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Sweet and Spicy Honey Garlic Meatballs: The Perfect Balance of Heat, Sweetness, and Savory Flavor


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  • Author: Diva
  • Total Time: 40 mins
  • Yield: 20 meatballs
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Tender, juicy meatballs coated in a sticky, sweet, and spicy honey garlic glaze — the perfect appetizer or main dish that’s bursting with bold, irresistible flavor.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for browning)
  • For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp sriracha or chili sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
  • 2 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and soy sauce. Mix just until combined.
  3. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
  5. While the meatballs bake, make the sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, sriracha, and vinegar. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  7. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and toss until fully coated.
  8. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  9. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

  • Adjust sriracha for more or less heat depending on preference.
  • These can be made ahead and reheated — the flavor deepens over time.
  • Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice for a main course.
  • Turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter option.
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking + Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian Fusion