Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or chicken for a lighter version): This will be the base for your meatballs. Ground beef gives them a rich, juicy texture, but you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: These will keep the meatballs tender and add structure. Fresh breadcrumbs or panko are ideal for a lighter texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, umami flavor that enhances the overall taste of the meatballs.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: A little fresh flavor and a mild oniony taste—perfect for meatballs.
- 1 large egg: To bind everything together and help the meatballs hold their shape.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: You can never go wrong with garlic! It gives the meatballs a savory depth that balances the sweetness of the glaze.
- 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For seasoning the meatballs.
For the Sweet and Spicy Glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey: Sweet, sticky, and perfect for coating the meatballs.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds richness and depth to the sweetness.
- 3 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste): The star of the glaze. It gives the meatballs their signature heat.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a savory, salty element to the glaze that balances the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: For a touch of acidity that brightens up the glaze.
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional, but highly recommended): Adds a fresh, zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with the honey and sriracha.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. You’ll want to bake the meatballs at this temperature to ensure they cook through and develop a nice golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- Ground beef (or chicken)
- Breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- Green onions
- Egg
- Garlic
- Salt and pepper
Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything together until well-combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture—overmixing can result in dense, tough meatballs. Just mix until everything is nicely incorporated.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to form the meatballs. Take about 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced about 1 inch apart. You should end up with around 20 meatballs, depending on the size you make them.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should read 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for chicken or turkey.
Step 5: Make the Sweet and Spicy Glaze
While the meatballs are baking, you can prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine:
- Honey
- Brown sugar
- Sriracha
- Soy sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Grated ginger (optional)
Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the glaze thickens slightly. Keep an eye on it—this can burn quickly if left unattended. Once it’s nice and thick, remove the saucepan from the heat.
Step 6: Coat the Meatballs
When the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the sweet and spicy glaze over the meatballs and gently toss to coat them evenly. Be sure each meatball is fully covered in that sticky, glossy glaze.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 20
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 22g