These Sweet and Savory Glazed Meatballs are a perfect balance of flavors, featuring tender, juicy meatballs coated in a rich, flavorful glaze. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish over rice or noodles, these meatballs are sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it irresistible.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile enough to be served as an appetizer, snack, or main course.
- The glaze adds a deliciously sticky coating that enhances the taste.
- Can be made ahead of time and stored for later use.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef or pork
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Garlic, minced
- Onion, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper
- Soy sauce
- Honey or brown sugar
- Ketchup
- Vinegar
- Worcestershire sauce
- Cornstarch (to thicken the glaze)
- Green onions (for garnish, optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the glaze by combining soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ketchup, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens.
- Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to a pan and coat them with the prepared glaze. Let them simmer for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish with green onions, if desired, and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4–6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Asian-Inspired: Use teriyaki sauce instead of the glaze for a different flavor.
- Turkey or Chicken: Substitute beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Slow Cooker: Cook the meatballs in a slow cooker on low for 4 hours with the glaze for extra tenderness.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs without the glaze for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating and add the glaze when ready to serve.
- Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If needed, add a little water to loosen the glaze.
FAQs
How do I keep meatballs from falling apart?
Using the right ratio of breadcrumbs and eggs helps bind the meatballs together. Avoid overmixing the ingredients.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and bake them in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat them with the glaze before serving.
What is the best way to serve these meatballs?
They can be served as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, store-bought frozen meatballs can be used. Simply heat them and toss them in the glaze.
Can I make this recipe without an oven?
Yes, you can pan-fry the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until cooked through.
How do I thicken the glaze?
Cornstarch mixed with water helps thicken the glaze. Cook it over medium heat until it reaches the desired consistency.
What side dishes pair well with these meatballs?
Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad complement the dish well.
Can I use a different sweetener for the glaze?
Yes, maple syrup or agave syrup can be used as a substitute for honey or brown sugar.
How do I prevent meatballs from drying out?
Do not overcook them, and ensure there is enough fat in the meat mixture to retain moisture.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Conclusion
Sweet and Savory Glazed Meatballs are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, they are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Try this recipe for your next meal or gathering, and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite.
Print
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These glazed meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and coated in a rich sweet and savory sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, they’re a guaranteed hit!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
- Shape into 1-inch meatballs and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes until cooked through.
- In a saucepan, combine barbecue sauce, honey, and soy sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Toss meatballs in the sauce and serve warm.
Notes
- Can be made with turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Serve over rice or mashed potatoes for a full meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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