These honey sriracha meatballs are a sweet and spicy treat! Made with ground meat and a yummy sauce, they are perfect for a party or a cozy dinner.
I love how easy they are to whip up. Just bake, glaze, and serve! Plus, they disappear fast—everyone wants seconds, even that friend who says they’re on a diet! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds rich flavor to your meatballs. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. A mix of beef and pork is also tasty if you want more depth.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs. If gluten-free, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. I often use panko for an extra crunch!
Honey: This sweetens the sauce. Maple syrup can be a great substitute if you want a different flavor. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for sweetness.
Sriracha: This gives the dish its heat. Feel free to swap in your favorite hot sauce or use a milder option like sweet chili sauce if you want less spice.
How Can You Ensure Your Meatballs Are Juicy and Not Dry?
To keep meatballs juicy, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Just blend until combined. Using breadcrumbs and an egg helps retain moisture. Bake at a steady temperature to prevent drying out.
- Form and place meatballs gently without compacting them too much.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time; 15-20 minutes is usually perfect!
Honey Sriracha Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (white parts)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Honey Sriracha Sauce:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup sriracha sauce (adjust to heat preference)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions (green parts)
- Toasted sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. Quick and easy, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or fun gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This will make cleanup a breeze!
2. Make the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, green onions’ white parts, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until everything just comes together—no need to overmix!
3. Form the Meatballs:
Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs evenly on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
4. Bake:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through. A quick check with a meat thermometer should read 160°F (70°C) for beef.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the meatballs bake, grab a small saucepan. Over medium heat, whisk together the honey, sriracha, soy sauce, minced garlic, vinegar, and ginger (if using). Let it heat up until it just starts to simmer.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Once simmering, add the cornstarch mixed with water to the sauce. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens up nicely. Once thickened, remove it from the heat and set aside.
7. Coat the Meatballs:
When the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the honey sriracha sauce over them and gently toss to coat them evenly. Get every meatball nice and shiny!
8. Serve:
To serve, place the glazed meatballs over a bed of rice or quinoa. Top with chopped green onion greens and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for that extra yummy touch.
Enjoy your sticky, sweet, and spicy Honey Sriracha Meatballs!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is delicious, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. A mix of beef and pork also adds great flavor!
How Can I Adjust the Heat Level of the Sauce?
You can easily modify the spiciness by adjusting the amount of sriracha in the sauce. If you prefer it milder, start with less sriracha and gradually add until it reaches your desired heat level.
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover them tightly to keep them fresh.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
