Description
Sticky Teriyaki Meatballs
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground beef (or pork/chicken)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp ginger, grated
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
Garnish:
Sesame seeds
Chopped parsley or green onions
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper in a bowl. Roll into 1-inch meatballs and place on the baking sheet.
Bake meatballs for 18-20 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
Prepare the sauce: In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Add cornstarch slurry and stir until thickened.
Toss baked meatballs in the teriyaki sauce until fully coated.
Garnish with sesame seeds and parsley or green onions before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 320 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect meatballs every time. First, ensure all meatball ingredients are cold for easier handling. Combine them in a large bowl using your hands or a fork, but avoid overmixing to prevent toughness. When rolling, aim for uniform 1-inch sizes so they cook evenly. For the sauce, whisk the cornstarch and water slurry thoroughly before adding to prevent lumps. Simmer the sauce until it coats the back of a spoon. Once the meatballs are baked, add them to the saucepan and gently toss or stir to coat them completely in the sticky glaze.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile meatballs can be the star of many meals. For a classic dinner, serve them over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice with a side of steamed broccoli. They make an excellent appetizer or party food when served warm in a dish with toothpicks. For a fun twist, use them to fill slider buns or lettuce wraps topped with extra green onions and a drizzle of sriracha mayo. A quick cucumber salad makes a perfect fresh and crunchy side dish.
How-to Summary
In summary, create meatballs by mixing beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and aromatics, then bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes. Simultaneously, make the glaze by simmering soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger, then thickening it with a cornstarch slurry. Combine the baked meatballs with the sauce, toss to coat, and garnish with sesame seeds and fresh herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Yes. You can assemble and bake the meatballs, then store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Ground chicken, turkey, or pork work well. For pork, consider using a slightly leaner blend to prevent excess grease.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats pulsed into crumbs.
My sauce isn’t thickening. What went wrong? Ensure your cornstarch slurry is well-mixed and that the sauce is at a gentle simmer when you add it. It will thicken as it heats.
Can I cook the meatballs in a different way? You can pan-fry them in a skillet over medium heat for a crispier exterior, or use an air fryer at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the meat: This compacts the proteins, leading to dense, tough meatballs. Mix just until combined.
- Using meat that’s not cold: Warm meat is harder to handle and can cause the fat to melt too early, affecting texture.
- Skipping the cornstarch slurry: This is crucial for a glossy, sticky sauce that clings to the meatballs.
- Crowding the baking sheet: Leave space between meatballs so they roast instead of steam, ensuring a better sear.
Conclusion
These Sticky Teriyaki Meatballs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining savory, sweet, and umami flavors in a simple, make-ahead dish. Whether served as a hearty family dinner or an impressive appetizer, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Mastering the simple techniques of not overmixing and properly thickening the sauce will ensure perfect results every time. Enjoy this versatile recipe that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.