Sticky Honey Garlic Meatballs Recipe

Imagine a plate piled high with tender, juicy meatballs cloaked in a glossy, sticky-sweet sauce that balances savory, garlicky goodness with the floral note of honey. These Honey Garlic Meatballs are pure weeknight magic – quick to pull together, deeply satisfying, and guaranteed to have everyone scooping up every last drop of that irresistible sauce.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Honey Garlic Meatballs is how short and sweet the ingredient list is! Each ingredient has a job to do, from the juicy meatballs themselves to the golden honey and a splash of soy – delivering big flavor in every bite.

• Meatballs (400g): Homemade, store-bought, beef or pork – use your favorite! Tender and flavorful is key.
• Beef stock (½ cup): Adds a base of savory depth to the sauce; chicken stock works in a pinch.
• Corn flour (1 Tbsp): Also called cornstarch – this little bit thickens your sauce until it’s beautifully glossy and clingy.
• Honey (¼ cup): Brings natural sweetness and lets the garlic shine. Use a mild honey, if possible.
• Soy sauce (¼ cup): For that salty, umami kick that balances the honey. Regular or gluten-free both work.
• Lemon juice (1 Tbsp): A splash of acid brightens the whole dish – rice vinegar is a tasty alternative.
• Garlic (3 cloves): Freshly minced garlic infuses that bold, aromatic punch – don’t skimp!
• Chilli flakes (¼ tsp, optional): Totally optional, but perfect for a subtle heat that lifts the sauce.

Variations

Honey Garlic Meatballs are made for riffing! You can swap ingredients, dial up the spice, or even give them a unique twist to fit any mood, craving, or dietary need.

• Make it Gluten-Free: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce, and double-check that your meatballs are free from wheat or breadcrumbs.
• Spicier Kick: Add extra chilli flakes or a squirt of Sriracha for a bolder, hotter honey-garlic sauce.
• Meat-Free Version: Try your favorite plant-based meatballs – the sauce is just as dreamy on veggie alternatives!
• Add Veggies: Toss in sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli right into the pan for a dinner-in-a-pan option.

How to Make Honey Garlic Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs & Sides

If you have homemade baked meatballs ready to go, you’re already halfway there! If not, whip up a batch with ground beef and pork for extra juicy results. While you’re at it, steam some rice and prep your favorite veggies – think vibrant broccoli, broccolini, or snap-fresh carrots.

Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

In a bowl or jug, whisk together beef stock and corn flour until smooth – no lumps! Add honey, soy sauce, fresh garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of chilli flakes, then whisk again until you get a silky, fragrant mixture. Give it a quick taste; if your honey is extra bold, a spoonful of brown sugar can mellow its intensity.

Step 3: Simmer & Thicken

Heat a large pan over medium heat, nestle in your meatballs, and warm them through. Pour your honey-garlic sauce over the top, turning to coat every meatball in that gorgeous glaze. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens and hugs each meatball. Taste and adjust seasoning if you like.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

Scoop the meatballs and generous spoonfuls of sauce over hot steamed rice and bright vegetables. Don’t forget to drizzle extra sauce over everything—this is what dreams are made of!

How to Serve Honey Garlic Meatballs

Garnishes

To finish, a sprinkle of thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds does wonders—adding freshness, crunch, and a pretty pop of color that makes Honey Garlic Meatballs look as mouthwatering as they taste.

Side Dishes

Steamed basmati or jasmine rice is a classic pairing, soaking up every bit of sweet and garlicky sauce. For more color and crunch, serve with a heap of steamed or stir-fried veggies—broccoli, broccolini, snow peas, or capsicum are all fabulous partners.

Creative Ways to Present

Hosting a party? Place toothpicks in each Honey Garlic Meatball and set them out as bite-sized appetizers. Or, toss them with noodles and rainbow veggies for a fun Asian-style bowl. You can even serve them over cauliflower rice for a lighter take.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Honey Garlic Meatballs keep beautifully in the fridge! Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and don’t forget to keep any extra sauce for drizzling over tomorrow’s lunch.

Freezing

You can freeze both the meatballs and sauce together—just cool completely, pack into a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the Honey Garlic Meatballs and sauce in a covered saucepan over low heat, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a recipe that’s both wildly flavorful and effortlessly family-friendly, these Honey Garlic Meatballs are it. I hope you’ll give them a try—and don’t be surprised if they become your new comfort food favorite, too!

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