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Honey Garlic Meatballs Savory and Simple Recipe

by on November 30, 2025

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Looking for a delicious and easy meal? Honey Garlic Meatballs are the perfect dish for you! This sweet and savory recipe combines tender meatballs with a sticky, flavorful sauce. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, these meatballs will impress everyone. Follow me as we dive into simple steps and helpful tips to make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Let’s make something tasty together!

For the meatballs, you'll need: - 1 lb (450g) ground beef or chicken - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped - 1 clove garlic, minced - 1 large egg - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste These main components create a tasty base. The meat adds flavor and protein. Breadcrumbs keep the meatballs tender. Parmesan cheese adds a nice richness. Fresh parsley gives a pop of color and freshness. Garlic brings a wonderful aroma, while the egg helps bind everything together. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. For the sauce, gather: - 1/2 cup honey - 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 teaspoon sesame oil - 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) This sauce is where the magic happens. Honey adds sweetness and stickiness. Soy sauce brings saltiness and depth. Rice vinegar adds a bit of tang, balancing the sweetness. Sesame oil gives a nutty flavor. If you like heat, crushed red pepper flakes add a nice kick. You might consider: - Extra chopped parsley for garnish - Sesame seeds for a crunchy topping - Sliced green onions for freshness These optional ingredients can enhance your dish. Parsley adds more color and taste. Sesame seeds give a nice crunch, while green onions bring a fresh bite. Use them to make your dish look great and taste even better. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step helps the meatballs cook evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the meatballs from sticking. In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef or chicken. Add 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs. Then, mix in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped finely. Next, add 1 minced garlic clove, 1 large egg, salt, and pepper to taste. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well until it’s all combined. Take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls. Each meatball should be about 1 inch wide. Place the meatballs on the lined baking sheet. Make sure they have some space between them. Put the baking sheet in the oven. Bake the meatballs for 15 to 20 minutes. They should be golden brown and cooked through. When you press them lightly, they should spring back. While the meatballs bake, grab a small pot. Add 1/2 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. If you like heat, add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Heat the mixture on medium until it simmers. Stir it occasionally to mix well. Once the meatballs finish baking, take them out of the oven. Place them in a large bowl. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the hot meatballs. Toss them gently to coat each meatball evenly with the sauce. If you want extra flavor, put the glazed meatballs back on the baking sheet. Broil them for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch them closely to prevent burning. Serve the sticky honey garlic meatballs warm. Garnish them with extra parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy them as a snack, over rice, or in a slider. To get the best meatball texture, use fresh ground meat. I prefer beef or chicken. Mixing in breadcrumbs helps keep them moist. Parmesan cheese adds flavor and binds the meatballs. Don't overmix the meat; this makes them tough. Instead, mix until just combined. Use wet hands to shape the meatballs. This helps prevent sticking. Aim for even-sized meatballs for consistent cooking. For deeper flavor, add herbs and spices. Fresh parsley adds a nice touch. You can also try adding Italian seasoning or garlic powder. If you like heat, add crushed red pepper flakes. Mix these in with the meatball mixture. For a sweet twist, drizzle honey over the meatballs before baking. This adds a caramelized flavor. Cooking time may vary based on your oven. Generally, bake meatballs for 15 to 20 minutes. Check for doneness by cutting one in half. They should be cooked through and slightly firm. If you want a crispy exterior, broil them for 2-3 minutes after baking. Always keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Enjoy experimenting with these tips! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and parsley. Fresh herbs and spices make a noticeable difference in the taste of your meatballs. Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients for the meatballs, be careful not to overmix. This helps keep them tender and prevents them from becoming tough. Adjust the Heat: If you like it spicy, feel free to increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce. You can also add some sriracha for an extra kick. Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake and glaze them when you're ready to serve. {{image_4}} You can easily swap the ground beef for ground chicken, turkey, or even pork. Each option gives a unique taste and texture. Ground chicken is lighter, while pork offers a bit more fat for rich flavor. Choose what you enjoy most. If you need gluten-free meatballs, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Tamari is a great soy sauce replacement for those avoiding gluten. This keeps the taste intact while ensuring everyone can enjoy the dish. You can boost flavor by adding finely chopped veggies. Try bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can also add a fresh twist. Mix them into the meatball mixture for a colorful and healthy touch. After cooking, let the honey garlic meatballs cool to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating. To freeze the meatballs, first, cool them completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about one hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking. To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat them for about 15-20 minutes until warm. If using a microwave, put the meatballs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat them in short bursts of 30 seconds until hot. Remember to check the center to ensure they are heated through. Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead of time. Prepare them and shape the meatballs. Store them in the fridge for up to two days. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw before cooking! These meatballs pair well with many sides. Try serving them with: - Steamed rice - Noodles - Fresh salad - Roasted vegetables - Mashed potatoes They also make great sliders or appetizers at parties! To change the spice level, you can add or remove crushed red pepper flakes. For less heat, skip them entirely. For more heat, increase the amount. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce for extra kick. Yes, a slow cooker works great for these meatballs. After shaping them, place the meatballs in the cooker. Pour the honey garlic sauce over them. Cook on low for about 6 hours or high for 3 hours. This will keep them juicy and flavorful! This blog provided a simple guide to making honey garlic meatballs. We covered the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting your dish. You learned about variations to suit your taste and the best ways to store leftovers. In closing, these meatballs are easy to prepare and full of flavor. Experiment with different proteins and spices to make them your own. Enjoy the process and share your tasty results!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
  2. Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey and garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that is both sweet and savory, ensuring every bite is delicious.
  3. Customizable: You can easily substitute ground beef for chicken, and adjust the level of heat by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes.
  4. Versatile Serving Options: These meatballs can be served alone as an appetizer, paired with rice, or even used in sliders for a fun twist.

Ingredients

Main Components

For the meatballs, you’ll need:

– 1 lb (450g) ground beef or chicken

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

– 1 clove garlic, minced

– 1 large egg

– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

These main components create a tasty base. The meat adds flavor and protein. Breadcrumbs keep the meatballs tender. Parmesan cheese adds a nice richness. Fresh parsley gives a pop of color and freshness. Garlic brings a wonderful aroma, while the egg helps bind everything together. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors.

Sauce Ingredients

For the sauce, gather:

– 1/2 cup honey

– 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

– 1 teaspoon sesame oil

– 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

This sauce is where the magic happens. Honey adds sweetness and stickiness. Soy sauce brings saltiness and depth. Rice vinegar adds a bit of tang, balancing the sweetness. Sesame oil gives a nutty flavor. If you like heat, crushed red pepper flakes add a nice kick.

Optional Ingredients

You might consider:

– Extra chopped parsley for garnish

– Sesame seeds for a crunchy topping

– Sliced green onions for freshness

These optional ingredients can enhance your dish. Parsley adds more color and taste. Sesame seeds give a nice crunch, while green onions bring a fresh bite. Use them to make your dish look great and taste even better.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step helps the meatballs cook evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the meatballs from sticking.

Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef or chicken. Add 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs. Then, mix in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped finely. Next, add 1 minced garlic clove, 1 large egg, salt, and pepper to taste. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well until it’s all combined.

Shape the Meatballs

Take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls. Each meatball should be about 1 inch wide. Place the meatballs on the lined baking sheet. Make sure they have some space between them.

Bake the Meatballs

Put the baking sheet in the oven. Bake the meatballs for 15 to 20 minutes. They should be golden brown and cooked through. When you press them lightly, they should spring back.

Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

While the meatballs bake, grab a small pot. Add 1/2 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. If you like heat, add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Heat the mixture on medium until it simmers. Stir it occasionally to mix well.

Glaze the Meatballs

Once the meatballs finish baking, take them out of the oven. Place them in a large bowl. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the hot meatballs. Toss them gently to coat each meatball evenly with the sauce.

Serve and Enjoy

If you want extra flavor, put the glazed meatballs back on the baking sheet. Broil them for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch them closely to prevent burning. Serve the sticky honey garlic meatballs warm. Garnish them with extra parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy them as a snack, over rice, or in a slider.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Meatball Texture

To get the best meatball texture, use fresh ground meat. I prefer beef or chicken. Mixing in breadcrumbs helps keep them moist. Parmesan cheese adds flavor and binds the meatballs. Don’t overmix the meat; this makes them tough. Instead, mix until just combined. Use wet hands to shape the meatballs. This helps prevent sticking. Aim for even-sized meatballs for consistent cooking.

Flavor Enhancement Tips

For deeper flavor, add herbs and spices. Fresh parsley adds a nice touch. You can also try adding Italian seasoning or garlic powder. If you like heat, add crushed red pepper flakes. Mix these in with the meatball mixture. For a sweet twist, drizzle honey over the meatballs before baking. This adds a caramelized flavor.

Cooking Time Variations

Cooking time may vary based on your oven. Generally, bake meatballs for 15 to 20 minutes. Check for doneness by cutting one in half. They should be cooked through and slightly firm. If you want a crispy exterior, broil them for 2-3 minutes after baking. Always keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Enjoy experimenting with these tips!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and parsley. Fresh herbs and spices make a noticeable difference in the taste of your meatballs.
  2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients for the meatballs, be careful not to overmix. This helps keep them tender and prevents them from becoming tough.
  3. Adjust the Heat: If you like it spicy, feel free to increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce. You can also add some sriracha for an extra kick.
  4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake and glaze them when you’re ready to serve.

Variations

Different Protein Options

You can easily swap the ground beef for ground chicken, turkey, or even pork. Each option gives a unique taste and texture. Ground chicken is lighter, while pork offers a bit more fat for rich flavor. Choose what you enjoy most.

Gluten-Free Alternatives

If you need gluten-free meatballs, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Tamari is a great soy sauce replacement for those avoiding gluten. This keeps the taste intact while ensuring everyone can enjoy the dish.

Adding Vegetables or Herbs

You can boost flavor by adding finely chopped veggies. Try bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can also add a fresh twist. Mix them into the meatball mixture for a colorful and healthy touch.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

After cooking, let the honey garlic meatballs cool to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze the meatballs, first, cool them completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about one hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat them for about 15-20 minutes until warm. If using a microwave, put the meatballs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat them in short bursts of 30 seconds until hot. Remember to check the center to ensure they are heated through.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs in advance?

Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead of time. Prepare them and shape the meatballs. Store them in the fridge for up to two days. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw before cooking!

What can I serve with honey garlic meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with many sides. Try serving them with:

– Steamed rice

– Noodles

– Fresh salad

– Roasted vegetables

– Mashed potatoes

They also make great sliders or appetizers at parties!

How do I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

To change the spice level, you can add or remove crushed red pepper flakes. For less heat, skip them entirely. For more heat, increase the amount. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce for extra kick.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, a slow cooker works great for these meatballs. After shaping them, place the meatballs in the cooker. Pour the honey garlic sauce over them. Cook on low for about 6 hours or high for 3 hours. This will keep them juicy and flavorful!

This blog provided a simple guide to making honey garlic meatballs. We covered the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting your dish. You learned about variations to suit your taste and the best ways to store leftovers.

In closing, these meatballs are easy to prepare and full of flavor. Experiment with different proteins and spices to make them your own. Enjoy the process and share your tasty result

For the meatballs, you'll need: - 1 lb (450g) ground beef or chicken - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped - 1 clove garlic, minced - 1 large egg - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste These main components create a tasty base. The meat adds flavor and protein. Breadcrumbs keep the meatballs tender. Parmesan cheese adds a nice richness. Fresh parsley gives a pop of color and freshness. Garlic brings a wonderful aroma, while the egg helps bind everything together. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. For the sauce, gather: - 1/2 cup honey - 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 teaspoon sesame oil - 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) This sauce is where the magic happens. Honey adds sweetness and stickiness. Soy sauce brings saltiness and depth. Rice vinegar adds a bit of tang, balancing the sweetness. Sesame oil gives a nutty flavor. If you like heat, crushed red pepper flakes add a nice kick. You might consider: - Extra chopped parsley for garnish - Sesame seeds for a crunchy topping - Sliced green onions for freshness These optional ingredients can enhance your dish. Parsley adds more color and taste. Sesame seeds give a nice crunch, while green onions bring a fresh bite. Use them to make your dish look great and taste even better. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step helps the meatballs cook evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the meatballs from sticking. In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef or chicken. Add 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs. Then, mix in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped finely. Next, add 1 minced garlic clove, 1 large egg, salt, and pepper to taste. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well until it’s all combined. Take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls. Each meatball should be about 1 inch wide. Place the meatballs on the lined baking sheet. Make sure they have some space between them. Put the baking sheet in the oven. Bake the meatballs for 15 to 20 minutes. They should be golden brown and cooked through. When you press them lightly, they should spring back. While the meatballs bake, grab a small pot. Add 1/2 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. If you like heat, add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Heat the mixture on medium until it simmers. Stir it occasionally to mix well. Once the meatballs finish baking, take them out of the oven. Place them in a large bowl. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the hot meatballs. Toss them gently to coat each meatball evenly with the sauce. If you want extra flavor, put the glazed meatballs back on the baking sheet. Broil them for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch them closely to prevent burning. Serve the sticky honey garlic meatballs warm. Garnish them with extra parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy them as a snack, over rice, or in a slider. To get the best meatball texture, use fresh ground meat. I prefer beef or chicken. Mixing in breadcrumbs helps keep them moist. Parmesan cheese adds flavor and binds the meatballs. Don't overmix the meat; this makes them tough. Instead, mix until just combined. Use wet hands to shape the meatballs. This helps prevent sticking. Aim for even-sized meatballs for consistent cooking. For deeper flavor, add herbs and spices. Fresh parsley adds a nice touch. You can also try adding Italian seasoning or garlic powder. If you like heat, add crushed red pepper flakes. Mix these in with the meatball mixture. For a sweet twist, drizzle honey over the meatballs before baking. This adds a caramelized flavor. Cooking time may vary based on your oven. Generally, bake meatballs for 15 to 20 minutes. Check for doneness by cutting one in half. They should be cooked through and slightly firm. If you want a crispy exterior, broil them for 2-3 minutes after baking. Always keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Enjoy experimenting with these tips! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and parsley. Fresh herbs and spices make a noticeable difference in the taste of your meatballs. Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients for the meatballs, be careful not to overmix. This helps keep them tender and prevents them from becoming tough. Adjust the Heat: If you like it spicy, feel free to increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce. You can also add some sriracha for an extra kick. Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake and glaze them when you're ready to serve. {{image_4}} You can easily swap the ground beef for ground chicken, turkey, or even pork. Each option gives a unique taste and texture. Ground chicken is lighter, while pork offers a bit more fat for rich flavor. Choose what you enjoy most. If you need gluten-free meatballs, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Tamari is a great soy sauce replacement for those avoiding gluten. This keeps the taste intact while ensuring everyone can enjoy the dish. You can boost flavor by adding finely chopped veggies. Try bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can also add a fresh twist. Mix them into the meatball mixture for a colorful and healthy touch. After cooking, let the honey garlic meatballs cool to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating. To freeze the meatballs, first, cool them completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about one hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking. To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat them for about 15-20 minutes until warm. If using a microwave, put the meatballs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat them in short bursts of 30 seconds until hot. Remember to check the center to ensure they are heated through. Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead of time. Prepare them and shape the meatballs. Store them in the fridge for up to two days. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw before cooking! These meatballs pair well with many sides. Try serving them with: - Steamed rice - Noodles - Fresh salad - Roasted vegetables - Mashed potatoes They also make great sliders or appetizers at parties! To change the spice level, you can add or remove crushed red pepper flakes. For less heat, skip them entirely. For more heat, increase the amount. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce for extra kick. Yes, a slow cooker works great for these meatballs. After shaping them, place the meatballs in the cooker. Pour the honey garlic sauce over them. Cook on low for about 6 hours or high for 3 hours. This will keep them juicy and flavorful! This blog provided a simple guide to making honey garlic meatballs. We covered the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting your dish. You learned about variations to suit your taste and the best ways to store leftovers. In closing, these meatballs are easy to prepare and full of flavor. Experiment with different proteins and spices to make them your own. Enjoy the process and share your tasty results!

Sticky Honey Garlic Meatballs

Delicious meatballs coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce, perfect as an appetizer or main dish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or chicken
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • to taste salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the 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, parsley, garlic, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  • Take small portions of the mixture and form them into even balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.
  • While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce in a small saucepan. Combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over medium heat until it begins to simmer, stirring occasionally.
  • After baking, remove the meatballs from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce over the hot meatballs and gently toss until evenly coated.
  • Return the glazed meatballs to the baking sheet and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra caramelization, monitoring closely to prevent burning.
  • Serve the sticky honey garlic meatballs warm, garnished with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy as an appetizer, over rice, or in sliders.

Notes

Serve warm and garnish with extra parsley and sesame seeds for presentation.
Keyword appetizer, honey garlic, meatballs

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