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Do you want to impress your family with a simple yet tasty dish? Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs are the answer! These savory bites pack a punch of flavor and are easy to make. In this post, I’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and clever tips. Soon, you’ll be whipping up this delightful dish with confidence. Let’s dive in and make your meal unforgettable!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and steps, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Deliciously Sweet and Savory: The honey garlic glaze perfectly balances sweetness and umami for a flavor-packed dish.
- Customizable: You can easily substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based alternatives for a healthier option.
- Great for Meal Prep: These meatballs store well in the fridge or freezer, making them an excellent choice for meal prep.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs, gather these ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
– Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Measurements and Substitutions
You can adjust some ingredients for your taste or needs.
– Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.
– Swap breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers if needed.
– Try nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free dish.
– Coconut aminos work great if you want a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Additional Flavor Enhancers
To add more depth to your meatballs, consider these options:
– Add crushed red pepper for heat.
– Mix in some finely chopped onion for extra flavor.
– Include fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique twist.
– Try a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a savory boost.
These tips will help you create a dish that fits your taste and dietary needs. Enjoy crafting your Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key to cooking the meatballs evenly. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze later on.
How to Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Add the chopped parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to combine all the ingredients well.
Now, form small meatballs about 1 inch in size. Place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each one. This helps them cook evenly.
Bake these meatballs in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You want them to be cooked through and brown on the outside.
Cooking the Glaze and Finishing Touches
While the meatballs bake, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, whisk together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil. Heat this mixture over medium heat. Bring it to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes. This step thickens the glaze nicely.
Once the meatballs are done, take them out of the oven. Transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the honey garlic glaze over the meatballs. Gently toss them until they are evenly coated.
Now, arrange the glazed meatballs on a serving platter. If you like, drizzle any leftover glaze on top. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh herbs for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips & Tricks
Pro Tips for Perfect Meatballs
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh parsley and garlic make a big difference.
– Do not overmix the meatball mixture. Just mix until combined for a tender bite.
– Keep meatballs the same size for even cooking. Aim for about 1 inch in diameter.
– For a juicy meatball, use ground beef with some fat. Ground turkey needs extra care to stay moist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Avoid making meatballs too large. They may not cook through properly.
– Do not skip the breadcrumbs. They help hold the meatballs together and add texture.
– Forgetting to preheat the oven leads to uneven cooking. Always preheat for best results.
– Using too much glaze can overwhelm the meatballs. Drizzle just enough to enhance flavor.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve meatballs over rice or noodles for a complete meal. They pair well with both.
– Add a side of steamed vegetables to balance the dish. Broccoli or green beans work well.
– Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
– These meatballs also make great appetizers. Serve with toothpicks for easy eating at gatherings.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Always opt for fresh parsley instead of dried for a brighter flavor in your meatballs.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on your preference, feel free to adjust the amount of honey in the glaze for a sweeter or more savory taste.
- Experiment with Proteins: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of these meatballs, while maintaining the same delicious flavor.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: Consider serving these meatballs with a side of extra honey garlic glaze for dipping to enhance the flavor experience.

Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These options make the dish lighter. If you prefer plant-based meals, try using lentils or chickpeas. Just mash them and mix with the other ingredients. These choices still give good flavor and texture.
Gluten-Free Options
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also replace soy sauce with coconut aminos. This keeps the sweet and salty taste while being safe for gluten-free diets. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
Flavor Enhancements and Additions
Want to spice things up? Add crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for heat. You can also mix in chopped green onions for a fresh bite. If you love citrus, add a splash of lime juice to brighten the flavors. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can add a nice touch, too. Don’t be afraid to play with your favorite flavors!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your leftover honey garlic glazed meatballs, place them in an airtight container. You should refrigerate them within two hours of cooking. They will stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to keep the glaze separate if you want them to stay crisp.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about one hour until firm. Then, 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 to keep track.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen meatballs, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them on medium power for a few minutes. Drizzle some extra glaze on top before serving for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I make Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead. Just prepare the meatballs and glaze as usual. You can store them in the fridge for up to two days. For best results, keep them in an airtight container. You can also freeze the raw meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet first, then freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a bag. When ready to cook, bake them directly from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs?
Honey garlic glazed meatballs pair well with many sides. Here are some tasty options to consider:
– Steamed rice or cauliflower rice
– Noodles or pasta
– A fresh green salad
– Roasted veggies
– Mashed potatoes
These sides add balance to the dish. They also soak up the sauce well.
How do I ensure my meatballs are tender?
To keep your meatballs tender, follow these tips:
– Use a mix of ground beef and ground turkey. This gives flavor and moisture.
– Don’t overmix the meat mixture. Mix just until combined.
– Form the meatballs gently. Avoid packing them too tight.
– Bake them at the right temperature. Baking at 400°F helps them cook evenly.
– Let the meatballs rest after baking. This helps keep them juicy.
Each step helps you create soft and tender meatballs. Enjoy the process and the tasty results!
In this article, we covered the key ingredients for honey garlic glazed meatballs and their measurements. You learned how to make them, with useful tips and tricks to avoid common mistakes. We explored fun variations and how to store, freeze, and reheat leftovers.
Making these meatballs is easy and fun. With these steps, you can impress your friends and family. Try out the recipes and enjoy delicious meals at home. Happy cookin
Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs
Delicious meatballs coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 cup honey
- 0.25 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- to taste sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- to taste fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and brown on the outside.
While the meatballs are baking, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, cooking for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the honey garlic glaze over the meatballs and gently toss to coat them evenly.
Arrange the glazed meatballs on a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top and garnish with sesame seeds and fresh herbs if desired.
Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
Keyword appetizer, honey garlic, meatballs
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