These honey garlic meatballs are sweet, sticky, and oh-so-tasty! Made with ground meat and a delicious honey garlic sauce, they make for a perfect appetizer or main dish.
Honestly, who can resist those little bites of joy? I love to serve them with rice or on toothpicks for parties. They disappear faster than you can say “more, please!” 😄
Making these meatballs is super easy! Just mix, bake, and coat them in that yummy sauce. It’s a hit every time! Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close by!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: You can use ground beef for a classic flavor, but ground pork or a mix also works great. For a healthier option, try turkey or chicken. Just remember, these lean meats might need an extra splash of oil to stay juicy.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs add texture, but you can use panko for a lighter crunch. If gluten-free, try almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep that delicious consistency intact.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano can also work, or skip it altogether for a dairy-free version.
Honey: Since honey is key for that sweet glaze, if you’re looking for a vegan alternative, maple syrup or agave nectar can do the trick. Just keep in mind the flavor will differ a bit!
How Do I Get Juicy Meatballs?
Getting your meatballs perfectly juicy requires a few simple steps. Here’s how:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture. Gently combine ingredients until just mixed.
- Try to shape them uniformly. This ensures they cook evenly.
- Add moisture. Ingredients like egg and milk keep them tender; don’t skip these!
- Cook them in the oven. This method helps retain moisture as they cook.
By following these tips, your meatballs will be deliciously juicy every time!
How to Make Honey Garlic Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or pork, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- 1 tbsp ketchup (optional, for depth)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)
- Chopped green onions or chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30-35 minutes in total. Expect around 10 minutes for preparation and another 18-20 minutes for baking the meatballs. Quick and easy, right?
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Get it warm so the meatballs bake nicely!
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or pork), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix, or your meatballs might get tough!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Now, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the meatballs in the oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until they are browned and fully cooked through. Your kitchen will already be smelling amazing!
5. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, it’s time to whip up the honey garlic sauce. In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, mix together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and ketchup if you choose to use it. Stir gently and bring this delightful mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
If you want a thicker sauce, add the red pepper flakes for some heat! Then, stir in the cornstarch slurry (the cornstarch mixed with water) and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and is glossy.
7. Combine Meatballs with Sauce:
Once your meatballs are ready, take them out of the oven and carefully transfer them into the saucepan with the honey garlic sauce. Toss gently to coat the meatballs thoroughly in that sticky goodness!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with chopped green onions or chives. These are fantastic over rice or noodles, or on their own as a tasty appetizer. Enjoy your sweet, sticky, and savory honey garlic meatballs!
Can I Use Any Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef and pork are common choices, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Adjust your cooking time slightly based on the type of meat to ensure doneness.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar. Just keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They also freeze well! Just let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the honey garlic sauce in advance! Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you’re ready to use it, simply reheat on the stove and toss in the cooked meatballs.
