These Honey Sriracha Meatballs are a tasty mix of sweet and spicy! Made with ground meat, honey, and sriracha sauce, they’re perfect for parties or a cozy dinner.
Who doesn’t love meatballs? They’re like tiny flavor bombs! I like to serve them over rice or toss them in a sandwich—so good! 🍚🥪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: You can use any type of ground meat like beef, pork, chicken, or turkey. For a lighter option, I often lean towards ground chicken or turkey. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, consider substituting with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils.
Bread Crumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the mixture together. If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. You can even use oats if you’re in a pinch!
Sriracha Sauce: This sauce gives the meatballs their spicy kick! If you prefer milder flavors, you can reduce the amount or use a different hot sauce. For a twist, try mixing in a bit of chili garlic sauce for added texture.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, balancing the heat from the sriracha. You could substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar if honey isn’t on hand or if you want a vegan option.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Moist and Tender?
Getting meatballs just right can be tricky! Here are some tips to keep them moist and tender:
- Use a mix of ground meats for extra flavor and moisture.
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; gently combine ingredients to keep them tender.
- Shape the meatballs evenly for consistent cooking. Aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter!
- Fry them in batches to give each meatball enough space to brown, which adds flavor.
Following these tips will help you achieve delicious, juicy meatballs every time! Enjoy the cooking process, and don’t forget to have fun with your flavors!
Honey Sriracha Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground meat (beef, pork, chicken, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Honey Sriracha Sauce:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a total of around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty appetizer when having friends over!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently combine everything—be careful not to overmix, or your meatballs may end up tough!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
With your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Try to make them evenly sized so they cook at the same rate.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
Using the same skillet (to save on cleanup!), combine honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and ginger (if using). Stir and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Once the sauce is simmering, stir in the cornstarch mixed with water. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens nicely.
6. Coat the Meatballs:
Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet and toss them in the sauce until they are well-coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with thinly sliced green onions or sesame seeds if you like. Serve the meatballs hot as an appetizer or over rice or noodles for a complete meal!
These Honey Sriracha Meatballs are sure to be a hit—happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great option for a lighter version of these meatballs. Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier than beef, so adding a bit more milk or a splash of olive oil can help keep them moist.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the sriracha sauce in the recipe. Start with a couple of tablespoons, taste it, and then add more gradually until you reach your desired spice level. Alternatively, you can mix sriracha with a little ketchup to soften its heat.
What Should I Do with Leftover Meatballs?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave, or sauté them in a skillet with a little sauce until heated through. If you want to freeze them, place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag, where they can last for up to 3 months!
Can I Make These Meatballs in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the meatball mixture and shape the meatballs a day ahead. Just cover them and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. The sauce can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it before tossing it with the cooked meatballs!
