Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or chicken), breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, soy sauce, and green onions. Mix gently until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into bite-sized meatballs and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for 18–20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, vinegar, chili sauce, and sesame oil. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the prepared sauce, making sure each meatball is well-coated.
- Serve with a garnish of chopped green onions and slices of red chili for an extra kick!
Best ways to enjoy it
These Sweet & Spicy Honey Garlic Meatballs can shine as a stand-alone dish, but they can also be paired beautifully with:
- Steamed rice: The sauce pools perfectly in a bowl of jasmine or brown rice.
- Noodles: Toss with your favorite rice noodles for a quick stir-fry experience.
- Salad: Serve over a bed of fresh greens for a lighter option with zing.
- Appetizer platter: Add them to a spread alongside fresh veggies and dipping sauces.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To ensure your meatballs stay delicious even after the first serving:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: When ready to serve, reheat in the oven until heated through or microwave for a quick meal. Ensure that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t overmix: When combining the meat mixture, mix just until combined to keep meatballs tender.
- Use a cookie scoop: For uniform-sized meatballs, a cookie scoop can help you portion them out quickly.
- Adjust spiciness: Control the heat in the sauce by varying the amount of chili garlic sauce or sriracha according to your taste.
Creative twists
If you’re feeling adventurous, try these variations:
- Add herbs: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the meat mixture.
- Gluten-free option: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or ground oats.
- Use different sauces: Swap honey for maple syrup for an alternative sweetness, or use teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Stuffed meatballs: Stuff meatballs with a small cube of mozzarella cheese for a gooey surprise inside!
Common questions
What is the prep time for these meatballs?
The total prep time generally takes about 10-15 minutes, making this recipe quick enough for any evening.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce separately, then combine them just before serving. They also freeze well, as mentioned earlier.
Are there substitutes for ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative works perfectly for this recipe!
With these tips and insights, you’re set to create the most scrumptious Sweet & Spicy Honey Garlic Meatballs that will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds)!
