These Mongolian Beef Meatballs are quick and tasty! Juicy meatballs are coated in a sweet and savory sauce, making them perfect for a cozy meal. In just 30 minutes, dinner is served!
Trust me, these meatballs will disappear fast! I like to serve them over rice to soak up that yummy sauce. Enjoy every bite, and watch out for sneaky dinner guests—they’ll be eyeing your plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. For a leaner option, you could use ground turkey or chicken. They still work great but may change the flavor slightly.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. For a softer texture, try soaked bread instead!
Green Onions: They add freshness and a mild onion flavor. If you don’t have green onions, chives or diced regular onion can do the trick, but adjust the amounts as they can be stronger in flavor.
Soy Sauce: This is key for umami. For a gluten-free alternative, use tamari. Also, low-sodium soy sauce can help cut back on salt.
How Do I Make Meatballs That Are Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your meatballs juicy, don’t overmix the ingredients. Combine them just until everything is blended. Fat in the ground beef also helps retain moisture, so avoid using very lean meat.
- Preheat your oven well to help brown the meatballs.
- Shape meatballs gently and consistently for even cooking.
- Try not to bake them too long; 15-20 minutes is usually perfect!
How to Make 30-Minute Mongolian Beef Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
- Steamed broccoli
- Sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so you can have your meal ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C). To make cleanup easier, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep your meatballs from sticking!
2. Make the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, egg, minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. Don’t overmix—just enough to blend it!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Next, scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball, about 1 inch in diameter. Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the meatballs for about 15 to 20 minutes. You want them to be cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, it’s time to make the sauce! In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, water, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir this mixture frequently until it thickens, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
6. Coat the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are fully cooked, take them out of the oven. Carefully pour the sauce over the meatballs and gently toss them until they are evenly coated in that delicious sauce.
7. Serve Your Meal:
It’s time to enjoy your meal! Serve the meatballs over a nice bed of cooked white rice and alongside some steamed broccoli. Don’t forget to sprinkle sesame seeds and a few extra green onions on top for garnish!
8. Enjoy!
Dig into your tasty 30-minute Mongolian Beef Meatballs—it’s a hearty meal that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Ground Chicken or Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can be substituted for beef. Just remember that these meats may produce a slightly different texture and flavor. Consider adding a bit more seasoning or breadcrumbs to help maintain moisture and taste.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even ground almonds as a substitute. Just make sure to adjust the quantity as necessary to achieve a good meatball consistency!
How Should I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Can I Make the Sauce in Advance?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it gently on the stove before pouring it over the meatballs to serve!
