up family–style right from the skillet. Set the spicy mayo dip in a small bowl alongside, ready for dunking. The savory aroma of these Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe will beckon everyone to the table the moment you finish plating!

How to Serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe

Garnishes

This dish truly shines with a little extra color and crunch. Try garnishing your Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, finely sliced green onions, or a bit of extra chopped parsley. Even a dash of chili flakes gives the plate an extra pop, making it both delicious and dinner party–worthy.

Side Dishes

For a complete meal, serve these meatballs over steamed jasmine or sticky rice to catch every drop of spicy mayo. A crisp Asian-style slaw, sautéed bok choy, or lightly pickled cucumbers add the perfect freshness and contrast. If you want a finger-food vibe, pair them with lettuce cups for DIY wraps.

Creative Ways to Present

To really impress at a gathering, skewer the meatballs with toothpicks and drizzle spicy mayo on top for pass-around appetizers. Or pile them on a soft slider bun with extra dip for a bold take on party sandwiches. For a picnic, tuck meatballs and sauce into bento boxes alongside rice and veggies—the Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe is the recipe that travels!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftover meatballs, simply transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 4 days, perfect for next-day lunches or easy dinners. Store the spicy mayo dip separately to maintain its creamy texture.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze the meatballs for longer storage. Let them cool completely, then arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months. Freezing the dip isn’t recommended, but you can whip up a fresh batch in seconds when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

To enjoy your Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe later, reheat the meatballs gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through. This keeps them juicy. For best results, make the spicy mayo dip fresh and serve it cold or at room temperature, letting every bite stay creamy and zesty.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey are great lean options and work perfectly with this recipe. Just keep in mind that leaner meats can be a little drier, so don’t overcook the meatballs and consider adding a splash more sesame oil for extra moisture.

Is the spicy mayo kids-friendly?

The spicy mayo has a gentle kick, but you can definitely adjust the amount of sriracha to suit younger or more spice-sensitive palates. Start with less and taste as you go, or serve the dip on the side so everyone can add their preferred amount of heat.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

If Parmesan isn’t your thing or you need a dairy-free swap, leave it out or replace it with nutritional yeast for that same savory, umami-rich touch. You could also try shredded Asiago or even a bit of miso paste for a creative twist.

How do I keep my meatballs juicy?

The secret to juicy meatballs in this Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe is using enough moisture (thanks, egg, soy sauce, and onion!) and not over-mixing the meat. Also, be gentle when forming the balls and avoid pressing them too tightly.

Can I make this recipe ahead for a party?

Yes, this recipe is a host’s dream. Shape and cook the meatballs a day in advance, refrigerate, and simply reheat before serving. Whip up the spicy mayo dip right before your party for the freshest flavor, and watch your guests swoon over these crowd-pleasing bites!

Final Thoughts

This Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe is pure weeknight (or weekend) magic. It’s the ultimate way to bring bold, comfort-food flavors to your table with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, give this crowd-pleaser a try—you’ll want to make it again and again!

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