Dinner

Sweet and Savory Glazed Meatballs

Name: Sweet and Savory Glazed Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 500g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying); 1/4 cup ketchup; 3 tablespoons brown sugar or honey; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or rice vinegar); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional); 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (slurry)

ByMariem September 27, 2025

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Sweet and Savory Glazed Meatballs are tender, juicy meatballs simmered or tossed in a rich, sticky glaze made from a blend of sweeteners, soy sauce, and aromatics. They make the perfect appetizer, party snack, or main course served over rice or noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These glazed meatballs are both comforting and flavor-packed, offering a perfect blend of sweetness, tang, and umami. The meatballs stay moist and flavorful inside while developing a sticky, caramelized exterior from the glaze. They’re easy to prepare in large batches and are sure to be a hit at dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatballs:

Ground beef or ground turkey
Breadcrumbs
Egg
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely grated or minced
Milk
Salt and pepper
Soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce

For the Glaze:

Soy sauce
Brown sugar or honey
Garlic, minced
Ginger, grated
Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
Ketchup or hoisin sauce
Cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water)
Optional: red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat

Directions

Prepare the meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, milk, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined.
Form and bake: Roll the mixture into 1½-inch balls and place on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes or until fully cooked. Alternatively, pan-fry or air-fry.
Make the glaze: In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, ketchup, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer. Add cornstarch slurry and stir until thickened.
Glaze the meatballs: Add baked meatballs to the glaze. Toss gently until fully coated and simmer for a few minutes to absorb the flavor.
Serve: Garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds. Serve hot as an appetizer or with rice or noodles as a main dish.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use ground chicken or pork for a different flavor profile.
Add chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro to the meat mixture for freshness.
Make it spicy by adding chili paste or hot sauce to the glaze.
Serve over mashed potatoes or in lettuce wraps for variety.
Make mini meatballs for party appetizers or skewers.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water if the glaze thickens too much.
Freezing: Freeze cooked, glazed meatballs for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

FAQs

What type of ground meat works best?

Ground beef, turkey, chicken, or pork all work well depending on your taste and dietary needs.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can form and chill the raw meatballs a day in advance or fully cook and store them for reheating.

Are these meatballs gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari in place of soy sauce to make them gluten-free.

Can I fry the meatballs instead of baking?

Yes, pan-frying works well and adds a slightly crisp exterior.

How do I prevent dry meatballs?

Do not overmix the meat, and include enough moisture from milk and egg.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales easily and is great for batch cooking or parties.

How spicy is the glaze?

The base glaze is sweet and mild. You can add spice to taste.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, add cooked meatballs and glaze to a slow cooker and heat on low until warmed through.

What side dishes pair well with glazed meatballs?

Steamed rice, noodles, stir-fried vegetables, or even a fresh salad.

How do I thicken the glaze?

Use a cornstarch slurry. Let the sauce simmer after adding it to achieve a thick, glossy finish.

Conclusion

Sweet and Savory Glazed Meatballs are an effortless yet impressive dish that suits many occasions — from weeknight meals to holiday parties. With their tender texture and sticky-sweet coating, these meatballs offer comfort and flavor in every bite. Simple to prepare and endlessly adaptable, this recipe is one you’ll return to again and again.

Mariem