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If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances sweetness and savory goodness, look no further than sweet and sticky honey garlic meatballs. This delightful recipe is a crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent choice for various occasions, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings. The combination of tender, flavorful meatballs coated in a luscious honey garlic sauce creates an irresistible dish that both kids and adults will adore.

Sweet and Sticky Honey Garlic Meatballs

Discover the irresistible delight of sweet and sticky honey garlic meatballs! This recipe perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, making it a hit for family gatherings or cozy dinners. With tender meatballs enveloped in a mouthwatering honey garlic sauce, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether served as an appetizer or paired with rice and veggies for a full meal, it’s simple to make and sure to impress. Dive into cooking this crowd-pleasing favorite!
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup finely chopped parsley

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

1/2 cup honey

1/4 cup soy sauce

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch)

1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for a nutty flavor)

Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Meatballs:

    In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

      Shape the Meatballs:

        Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Role the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

          Bake the Meatballs:

            Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/70°C).

              Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:

                While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer.

                  Thicken the Sauce (Optional):

                    If you'd like a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Gradually stir the slurry into the sauce and let it simmer for another minute until it thickens to your desired consistency.

                      Toss the Meatballs:

                        Once the meatballs are baked, transfer them into the saucepan with the honey garlic sauce. Toss gently to coat the meatballs thoroughly in the sauce.

                          Serve:

                            Garnish the meatballs with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately on a bed of rice, alongside stir-fried veggies, or simply as an appetizer!

                              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6