Sticky Glazed Meatballs
Sticky Glazed Meatballs are tender, juicy meatballs coated in a glossy, sweet-and-savory glaze. Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or served over rice or noodles for a main course, this dish combines bold flavor with an irresistible sticky finish.
- Author: Mariem
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (16-20 small meatballs)
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- For the meatballs:
- Ground beef or pork (or a mix)
- Bread crumbs
- Milk
- Egg
- Garlic (minced)
- Ginger (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- For the sticky glaze:
- Soy sauce
- Honey or brown sugar
- Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Ketchup (or hoisin sauce for variation)
- Garlic (minced)
- Cornstarch (mixed with water, for thickening)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- Green onions (sliced, for garnish, optional)
- In a bowl, mix ground meat, bread crumbs, milk, egg, garlic, ginger (if using), salt, and pepper until combined. Form into small meatballs.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides until cooked through (about 10-12 minutes). Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, combine soy sauce, honey, vinegar, ketchup, and garlic. Bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Return the meatballs to the pan and toss to coat in the sticky glaze. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and set the glaze.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a spicy version, add chili flakes, sriracha, or hot sauce to the glaze.
- Use hoisin sauce or teriyaki sauce in place of ketchup for an Asian-inspired flavor.
- For a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken for the meatballs.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce and breadcrumbs.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: meatballs, sticky glaze, savory, sweet, appetizer, party food, quick recipe