Sweet & Savory Ginger-Glazed Meatballs

Name: Sweet & Savory Ginger-Glazed Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp ground black pepper; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp water

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 20 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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If you're in the mood for a dish that combines the warmth of home-cooked comfort with a hint of Asian flair, these Sweet & Savory Ginger-Glazed Meatballs are just what you need. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe delivers juicy meatballs coated in a luscious ginger glaze that balances sweet and savory flavors beautifully.

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Ingredients for Sweet & Savory Ginger-Glazed Meatballs

Ground beef forms the base of our meatballs, providing a rich and hearty flavor. Breadcrumbs help bind the mixture and keep the meatballs tender, while milk adds moisture. A large egg helps hold everything together. Scallions and garlic bring a fresh, aromatic taste, and ginger adds that unmistakable zing. Salt and black pepper season the meatballs just right.

The soy sauce forms the base of our glaze, bringing that savory umami kick. Honey sweetens the pot, while rice vinegar adds a touch of acidity to balance the flavors. Cornstarch and water combine to thicken the glaze to a perfect consistency.

Tips & Tricks

For extra flavor, let the meatball mix sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before forming into balls.
If you're out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers make a great substitute.
Double the glaze if you like extra saucy meatballs or want some for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs pair wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or a simple stir-fried noodle dish. For a lighter option, serve them over a bed of sautéed greens like bok choy or spinach. They also make perfect party appetizers; just set out some toothpicks for easy serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?: Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and makes for a lighter version of this dish.
How long do these meatballs keep?: They'll stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to three months.
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?: Yes! Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free as well.

Sweet & Savory Ginger-Glazed Meatballs Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, get your oven preheating to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper — this makes cleanup a breeze. In a large bowl, toss in your ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, scallions, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together with your hands or a wooden spoon until everything's nicely combined. You’re aiming for an even distribution of ingredients without overmixing.

Now, roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs — about the size of a ping pong ball. Place them evenly on your prepared baking sheet. Once your oven's ready, pop them in and let them bake for 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for a nice, browned exterior and cooked-through centers.

While the meatballs are baking, it's time to whip up that delicious ginger glaze. In a small saucepan, combine your soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Stir in the cornstarch and water mixture, and cook over medium heat. Keep stirring until it thickens — this should take just a couple of minutes.

Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to a bowl and pour over the glaze. Toss them gently to get every meatball nicely coated. Serve them warm, and if you like, sprinkle some extra scallions on top for a bit of color and freshness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick to make — ready in just about 30 minutes.
A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly.
Perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup milk

1 large egg

1/4 cup finely chopped scallions

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 inch ginger, grated

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp ground black pepper

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup honey

2 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tbsp cornstarch

1 tbsp water

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, scallions, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

3. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

5. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the glaze thickens.