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Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs Tasty and Easy Recipe

by on September 25, 2025

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Are you ready to whip up a delicious treat that’s easy and fun? Honey garlic glazed meatballs offer a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is simple, yet it delivers a taste that will impress anyone. With easy ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll master these meatballs in no time. Let’s dive into how you can make this tasty dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option) - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 large egg - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - 1/4 cup honey - 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred) - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 teaspoon sesame oil - Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish The main ingredients create a rich flavor in these meatballs. Ground beef gives a hearty taste, while ground turkey makes them lighter. Breadcrumbs and cheese add texture. Garlic and ginger bring warmth, and honey adds a sweet touch. - Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley - Diced bell peppers for added crunch - Sriracha for extra heat You can easily change the flavor. Fresh herbs add brightness, and diced bell peppers provide fun texture. If you like spice, sriracha gives a nice kick. - Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option. - Swap honey with maple syrup for a vegan alternative. - Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free soy sauce. These swaps let everyone enjoy this dish. People with dietary needs can still savor the taste without missing out. Always check labels for hidden allergens. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps keep the meatballs from sticking. In a large bowl, mix together 1 pound of ground beef or turkey, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Add in 1 large egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of minced ginger. If you want some spice, toss in 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Season well with salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything until it’s well combined. Once your mixture is ready, shape it into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size. Place them on the lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each. This helps them cook evenly. Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they look golden-brown and are cooked through. While the meatballs bake, let’s make the tasty glaze. In a small saucepan, whisk together 1/4 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Heat this mixture over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook for about 3-5 minutes. Stir it occasionally until the glaze thickens a bit. After the meatballs are done, transfer them to a bowl. Drizzle the honey garlic glaze over them and toss gently to coat. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavor! To make the best meatballs, start with quality meat. I often use ground beef, but ground turkey works too. Mix the meat well with breadcrumbs, cheese, egg, and spices. This step helps the meatballs hold together. When forming the balls, keep them about one inch wide. This size cooks evenly and stays juicy. Don't crowd them on the baking sheet. Give them space to brown nicely. You can store leftover meatballs in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for three to four days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Place them on a baking sheet first, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, use the oven or microwave. In the oven, heat at 350°F for about 10 minutes. In the microwave, heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. To boost flavor, consider adding extras to your mixture. Chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro brighten the dish. For texture, you can mix in some finely chopped veggies. Carrots or bell peppers add a nice crunch. You can also try different glazes. A bit of chili sauce can add a fun kick. Remember, the glaze can change the whole dish, so be creative! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor in your meatballs and glaze. Don't Overmix: When combining the meatball ingredients, mix just until combined to keep them tender and avoid a tough texture. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey in the glaze depending on your sweetness preference. Experiment with Proteins: Try using ground chicken, pork, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile. {{image_4}} You can swap ground beef for ground turkey. This change cuts fat and makes the dish lighter. Turkey keeps the meatballs juicy and tasty. The flavor stays rich, even with less fat. You may not even notice the difference! Want some heat? Just add more red pepper flakes! You can also use spicy sauces like Sriracha. If you prefer it mild, leave out the red pepper. Adjust the spice to fit your taste. Everyone loves personalizing their food! These meatballs taste great with rice or noodles. You can serve them over a bed of steamed veggies. For a fun twist, place them in a sub roll for a meatball sandwich. Don’t forget to add a side salad for freshness! You can also use them as party appetizers. Just keep them warm in a slow cooker. Enjoy the sweet and savory goodness! To keep your honey garlic glazed meatballs fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a piece of wax paper between layers to avoid sticking. This method helps keep the glaze intact. Always let the meatballs cool before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the meatballs cool completely. Then, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about one hour. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to label the bag with the date. In the fridge, cooked meatballs stay good for about three to four days. To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes. If you choose the microwave, heat them in short bursts, checking often. This way, they warm evenly and stay moist. Yes, you can swap ground beef for ground turkey. Ground chicken also works well. Each type adds its own flavor and texture. Turkey is lighter but still tasty. Adjust cooking time if you use different meats. Check the color and texture of the meatballs. They should be golden brown outside. Use a meat thermometer for best results. The center should reach 165°F (74°C). If you cut one open, it should be firm and no longer pink. Serve these meatballs with rice or noodles for a full meal. They pair well with steamed veggies. Try a fresh salad for a light side. You can also use them as a fun appetizer at parties. In this post, we explored how to make honey garlic glazed meatballs. We looked at key ingredients, with options for variations and dietary needs. The step-by-step instructions ensure you can prepare these tasty meatballs easily. We also shared tips for perfecting your dish and storing leftovers. With this knowledge, you can make a meal that your family will love. Enjoy experimenting with your own twists on this recipe!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Easy Preparation: This recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time!
  2. Flavorful Glaze: The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the meatballs to another level. It’s sweet, savory, and utterly irresistible!
  3. Customizable Options: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences by swapping ground beef for turkey or adjusting the spice level.
  4. Great for Entertaining: These glazed meatballs make an excellent appetizer for gatherings or parties. They’re sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs

– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 large egg

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

– 1/4 cup honey

– 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)

– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

– 1 teaspoon sesame oil

– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

The main ingredients create a rich flavor in these meatballs. Ground beef gives a hearty taste, while ground turkey makes them lighter. Breadcrumbs and cheese add texture. Garlic and ginger bring warmth, and honey adds a sweet touch.

Optional Ingredients for Variations

– Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley

– Diced bell peppers for added crunch

– Sriracha for extra heat

You can easily change the flavor. Fresh herbs add brightness, and diced bell peppers provide fun texture. If you like spice, sriracha gives a nice kick.

Substitutions and Dietary Considerations

– Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

– Swap honey with maple syrup for a vegan alternative.

– Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free soy sauce.

These swaps let everyone enjoy this dish. People with dietary needs can still savor the taste without missing out. Always check labels for hidden allergens.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Meatball Mixture

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps keep the meatballs from sticking. In a large bowl, mix together 1 pound of ground beef or turkey, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Add in 1 large egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of minced ginger. If you want some spice, toss in 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Season well with salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything until it’s well combined.

Baking the Meatballs

Once your mixture is ready, shape it into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size. Place them on the lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each. This helps them cook evenly. Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they look golden-brown and are cooked through.

Making the Honey Garlic Glaze

While the meatballs bake, let’s make the tasty glaze. In a small saucepan, whisk together 1/4 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Heat this mixture over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook for about 3-5 minutes. Stir it occasionally until the glaze thickens a bit. After the meatballs are done, transfer them to a bowl. Drizzle the honey garlic glaze over them and toss gently to coat. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavor!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Perfect Meatballs

To make the best meatballs, start with quality meat. I often use ground beef, but ground turkey works too. Mix the meat well with breadcrumbs, cheese, egg, and spices. This step helps the meatballs hold together. When forming the balls, keep them about one inch wide. This size cooks evenly and stays juicy. Don’t crowd them on the baking sheet. Give them space to brown nicely.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

You can store leftover meatballs in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for three to four days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Place them on a baking sheet first, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, use the oven or microwave. In the oven, heat at 350°F for about 10 minutes. In the microwave, heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes.

Enhancing Flavor and Texture

To boost flavor, consider adding extras to your mixture. Chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro brighten the dish. For texture, you can mix in some finely chopped veggies. Carrots or bell peppers add a nice crunch. You can also try different glazes. A bit of chili sauce can add a fun kick. Remember, the glaze can change the whole dish, so be creative!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor in your meatballs and glaze.
  2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the meatball ingredients, mix just until combined to keep them tender and avoid a tough texture.
  3. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey in the glaze depending on your sweetness preference.
  4. Experiment with Proteins: Try using ground chicken, pork, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.

Variations

Make It Lighter: Using Ground Turkey

You can swap ground beef for ground turkey. This change cuts fat and makes the dish lighter. Turkey keeps the meatballs juicy and tasty. The flavor stays rich, even with less fat. You may not even notice the difference!

Spicy Kick: Adjusting Heat Levels

Want some heat? Just add more red pepper flakes! You can also use spicy sauces like Sriracha. If you prefer it mild, leave out the red pepper. Adjust the spice to fit your taste. Everyone loves personalizing their food!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These meatballs taste great with rice or noodles. You can serve them over a bed of steamed veggies. For a fun twist, place them in a sub roll for a meatball sandwich. Don’t forget to add a side salad for freshness! You can also use them as party appetizers. Just keep them warm in a slow cooker. Enjoy the sweet and savory goodness!

Storage Info

Best Practices for Storing Meatballs

To keep your honey garlic glazed meatballs fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a piece of wax paper between layers to avoid sticking. This method helps keep the glaze intact. Always let the meatballs cool before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

Freezing Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the meatballs cool completely. Then, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about one hour. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to label the bag with the date.

Shelf Life and Reheating Tips

In the fridge, cooked meatballs stay good for about three to four days. To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes. If you choose the microwave, heat them in short bursts, checking often. This way, they warm evenly and stay moist.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can swap ground beef for ground turkey. Ground chicken also works well. Each type adds its own flavor and texture. Turkey is lighter but still tasty. Adjust cooking time if you use different meats.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?

Check the color and texture of the meatballs. They should be golden brown outside. Use a meat thermometer for best results. The center should reach 165°F (74°C). If you cut one open, it should be firm and no longer pink.

What can I serve with honey garlic glazed meatballs?

Serve these meatballs with rice or noodles for a full meal. They pair well with steamed veggies. Try a fresh salad for a light side. You can also use them as a fun appetizer at parties.

In this post, we explored how to make honey garlic glazed meatballs. We looked at key ingredients, with options for variations and dietary needs. The step-by-step instructions ensure you can prepare these tasty meatballs easily. We also shared tips for perfecting your dish and storing leftovers.

With this knowledge, you can make a meal that your family will love. Enjoy experimenting with your own twists on this recip

- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option) - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 large egg - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - 1/4 cup honey - 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred) - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 teaspoon sesame oil - Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish The main ingredients create a rich flavor in these meatballs. Ground beef gives a hearty taste, while ground turkey makes them lighter. Breadcrumbs and cheese add texture. Garlic and ginger bring warmth, and honey adds a sweet touch. - Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley - Diced bell peppers for added crunch - Sriracha for extra heat You can easily change the flavor. Fresh herbs add brightness, and diced bell peppers provide fun texture. If you like spice, sriracha gives a nice kick. - Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option. - Swap honey with maple syrup for a vegan alternative. - Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free soy sauce. These swaps let everyone enjoy this dish. People with dietary needs can still savor the taste without missing out. Always check labels for hidden allergens. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps keep the meatballs from sticking. In a large bowl, mix together 1 pound of ground beef or turkey, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Add in 1 large egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of minced ginger. If you want some spice, toss in 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Season well with salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything until it’s well combined. Once your mixture is ready, shape it into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size. Place them on the lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each. This helps them cook evenly. Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they look golden-brown and are cooked through. While the meatballs bake, let’s make the tasty glaze. In a small saucepan, whisk together 1/4 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Heat this mixture over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook for about 3-5 minutes. Stir it occasionally until the glaze thickens a bit. After the meatballs are done, transfer them to a bowl. Drizzle the honey garlic glaze over them and toss gently to coat. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavor! To make the best meatballs, start with quality meat. I often use ground beef, but ground turkey works too. Mix the meat well with breadcrumbs, cheese, egg, and spices. This step helps the meatballs hold together. When forming the balls, keep them about one inch wide. This size cooks evenly and stays juicy. Don't crowd them on the baking sheet. Give them space to brown nicely. You can store leftover meatballs in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for three to four days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Place them on a baking sheet first, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, use the oven or microwave. In the oven, heat at 350°F for about 10 minutes. In the microwave, heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. To boost flavor, consider adding extras to your mixture. Chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro brighten the dish. For texture, you can mix in some finely chopped veggies. Carrots or bell peppers add a nice crunch. You can also try different glazes. A bit of chili sauce can add a fun kick. Remember, the glaze can change the whole dish, so be creative! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor in your meatballs and glaze. Don't Overmix: When combining the meatball ingredients, mix just until combined to keep them tender and avoid a tough texture. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey in the glaze depending on your sweetness preference. Experiment with Proteins: Try using ground chicken, pork, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile. {{image_4}} You can swap ground beef for ground turkey. This change cuts fat and makes the dish lighter. Turkey keeps the meatballs juicy and tasty. The flavor stays rich, even with less fat. You may not even notice the difference! Want some heat? Just add more red pepper flakes! You can also use spicy sauces like Sriracha. If you prefer it mild, leave out the red pepper. Adjust the spice to fit your taste. Everyone loves personalizing their food! These meatballs taste great with rice or noodles. You can serve them over a bed of steamed veggies. For a fun twist, place them in a sub roll for a meatball sandwich. Don’t forget to add a side salad for freshness! You can also use them as party appetizers. Just keep them warm in a slow cooker. Enjoy the sweet and savory goodness! To keep your honey garlic glazed meatballs fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a piece of wax paper between layers to avoid sticking. This method helps keep the glaze intact. Always let the meatballs cool before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the meatballs cool completely. Then, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about one hour. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to label the bag with the date. In the fridge, cooked meatballs stay good for about three to four days. To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes. If you choose the microwave, heat them in short bursts, checking often. This way, they warm evenly and stay moist. Yes, you can swap ground beef for ground turkey. Ground chicken also works well. Each type adds its own flavor and texture. Turkey is lighter but still tasty. Adjust cooking time if you use different meats. Check the color and texture of the meatballs. They should be golden brown outside. Use a meat thermometer for best results. The center should reach 165°F (74°C). If you cut one open, it should be firm and no longer pink. Serve these meatballs with rice or noodles for a full meal. They pair well with steamed veggies. Try a fresh salad for a light side. You can also use them as a fun appetizer at parties. In this post, we explored how to make honey garlic glazed meatballs. We looked at key ingredients, with options for variations and dietary needs. The step-by-step instructions ensure you can prepare these tasty meatballs easily. We also shared tips for perfecting your dish and storing leftovers. With this knowledge, you can make a meal that your family will love. Enjoy experimenting with your own twists on this recipe!

Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs

Delicious meatballs coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • to taste salt
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper
  • 0.25 cup honey
  • 0.25 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • for garnish sesame seeds
  • for garnish chopped green onions

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, and minced ginger. If you like some heat, add the red pepper flakes. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix using your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  • Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet with a little space between each meatball to allow for even cooking.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and have a beautiful golden-brown color on the outside.
  • While the meatballs are baking, prepare the delicious honey garlic glaze. In a small saucepan, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Place the saucepan over medium heat, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze slightly thickens.
  • Once the meatballs are out of the oven, transfer them to a large bowl. Drizzle your prepared honey garlic glaze over the meatballs and toss gently to ensure they are evenly coated in the sticky goodness.
  • Serve the glazed meatballs hot, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a handful of chopped green onions for an added crunch and fresh flavor.

Notes

For a lighter option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey.
Keyword appetizer, honey garlic, meatballs

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