If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances sweetness and savory flavor, look no further than these honey garlic pork meatballs. They’re an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or even as a tasty appetizer for gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a dish that everyone at the table will rave about.
These meatballs are tender and juicy, infused with a delightful honey garlic glaze that adds a sticky, sweet touch to each bite. They are incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour, making them a great option for busy cooks who still want to impress.
Whether served over rice, tossed in a salad, or enjoyed on their own, these honey garlic pork meatballs are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Understanding Honey Garlic Pork Meatballs
Honey garlic pork meatballs offer a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, making them a staple choice for various occasions. Whether you are hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or looking for a snack during game day, these meatballs fit the bill beautifully.
The essence of this dish lies in its balance. The sweetness from honey complements the rich, savory notes of ground pork, enhanced further by the aromatic garlic. This combination not only tantalizes the taste buds but also creates a dish that is visually appealing, with each meatball glistening under a sticky glaze.
Ingredients That Shine
A humble list of ingredients contributes to the robust flavor profile of honey garlic pork meatballs. Ground pork serves as the base, providing a juicy and tender texture. When combined with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, the result is a meatball that holds its shape while remaining moist.
Incorporating fresh green onions adds a hint of freshness and a pop of color, while garlic infuses the meatballs with its signature aromatic flavor. The glaze, made from honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil, brings everything together, creating a satisfying coating that enhances each bite.
Preparation Made Simple
Getting these meatballs ready is a straightforward process that can be completed in under an hour. Begin by preheating your oven and preparing a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This ensures that the meatballs cook evenly and release easily once they are done.
Mixing the meatball ingredients is a quick step that requires just a bowl and a spoon. Once combined, shaping the mixture into small, uniform balls allows for even cooking and a consistent texture across the board.
Cooking to Perfection
The baking process is key to achieving the desired doneness and golden brown exterior. As the meatballs bake, they not only cook through but also develop a slightly crisp surface that contrasts beautifully with the sticky glaze.
Simultaneously, preparing the honey garlic sauce on the stovetop allows for a meld of flavors that heightens the dish’s appeal. A quick simmer is all it takes to transform the sauce into a thick, delicious coating for the meatballs.
Serving Suggestions
Once coated in the luscious honey garlic sauce, these meatballs can be served in a variety of ways. They shine as a standalone appetizer at gatherings, where guests can help themselves to the sticky, flavorful bites.
For a more substantial meal, serving them over rice or incorporating them into a fresh salad adds a satisfying touch. Pairing with chopsticks not only enhances the dining experience but also invites a playful element to the meal.
Nutrition and Serving Size
These honey garlic pork meatballs offer a balanced option for those looking to enjoy flavorful dishes without compromising on nutrition. With approximately 300 calories per serving, they provide a good source of protein and moderate fat content, making them a viable option for various dietary preferences.
With four servings in one batch, it’s easy to prepare enough for a family dinner or a small gathering, ensuring that everyone can savor the delightful combination of flavors that these meatballs offer.
Delicious Honey Garlic Pork Meatballs Recipe
These pork meatballs are bursting with flavor and coated in a rich honey garlic sauce that marries perfectly with their savory taste. They are sure to be a hit with both family and friends, bringing together the sweetness of honey and the aromatic garlic for an unforgettable combination.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, green onions, beaten egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, combine honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for an additional minute.
- Glaze the Meatballs: Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and toss them in the honey garlic sauce until they are fully coated.
- Serve: Serve the honey garlic pork meatballs warm, garnished with additional green onions if desired. Enjoy them over rice, in a wrap, or as an appetizer on their own.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 300kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
