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Craving a meal that’s both savory and easy to make? You’re in for a treat! In this post, I’ll share my simple recipe for Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs. You’ll learn how to whip up delicious meatballs coated in a sweet and tangy glaze that’s perfect for dinner or snacks. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you’ll impress your family and friends at the dinner table. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Glaze: The honey garlic glaze adds a sweet and savory flavor that perfectly complements the meatballs.
- Versatile Meal: These meatballs can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or even in a sub sandwich for a delicious twist.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these meatballs, making them a hit at family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
The main ingredients for honey garlic glazed meatballs are simple. You can use ground beef or turkey. Both create a tasty base. Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs. Parmesan cheese adds flavor and richness. The beaten egg acts as a binder too. Garlic and parsley give a nice aroma and taste. Don’t forget a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Honey Garlic Glaze Components
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
The glaze is the star of this dish. Honey brings sweetness and a beautiful shine. Low sodium soy sauce adds a savory kick. Rice vinegar adds a bit of tang. A hint of sesame oil gives a nice depth of flavor. Together, they make a glaze that coats the meatballs perfectly.
Garnishing Elements
– Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
– Optional toppings (sesame seeds, extra glaze)
Garnishing is key for presentation. Green onions add a fresh touch and a pop of color. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds for crunch. If you like, drizzle extra glaze on top. These small details make your dish look even more inviting.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Ingredients
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 keeps the meatballs from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Mixing the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Add the beaten egg, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything until well blended. It should feel sticky but not too wet.
Baking Instructions for Meatballs
Now, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes. They are done when they are golden brown and cooked through.
Making the Honey Garlic Glaze
While the meatballs bake, prepare the honey garlic glaze. In a small saucepan, mix honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This thickens the glaze to the right texture.
Glazing the Meatballs
Once the meatballs are baked, take them out of the oven. Place them in a large bowl and pour the honey garlic glaze over them. Gently toss the meatballs until they are fully coated in the glaze.
Final Baking and Serving Instructions
Return the glazed meatballs to the baking sheet. Bake them for an additional 5 minutes. This sets the glaze nicely. After baking, let them cool slightly. Serve the meatballs on a platter. Drizzle with extra glaze and sprinkle green onions on top for a lovely finish.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Meatball Texture
To get the right meatball texture, binding agents are key. These help hold the meatballs together. The most common binding agent is egg. It adds moisture and helps create a firm shape. Breadcrumbs also play a vital role. They absorb moisture and keep the meatballs tender.
When measuring ground meat, use a kitchen scale for accuracy. One pound gives you about 16 small meatballs. If you prefer bigger meatballs, adjust your cooking time. Aim for a size that fits your taste.
Enhancing the Honey Garlic Flavor
To make your honey garlic glaze just right, balance sweetness and saltiness. You can add more honey for sweetness or soy sauce for salt. Taste the glaze as you cook. This lets you adjust it to your liking.
Consider adding spices like ginger or chili flakes for extra flavor. A little heat can elevate the dish. You can also try adding a splash of lime juice for a tangy twist.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs pair well with rice or steamed vegetables. They soak up flavors and make the meal complete. Serve them on a colorful platter for a fun look.
For a creative touch, skewers work great. Slide the meatballs onto skewers and serve as appetizers. This makes them easy to grab and eat. You can drizzle extra glaze over them for added flavor.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh garlic and herbs for maximum flavor in your meatballs.
- Keep Them Uniform: Make sure all meatballs are the same size for even cooking and consistent texture.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer; meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- Customize the Glaze: Feel free to add chili flakes or ginger to the glaze for an extra kick of flavor.

Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily swap out the meat in this recipe. Ground chicken or turkey works great. If you want a plant-based option, try using lentils or chickpeas. They give a nice texture and flavor.
For gluten-free needs, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs. There are many brands available. You can also make your own from gluten-free bread. Just dry it out and crush it.
Different Flavor Profiles
Want to spice things up? Try adding ginger or chili flakes to the mix. This adds warmth and a kick. You can also change the sauce. Teriyaki or sweet chili sauce can bring a fun twist. Just mix them in with the honey garlic glaze.
Cooking Methods
You can cook these meatballs in different ways. Stovetop cooking gives a nice sear, while oven baking is easy and hands-off. If you have a slow cooker, you can let them simmer in the glaze. It makes them super tender. An air fryer is also a good choice. It cooks them quickly and gives a nice crisp outside.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your honey garlic glazed meatballs fresh, store them in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This method helps retain their flavor and texture. Aim to eat them within three to four days for the best taste. If you do not have an airtight container, use a zip-top bag. Flatten the bag to remove air before sealing.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze both unbaked and baked meatballs. For unbaked meatballs, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. This method helps prevent sticking. For baked meatballs, allow them to cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Tips
To reheat baked meatballs, the oven is best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. This keeps them moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. For quick reheating, use the microwave. Heat in short bursts to avoid drying them out. Enjoy your delicious meatballs with ease!
FAQs
How long do meatballs take to bake?
Meatballs bake for 15 to 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). They should be golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef and 165°F (74°C) for turkey.
Can I make honey garlic meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare honey garlic meatballs ahead of time. Form the meatballs and place them on a baking sheet. Cover them and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just be sure to thaw them before baking.
What sides pair well with honey garlic glazed meatballs?
Many sides go well with honey garlic glazed meatballs. Here are some popular choices:
– Steamed rice
– Garlic bread
– Roasted vegetables
– Salad with a light dressing
– Mashed potatoes
Is it possible to use a different glaze?
Absolutely! You can try different glazes for varied flavors. Here are a few ideas:
– Teriyaki sauce for a sweet and savory taste
– Sweet chili sauce for a spicy kick
– Barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor
Experiment and find your favorite!
This guide covered how to make honey garlic meatballs, from selecting ingredients to serving. You learned about key components like ground meat, a honey glaze, and tasty garnishes. Remember the tips for perfect texture and variations to suit your tastes. You can enjoy them fresh or save leftovers. With this simple recipe, you can impress at your next meal or gathering. Now, go delight your friends and family with these flavorful bite
Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs
Delicious meatballs coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 40 minutes mins
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- to taste salt and pepper
- 0.5 cup honey
- 0.25 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- for garnish green onions, sliced
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
While the meatballs are baking, prepare the honey garlic glaze. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir over medium heat until the mixture comes to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and place them in a large bowl. Pour the honey garlic glaze over them and gently toss until the meatballs are well coated.
Return the glazed meatballs to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 5 minutes to set the glaze.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Serve the meatballs on a platter, drizzled with extra glaze and sprinkled with sesame seeds and green onions for a pop of color.
Keyword appetizer, honey garlic, meatballs
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