There’s something magical about Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo. Picture juicy meatballs, perfectly glazed, sizzling on a grill, releasing mouthwatering aromas that dance in the air. perfect side dish for BBQ The spicy mayo drizzled on top adds a delightful kick that makes your taste buds sing. crispy potato side dish unique dip for gatherings You can almost hear them harmonizing in delicious jubilation!
I remember the first time I made these meatballs for my friends during a casual get-together. The moment they sank their teeth into those flavorful bites, their eyes widened in pure delight. It turned into one of those unforgettable evenings filled with laughter and second helpings. For more inspiration, check out this Coconut Shrimp Curry recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Korean BBQ meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is a delightful mix of sweetness and spice that will keep everyone coming back for more
- Their stunning presentation will impress guests at any gathering
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as appetizers or main dishes at parties!
I once served these at a cookout, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about them!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Choose high-quality beef for the best flavor and texture, preferably an 80/20 mix for juiciness.
- Green Onions: Freshly chopped green onions add a crisp bite and vibrant color to the meatballs.
- Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves; they pack a punch and elevate the overall flavor profile.
- Ginger: Grated ginger brings warmth and zest to the dish; don’t skip it!
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These light breadcrumbs help create a fluffy texture while absorbing flavors beautifully.
- Korean BBQ Sauce: A sweet and savory sauce is essential for glazing the meatballs; you can find it in most stores.
- Sriracha or Gochujang: For that spicy mayo kick, choose your favorite heat level!
- Mayonnaise: Regular or vegan mayonnaise works well to create a creamy base for our spicy sauce. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Red Pepper Pasta recipe.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, and panko breadcrumbs. Mix gently with your hands until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep them tender.
Add Flavor Components: Drizzle in half of the Korean BBQ sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Fold everything together carefully until evenly distributed—I usually hum my favorite tune during this part!
Shape Your Meatballs: Use your hands to roll small portions of the mixture into balls about 1 inch wide. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper—this helps with cleanup later!
Cook Them Up!: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for about 15-20 minutes until they’re cooked through and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time.
Prepare Spicy Mayo Sauce: While the meatballs bake, mix mayonnaise with Sriracha or gochujang in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Adjust spiciness according to your preference—spice lovers rejoice!
Glaze and Serve!: Once cooked, toss the meatballs with remaining Korean BBQ sauce straight from the oven while they’re hot. Drizzle with spicy mayo just before serving for an extra pop of flavor—your guests will be lining up for seconds!
You Must Know
- Korean BBQ meatballs are not just delicious; they’re versatile and can be served as appetizers or main courses
- The sweet and spicy mayo adds a glorious kick, elevating every bite
- Pair them with rice or veggies for a complete meal experience
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your meatball ingredients thoroughly, then shape them before browning in a hot skillet. Once browned, bake them to cook through while maintaining that juicy texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for chicken or turkey for a lighter option. You can also add chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture. cozy comfort soup option.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, about 10-15 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure tender meatballs, avoid overmixing your meat mixture, which can lead to tough results
- Chilling the meatballs before cooking helps them hold their shape better during cooking
- For an extra kick, drizzle additional spicy mayo just before serving!
I remember making these Korean BBQ meatballs for a family gathering, and they vanished faster than I could say “appetizer.” Everyone was asking for seconds!
FAQ
Can I use different meats for Korean BBQ meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or pork works wonderfully, giving you more options.
How do I make the spicy mayo?
Mix mayonnaise with gochujang or sriracha for that perfect spicy kick.
Can these meatballs be frozen?
Yes! Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer before transferring to a bag for later use.
