These Honey Sriracha Meatballs are a perfect combo of sweet and spicy. Juicy meatballs coated in a sticky sauce that packs a flavorful punch make for a delicious treat!
They’re super fun to make and great for parties or just a cozy dinner at home. I love serving them with rice or on skewers for a quick snack that everyone enjoys! ☺️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually use a blend of beef and pork for extra flavor, but you can also try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just remember, leaner meats may result in a less juicy meatball.
Breadcrumbs: Plain breadcrumbs are great, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. They will work similarly and still keep the meatballs together.
Sriracha Sauce: This gives a nice kick, but if you’re sensitive to spice, you could use less or swap in a milder hot sauce. Alternatively, for an extra sweet flavor, barbecue sauce is a tasty switch!
Honey: For a lower-sugar alternative, try agave syrup or maple syrup. They offer similar sweetness and will still make your sauce delicious.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Meatballs?
Cooking meatballs to perfection is all about getting that nice crust on the outside while keeping them juicy inside. Here’s how to do it:
- Before frying, ensure your pan is hot enough by adding oil and letting it heat up for a minute.
- Cook meatballs in batches so they don’t overcrowd the pan. This helps them brown nicely.
- Don’t flip them too soon; let them brown for about 3 minutes before turning.
- The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef/pork to be perfectly cooked.
Remember, a gentle hand while mixing and shaping is key to light and tender meatballs!
Honey Sriracha Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Garnishes:
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
- Fresh lettuce or herbs (optional)
To Serve:
- Steamed white rice or jasmine rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 20 minutes to cook, making it a total of around 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and ground ginger if you’re using it. Mix gently until everything is just combined—the goal is to avoid overmixing, as this keeps your meatballs tender!
2. Form the Meatballs:
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, aiming for about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Once formed, place them on a baking sheet or plate to keep them organized.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the meatballs in batches (don’t crowd the pan!). Cook them until they’re nicely browned on all sides and cooked through, which should take about 8–10 minutes. After they’re done, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, combine honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and the minced garlic. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to blend everything and let it thicken slightly.
5. Coat the Meatballs:
Now, return the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the sauce. Toss them around gently to coat each meatball evenly in the delicious sticky honey Sriracha glaze. Allow them to cook in the sauce for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
6. Serve:
Spoon the glazed meatballs and their sauce over steamed rice in bowls. Don’t forget to garnish generously with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Add some fresh lettuce leaves or herbs on the side for an awesome crunch and color!
Enjoy your deliciously sweet and spicy Honey Sriracha Meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey meatballs may be slightly less juicy than those made with beef or pork, so be careful not to overcook them.
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice as a binder instead. Each alternative adds a unique texture but will still hold your meatballs together nicely!
Can I Adjust the Spice Level of the Sauce?
Yes! Simply use less Sriracha for a milder sauce or increase it for more heat. You can also balance the spice with a bit more honey if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or sauce to avoid drying out.