Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs Tasty and Easy Recipe

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Looking for a dish that combines sweet and savory in one delightful bite? Try my Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs! This easy and tasty recipe features simple ingredients you probably have at home, like ground meat, honey, and soy sauce. You’ll impress your family and friends with these flavorful bites in no time. Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering meal that everyone will love!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
  2. Versatile Ingredients: With options to use ground beef or turkey, this recipe can cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.
  3. Sweet and Savory Flavor: The honey garlic glaze adds a deliciously balanced flavor that is sure to please everyone at the table.
  4. Great for Meal Prep: These meatballs store well, making them an excellent choice for meal prep or leftovers for lunch.

Ingredients

List of Required Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

To make these honey garlic glazed meatballs, you start with the meat. Ground beef gives a rich flavor, while turkey offers a lighter choice. Breadcrumbs add texture and help bind the mixture. Parmesan cheese brings a salty note that complements the meat. Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness. Minced garlic gives a strong flavor that shines through. Lastly, the egg helps hold everything together while adding moisture.

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

The sauce is where the magic happens. Honey provides sweetness, while soy sauce adds umami. Apple cider vinegar gives a tangy kick that balances the sweetness. Sesame oil adds depth with its nutty flavor. The cornstarch mix thickens the sauce, making it sticky and perfect for coating the meatballs.

Optional Garnishes

  • Sesame seeds
  • Chopped green onions

When serving, you can make your dish pop by adding garnishes. Sesame seeds give a nice crunch and look appealing. Chopped green onions add freshness and color. These simple touches elevate the dish and make it more inviting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for cooking the meatballs evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.

Mix the Meatball Mixture

Next, grab a large bowl. In this bowl, mix the ground beef or turkey with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Add in the chopped parsley and minced garlic. Crack the egg into the bowl and sprinkle in onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix until everything is well combined. This ensures all flavors blend nicely.

Forming and Baking Meatballs

Now it’s time to roll the mixture into meatballs. Take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Look for a nice brown color on the outside and ensure they are cooked through.

Prepare the Honey Garlic Glaze

While the meatballs bake, make the glaze. In a small saucepan, mix honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Then, stir in the cornstarch mixed with water. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Once thickened, remove it from heat.

Coat the Meatballs

When the meatballs are done baking, move them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the honey garlic glaze over the hot meatballs. Gently toss them to coat each meatball evenly in the sweet glaze.

Serving Suggestions

Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving platter. To make them look great, sprinkle sesame seeds on top and add some chopped green onions. This adds color and a nice crunch. Enjoy your delicious honey garlic glazed meatballs!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Meatballs

To make the best meatballs, you need the right mix. Use ground beef or turkey. For texture, add breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This blend keeps them moist and tasty. Mix well, but don’t overwork the meat. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Form them gently into tablespoon-sized balls. This size cooks evenly and stays juicy.

Adjusting the Sauce

Want a sweeter glaze? Add more honey. For a spicy kick, throw in some red pepper flakes or sriracha. Mix these into the sauce while it simmers. Taste as you go. This will help you find the perfect balance for your palate. You can also play with the soy sauce. Low-sodium soy sauce keeps it salty without being too much.

Cooking Methods

Baking is easy, but you can try frying meatballs too. Heat some oil in a pan and brown them on all sides. This gives them a nice crust. If you want to grill, shape the meatballs a bit larger. Grill them on medium heat for a smoky flavor. Each method gives a unique taste, so pick what you like best!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley will enhance the flavor of your meatballs significantly compared to dried alternatives.
  2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the meatball ingredients, mix just until combined to ensure tender meatballs instead of tough ones.
  3. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey in the glaze to suit your taste; you can add more for a sweeter finish or less for a savory balance.
  4. Serve with Sides: These honey garlic glazed meatballs pair wonderfully with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily switch up the meat in this recipe. Ground turkey works great if you want a lighter meal. You can also use ground chicken or pork for a different taste. For those who need gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. They will still hold the meatballs together and keep them tasty.

Different Flavor Profiles

Want to add extra zing? Try adding spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a nice heat. For a fresh twist, mix in chopped basil or thyme. These herbs can change the flavor and keep it exciting. You can also swap honey for maple syrup if you like a different sweetness.

Serving with Sides

Pair your meatballs with some steamed veggies for a balanced meal. Broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition. You can also serve them over rice or noodles. This makes a filling dish that everyone will love. Don’t forget to add a side salad for some crunch and freshness.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your honey garlic glazed meatballs, store leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to three days. Make sure to let them cool first before sealing. Label your container with the date. This way, you won’t forget when you made them.

Freezing Meatballs

Freezing meatballs is a great way to save them for later. To freeze, let the meatballs cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Instructions

When it’s time to enjoy your meatballs again, reheating is simple. You have a few options. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm. If you prefer the microwave, place them in a microwave-safe dish. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking to avoid overcooking. Enjoy your tasty meatballs just like they were fresh!

FAQs

How long to bake honey garlic glazed meatballs?

Bake honey garlic glazed meatballs for 20-25 minutes. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. To check doneness, cut one open. The meat should no longer be pink. If you want a nice brown color, leave them in a bit longer. Just watch them closely to avoid drying out.

Can I make honey garlic glazed meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep honey garlic glazed meatballs in advance. Mix the meatball ingredients and form the meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap. You can store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with honey garlic meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with many sides. Try serving them over rice or noodles. You can also add steamed broccoli or a fresh salad. For a finger-food option, serve them with toothpicks as an appetizer. They’re great for parties!

How do I make a vegetarian version?

To make a vegetarian version, use plant-based meat like lentils or chickpeas. You can also use mushrooms or tofu as a base. Add breadcrumbs and spices to mimic the texture. For the glaze, the original sauce works well with these alternatives. Enjoy a tasty twist on this dish!

You now know how to make tasty honey garlic glazed meatballs. We covered the key ingredients, from ground beef to sauces. I shared step-by-step instructions for mixing, baking, and glazing them. You learned tips to perfect your meatballs and explored fun variations and storage tips.

Remember, cooking should be fun. Get creative with flavors and enjoy sharing your dish. Happy cookin

- 1 lb ground beef or turkey - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - 1 egg, beaten - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tsp onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste To make these honey garlic glazed meatballs, you start with the meat. Ground beef gives a rich flavor, while turkey offers a lighter choice. Breadcrumbs add texture and help bind the mixture. Parmesan cheese brings a salty note that complements the meat. Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness. Minced garlic gives a strong flavor that shines through. Lastly, the egg helps hold everything together while adding moisture. - 1/2 cup honey - 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred) - 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar - 1 tsp sesame oil - 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water The sauce is where the magic happens. Honey provides sweetness, while soy sauce adds umami. Apple cider vinegar gives a tangy kick that balances the sweetness. Sesame oil adds depth with its nutty flavor. The cornstarch mix thickens the sauce, making it sticky and perfect for coating the meatballs. - Sesame seeds - Chopped green onions When serving, you can make your dish pop by adding garnishes. Sesame seeds give a nice crunch and look appealing. Chopped green onions add freshness and color. These simple touches elevate the dish and make it more inviting. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for cooking the meatballs evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy. Next, grab a large bowl. In this bowl, mix the ground beef or turkey with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Add in the chopped parsley and minced garlic. Crack the egg into the bowl and sprinkle in onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix until everything is well combined. This ensures all flavors blend nicely. Now it's time to roll the mixture into meatballs. Take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Look for a nice brown color on the outside and ensure they are cooked through. While the meatballs bake, make the glaze. In a small saucepan, mix honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Then, stir in the cornstarch mixed with water. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Once thickened, remove it from heat. When the meatballs are done baking, move them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the honey garlic glaze over the hot meatballs. Gently toss them to coat each meatball evenly in the sweet glaze. Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving platter. To make them look great, sprinkle sesame seeds on top and add some chopped green onions. This adds color and a nice crunch. Enjoy your delicious honey garlic glazed meatballs! To make the best meatballs, you need the right mix. Use ground beef or turkey. For texture, add breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This blend keeps them moist and tasty. Mix well, but don’t overwork the meat. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Form them gently into tablespoon-sized balls. This size cooks evenly and stays juicy. Want a sweeter glaze? Add more honey. For a spicy kick, throw in some red pepper flakes or sriracha. Mix these into the sauce while it simmers. Taste as you go. This will help you find the perfect balance for your palate. You can also play with the soy sauce. Low-sodium soy sauce keeps it salty without being too much. Baking is easy, but you can try frying meatballs too. Heat some oil in a pan and brown them on all sides. This gives them a nice crust. If you want to grill, shape the meatballs a bit larger. Grill them on medium heat for a smoky flavor. Each method gives a unique taste, so pick what you like best! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley will enhance the flavor of your meatballs significantly compared to dried alternatives. Don't Overmix: When combining the meatball ingredients, mix just until combined to ensure tender meatballs instead of tough ones. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey in the glaze to suit your taste; you can add more for a sweeter finish or less for a savory balance. Serve with Sides: These honey garlic glazed meatballs pair wonderfully with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. {{image_2}} You can easily switch up the meat in this recipe. Ground turkey works great if you want a lighter meal. You can also use ground chicken or pork for a different taste. For those who need gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. They will still hold the meatballs together and keep them tasty. Want to add extra zing? Try adding spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a nice heat. For a fresh twist, mix in chopped basil or thyme. These herbs can change the flavor and keep it exciting. You can also swap honey for maple syrup if you like a different sweetness. Pair your meatballs with some steamed veggies for a balanced meal. Broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition. You can also serve them over rice or noodles. This makes a filling dish that everyone will love. Don’t forget to add a side salad for some crunch and freshness. After enjoying your honey garlic glazed meatballs, store leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to three days. Make sure to let them cool first before sealing. Label your container with the date. This way, you won't forget when you made them. Freezing meatballs is a great way to save them for later. To freeze, let the meatballs cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When it's time to enjoy your meatballs again, reheating is simple. You have a few options. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm. If you prefer the microwave, place them in a microwave-safe dish. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking to avoid overcooking. Enjoy your tasty meatballs just like they were fresh! Bake honey garlic glazed meatballs for 20-25 minutes. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. To check doneness, cut one open. The meat should no longer be pink. If you want a nice brown color, leave them in a bit longer. Just watch them closely to avoid drying out. Yes, you can prep honey garlic glazed meatballs in advance. Mix the meatball ingredients and form the meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap. You can store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake them when you're ready to serve. These meatballs pair well with many sides. Try serving them over rice or noodles. You can also add steamed broccoli or a fresh salad. For a finger-food option, serve them with toothpicks as an appetizer. They’re great for parties! To make a vegetarian version, use plant-based meat like lentils or chickpeas. You can also use mushrooms or tofu as a base. Add breadcrumbs and spices to mimic the texture. For the glaze, the original sauce works well with these alternatives. Enjoy a tasty twist on this dish! You now know how to make tasty honey garlic glazed meatballs. We covered the key ingredients, from ground beef to sauces. I shared step-by-step instructions for mixing, baking, and glazing them. You learned tips to perfect your meatballs and explored fun variations and storage tips. Remember, cooking should be fun. Get creative with flavors and enjoy sharing your dish. Happy cooking!

Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs

Delicious meatballs coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 0.5 cup honey
  • 0.25 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
  • for garnish sesame seeds and chopped green onions

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  • Using your hands, roll the mixture into tablespoon-sized meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside.
  • In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
  • Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the honey garlic glaze over the meatballs and gently toss to coat evenly.
  • Transfer the glazed meatballs onto a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Notes

Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
Keyword appetizer, honey garlic, meatballs

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