Are you ready to spice up your dinner? These Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo are easy, fun, and packed with flavor! I’ll guide you through each step, from mixing the perfect meatball blend to creating a creamy, zesty sauce. Whether you’re hosting friends or just want a delicious weeknight meal, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s dive in and make something amazing together!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Meatballs
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Ingredients for Spicy Mayo
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more for additional heat)
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Optional Ingredients
– Red pepper flakes, sesame seeds for garnish
The main ingredients for the meatballs are simple yet flavorful. Ground beef forms the base. I like to add panko breadcrumbs for a light texture. The green onions and garlic bring a fresh punch. Soy sauce adds saltiness, while sesame oil gives a nice nutty flavor. Ginger warms everything up.
For the spicy mayo, I mix mayonnaise with sriracha for heat. Lime juice adds a zesty kick. A pinch of salt balances all the flavors. If you want extra spice, add red pepper flakes. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a nice crunch.
If you want the full flavors, check out the Full Recipe for everything you need.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Combine and Mix Ingredients
– In a large bowl, add the ground beef.
– Next, add the panko breadcrumbs and finely chopped green onions.
– Stir in the minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, sugar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
– Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well. You want it to be fully combined and stick together nicely.
Shape and Bake Meatballs
– Take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into a ball about 1 inch wide.
– Place each meatball on the lined baking sheet, leaving space between them.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. They should turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
– While the meatballs bake, you can prepare the spicy mayo.
For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions above.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture for your meatballs, mix well. Use your hands for even blending. This helps the ingredients stick together. If the mix feels too dry, add a little more soy sauce. If it’s too wet, add more panko breadcrumbs. Aim for a firm yet soft mixture. This makes the meatballs moist inside and crispy outside.
Baking Tips
Baking these meatballs is simple. After shaping them, place them on the baking sheet. Make sure they have space to breathe. Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. The inside should reach 160°F (71°C). The meatballs should look golden brown. If they aren’t brown enough, broil them for a minute or two. This adds a nice crunch.
Making the Spicy Mayo
Spicy mayo is easy to make. Start with mayonnaise in a bowl. Add sriracha for heat and mix well. If you want it spicier, add more sriracha. You can also try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. Squeeze in lime juice for a tangy kick. Taste it and adjust the salt as needed. This sauce adds a great flavor to your meatballs and brings everything together. For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions above.
Variations
Meatball Variations
You can switch things up by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Both options create a lighter meatball. Ground turkey keeps a nice flavor and works well with the spices. Ground chicken has a softer texture, making it easy to bite. Adjust cooking time if you use these meats. They may cook faster than beef.
Sauce Alternatives
While the spicy mayo is fantastic, you can try other sauces. A sweet soy glaze adds a nice touch of sweetness. A sesame ginger sauce brings a fresh flavor that complements the meatballs. For a tangy twist, use a zesty lime dressing. Each sauce can change the dish’s vibe and enhance your meal.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these meatballs with steamed rice or fresh veggies for a balanced plate. You can also serve them as appetizers at gatherings. Try adding a side of pickled vegetables for a crunchy contrast. Another great idea is to set up a meatball slider bar. Use mini buns and let everyone build their own sliders. These options make your meal fun and interactive. For more details, check out the Full Recipe.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Korean BBQ meatballs fresh, store them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool down first. Place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb moisture. This helps prevent sogginess. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you have spicy mayo left, keep it in a separate container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about a week.
Reheating Tips
When it’s time to eat your leftovers, you want to keep them tasty. The best way to reheat meatballs is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method keeps the meatballs juicy and prevents them from drying out. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook them. Heat in short bursts and check often.
Freezing Information
If you want to save your meatballs for later, freezing works great. Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe bag. Try to remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat them in the oven or microwave as mentioned above. Enjoy your delicious meal anytime! For the full recipe, check out the earlier section.
FAQs
How can I make Korean BBQ Meatballs spicier?
You can increase the heat in your meatballs by adding more red pepper flakes. Start with one teaspoon and adjust to your taste. For extra heat, add more sriracha to the spicy mayo. You can also use fresh chili peppers in the meatball mix.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these meatballs in advance. Make the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them before baking. When you’re ready, bake straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with Korean BBQ Meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with several sides. Consider serving them with steamed rice or a fresh salad. You can also serve pickled vegetables for a nice crunch. For drinks, sweet tea or light beer complements the flavors well.
In this blog, we explored making tasty Korean BBQ meatballs and their spicy mayo. You learned about the main ingredients like ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, and green onions. We covered step-by-step instructions for mixing and baking them to perfection. You also found tips for texture and storage advice.
These meatballs are quick to make and fun to try. Experiment with variations or serve them with your favorite sides. Enjoy your cooking journey!
