These Mongolian Beef Meatballs are bursting with flavor and made in just 30 minutes! They’re tender, sweet, and a little spicy, making them a hit for dinner.
Whipping these up is a breeze! I love serving them over rice. You get meatballs and saucy goodness all in one bite—pure yum! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 ratio is ideal for a juicy flavor. If you prefer leaner meat, go for 90/10, but expect slightly less richness. Ground turkey or chicken can also work if you’re looking for lighter options.
Breadcrumbs: I like using panko for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs do a fine job too. If you need a gluten-free option, try crushed rice crackers or ground oats.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while maintaining flavor. For gluten-free, choose tamari or coconut aminos. I sometimes add a dash of liquid aminos for a twist!
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives a rich sweetness. If you run out, white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses can work. For a healthier option, try honey or maple syrup, but adjust to taste as they’re sweeter.
How Do I Get My Meatballs to Hold Together?
Getting meatballs to stay together can be tricky! Here are some helpful tips:
- Make sure to mix the ingredients well, but don’t overwork the meat. Just combine until they are incorporated.
- Breadcrumbs act as a binder. If your mixture feels too wet, add a little more.
- Chill the formed meatballs for about 10-15 minutes before baking. This helps them firm up and keeps their shape during cooking.
Following these steps will give you perfectly shaped meatballs ready for baking!
30-Minute Mongolian Beef Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
- Steamed broccoli
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the meatballs and sauce, and then about 15 to 20 minutes baking the meatballs. It’s a delicious meal that comes together fast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, salt, and sliced green onions. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well blended. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly incorporated!
2. Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, start forming the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to keep them from sticking.
3. Bake the Meatballs:
Once the oven is ready, pop the baking sheet in and bake the meatballs for about 15 to 20 minutes. They should be cooked through and nicely browned by the time they’re ready.
4. Make the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, let’s whip up the sauce! In a small saucepan over medium heat, stir together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and a mixture of cornstarch with water. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens a bit, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat.
5. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Once the meatballs are done baking, take them out of the oven and toss them in the sauce until they’re all coated and delicious. This will give them a shiny, flavorful glaze!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the meatballs over a bed of cooked white rice, with steamed broccoli on the side. For a finishing touch, sprinkle extra sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier, so consider adding an extra tablespoon of oil or a splash of broth to keep the meatballs moist.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of sriracha to the sauce while it’s cooking. Taste it as you go to find your perfect spice level!
Can I Prepare the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the meatballs a day in advance! Simply form them and place them on the baking sheet, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to cook, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are chilled.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave them until heated through or warm them gently in a skillet with a splash of water to keep them moist.
