Spicy Honey Garlic Meatballs

Name: Spicy Honey Garlic Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 tbsp sriracha; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp grated fresh ginger

Highlighted under: Family Favorite Comfort Food

These Spicy Honey Garlic Meatballs are a delightful combination of sweet and spicy, perfect for appetizers or a main dish.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-04T06:11:28.642Z

These meatballs bring together the savory flavor of garlic with a sweet honey glaze and a kick of spice, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

        Why You Will Love These Meatballs
        A perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors
Juicy, tender meatballs that are easy to make
Great as an appetizer or a main dish

      

A Flavorful Twist on Classic Meatballs

Meatballs are a beloved dish in many cuisines, often served with a variety of sauces and sides. However, these Spicy Honey Garlic Meatballs take a classic favorite and give it a delightful twist. The combination of honey and sriracha creates an irresistible sweet-and-spicy sauce that elevates the humble meatball to new heights. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, these meatballs will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

The use of fresh ingredients, such as parsley and garlic, not only adds depth of flavor but also contributes to the overall nutrition of the dish. Each bite is packed with the goodness of ground beef, which provides protein, and the wholesome attributes of herbs and spices. This recipe is not just about taste; it’s also about creating a memorable dining experience.

Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing

One of the great things about these Spicy Honey Garlic Meatballs is their versatility. They can be served as a main dish alongside rice or noodles, or as an appetizer at your next party. Whether you’re hosting a game night or a casual get-together, these meatballs will be a hit among guests of all ages. Plus, they are easy to make in larger batches, so you can easily scale the recipe up or down depending on your needs.

Not only are these meatballs delicious, but they are also simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. This makes them an ideal choice for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence but you still want something flavorful and satisfying.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to plan your meals for the week, these Spicy Honey Garlic Meatballs are a fantastic option. They store well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated for a quick lunch or dinner. Pair them with a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that keeps you fueled throughout the day. Meal prepping with these meatballs can save you time while ensuring you have delicious, homemade food ready to enjoy.

Additionally, these meatballs can be frozen for even longer storage. Simply cook them as directed, let them cool, and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw and heat them through, adding the sauce for that freshly made taste.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tbsp sriracha
1 tbsp rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated fresh ginger

Combine all ingredients thoroughly to form meatballs.

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into 1-inch meatballs.

Cook the Meatballs

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.

Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger. Simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine and Serve

Pour the sauce over the cooked meatballs in the skillet. Toss to coat and heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes before serving.

Serve warm with rice or as an appetizer with toothpicks.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, let the meatballs marinate in the sauce for a few hours before serving.

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

To ensure your meatballs are tender and juicy, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Just combine the ingredients until they are well incorporated, and then form the meatballs gently. Overworking the meat can lead to tough meatballs, which is not the desired outcome for this recipe.

Another tip is to use a mix of ground meats, such as beef and pork, for added flavor and moisture. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can also be used, but be cautious as they may require additional seasoning to maintain flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs shine on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of sides. Serve them over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside a vibrant vegetable stir-fry to complement the rich flavors of the sauce. For a more casual setting, consider skewering the meatballs and serving them with toothpicks for easy snacking.

For a delightful twist, try serving the meatballs in a sub roll with melted cheese for a spicy meatball sandwich. Add some fresh greens or a tangy slaw for added crunch and flavor. The possibilities are endless!

Storing and Reheating

To store leftover meatballs, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to three days, making them a great option for meal prep. When reheating, you can use the microwave or stovetop. If using the stovetop, add a splash of water or sauce to prevent them from drying out.

For longer storage, these meatballs can be frozen. Place them in a freezer bag with a bit of sauce to keep them moist. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before enjoying the sweet and spicy goodness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well for a lighter option.

→ How can I adjust the spiciness?

You can reduce the amount of sriracha or add more honey to balance it out.

→ Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.

→ What can I serve with these meatballs?

They pair well with rice, noodles, or can be served as a standalone appetizer.