WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Are you ready to impress your family with a dish that’s both easy and delicious? Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs are the perfect treat to satisfy your cravings. They’re sweet, savory, and so simple to make. In this post, I’ll walk you through the ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to make your meatballs perfect every time. Let’s dive into this tasty adventure together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses everyday ingredients that are easy to find, making it accessible for everyone.
- Flavorful Glaze: The honey garlic glaze adds a delightful sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the meatballs perfectly.
- Versatile Dish: These meatballs can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even in a sandwich, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
List of Main Ingredients
To make honey garlic glazed meatballs, gather these key ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 large egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
These ingredients blend together to create juicy meatballs with a sweet and savory glaze.
Optional Garnishes
Garnishes add a nice touch to your meatballs. Here are a few options to consider:
– Fresh chopped parsley
– Sesame seeds
– Sliced green onions
These garnishes enhance the look and flavor of your dish.
Substitutions (Ground beef/turkey alternatives)
If you want to change the meat, use these alternatives:
– Ground chicken for a lighter option
– Ground pork for a richer flavor
– Lentils for a vegetarian choice
These options keep the recipe tasty while catering to different diets.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key for cooking the meatballs evenly. While the oven heats, grab a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, the egg, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use your hands to blend everything well. Then, roll the mixture into small balls, about one inch wide. Place these meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them.
Cooking Method
Bake the meatballs in your preheated oven for 18-20 minutes. You want them to be golden brown outside and fully cooked inside. Check for doneness by cutting one open; it should have no pink inside. This step ensures that they are safe to eat and taste great.
Glazing Process
While your meatballs bake, it’s time to make the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Heat this over medium heat and stir until it starts bubbling. Then, take the cornstarch mixed with water and add it to the saucepan. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the glaze thickens. Once your meatballs are done baking, place them in a large mixing bowl and pour the thick glaze over them. Gently toss until the meatballs are well coated. Enjoy them warm!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Meatball Texture
To make great meatballs, use the right mix of ingredients. Ground beef or turkey gives a nice flavor. Adding breadcrumbs keeps the meatballs moist and light. The Parmesan cheese adds richness. Always mix gently so your meatballs stay tender. Over-mixing can make them tough. Aim for golf ball-sized meatballs, about one inch wide.
Enhancing Flavor in the Glaze
The glaze is key to these meatballs. Honey brings sweetness, while soy sauce adds depth. Rice vinegar helps balance the flavors. For extra flavor, try adding ginger or chili flakes. Sesame oil gives a nice nutty touch. Make sure to stir the glaze as it heats. This helps blend all the flavors well. Thicken it for a saucy, sticky finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the meatballs. Watch them closely in the oven. They should be golden brown, not dry. Another mistake is not mixing the glaze enough. If you skip stirring, the flavors won’t blend well. Lastly, don’t skip the garnishes! They add color and flavor. Fresh parsley or sesame seeds make a big difference.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley can significantly enhance the flavor of your meatballs, giving them a vibrant taste that dried herbs simply can’t match.
- Control the Size: Make sure all meatballs are uniform in size, about 1 inch in diameter, so they cook evenly and are easy to serve.
- Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a healthier or different flavor profile.
- Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the glaze for a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the honey.

Variations
Healthier Options
You can make this dish lighter by using ground turkey or chicken. These meats are lower in fat but still tasty. Just be aware that turkey and chicken can dry out faster than beef. To keep them moist, add a bit more honey or a splash of broth to the mix. Ground chicken or turkey will still soak up that delicious honey garlic glaze.
Flavor Variations
Want to spice things up? You can add red pepper flakes for heat or sriracha for a kick. If you prefer a sweeter taste, add a splash of orange juice or zest to the glaze. You can also try teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a fun twist. Each flavor change gives you a new way to enjoy these meatballs.
Cooking Methods
You have options when it comes to cooking. A slow cooker is great for busy days. Just mix the meatballs, pour in the glaze, and let it cook on low for several hours. This method makes them extra tender. If you prefer, you can cook them on the stovetop in a skillet. Brown them first, then add the glaze. This way, you can enjoy the rich flavors in less time.
Serving Suggestions
Best Side Dishes to Pair
Honey garlic glazed meatballs shine on their own but pair well with sides. Here are some great options:
– Steamed rice or fried rice: Both soak up the sweet glaze.
– Roasted vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers add crunch.
– Noodles: Serve with plain or stir-fried noodles for a filling meal.
– Salad: A fresh green salad adds a nice balance to the dish.
Creative Serving Ideas
Serving your honey garlic glazed meatballs can be fun! Here are some creative ideas:
– Skewers: Thread meatballs on sticks for easy eating at parties.
– Sliders: Place meatballs in small buns for tasty sliders.
– Taco-style: Use tortillas and top with meatballs, slaw, and sauce.
– Over grains: Serve on a bed of quinoa or farro for a healthy twist.
Meal Prepping with Glazed Meatballs
These meatballs are perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to do it:
– Batch cook: Make a double batch to save time.
– Store properly: Place cooled meatballs in airtight containers.
– Refrigerate: They last up to four days in the fridge.
– Freezing: Freeze meatballs for up to three months. Just thaw before reheating.
Using these ideas, you can enjoy honey garlic glazed meatballs in many ways!
FAQs
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked?
You can tell meatballs are done when they are golden brown. Use a meat thermometer for safety. The inside should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef and 165°F (74°C) for turkey. If you cut one open, it should be no longer pink inside. The juices should run clear. This ensures they are safe to eat and taste great.
Can I freeze honey garlic glazed meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze these meatballs! Let them cool completely before freezing. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to three months. This is great for quick meals later!
What’s the best way to reheat leftover meatballs?
For the best results, reheat meatballs in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water to keep them moist. Enjoy your tasty treat!
In this post, we explored every aspect of making delicious glazed meatballs. We covered the main ingredients, preparation steps, and helpful tips for perfect texture and flavor. You learned about variations, including healthier options and different cooking methods. Keep these tips in mind to avoid common mistakes and serve your meatballs with the best pairings. With practice, you’ll master this dish and impress everyone at your table. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and making it your ow
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 Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- to taste salt and pepper
- 0.25 cup honey
- 0.25 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
Roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
While the meatballs are baking, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir until the mixture starts to bubble.
Add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan, stirring continuously until the glaze thickens (about 2-3 minutes). Remove from heat.
Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the honey garlic glaze over the meatballs and gently toss to coat them evenly with the sauce.
Serve the glazed meatballs warm, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired.
Serve on a platter with extra glaze and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Keyword appetizer, honey garlic, meatballs
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?