A finished plate of honey garlic meatballs ready to serve

Honey Garlic Meatballs

Quick Answer

To make Honey Garlic Meatballs, bake tender meatballs first, then toss them in a sauce built around honey and garlic while they are still hot. They land right because the meat stays juicy and the sauce shows up with a purpose.

Jump to Recipe

These honey garlic meatballs bake up tender first, then get tossed in a sticky honey-garlic sauce while they're still hot so it clings properly. They're a good app for game day or a full dinner over rice.

They work as an appetizer or a main dish depending on how you serve them. Toss them in the sauce while hot so it coats evenly.

Prep20 minutes
Cook25 minutes
Total45 minutes
Serves8 servings
DifficultyEasy

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated onion
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons garlic
  • Salt and black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Heat the oven to 425°F and line a sheet pan.
  2. 2Mix the meat, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, salt, and pepper just until combined.
  3. 3Roll into even meatballs and bake until browned and cooked through.
  4. 4Warm the honey and garlic together into a sauce if the title wants a sticky finish.
  5. 5Toss the hot meatballs in the sauce and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

  • Do not overmix or the meatballs tighten up.
  • A scoop helps with even sizing and even cooking.
  • Sauce them hot so the glaze actually grabs on.

Substitutions

Ground turkey works if you add a little olive oil for tenderness.
Panko can replace standard breadcrumbs.
Bake or air fry depending on how quickly you want them on the table.

Storage Instructions

Store refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Make Ahead

Bake the meatballs ahead and sauce them when serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Honey Garlic Meatballs ahead of time?

Yes. Bake the meatballs ahead and sauce them when serving.

How do I store leftover Honey Garlic Meatballs?

Store refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze Honey Garlic Meatballs?

Usually yes. Cool it completely, pack it well, and freeze for up to 2 months if the texture of the dish supports it.

What should I serve with Honey Garlic Meatballs?

Honey Garlic Meatballs works best with simple sides or toppings that support the main texture instead of competing with it.