These Mongolian Beef Meatballs are quick, tasty, and full of flavor! Made with ground beef, soy sauce, and a hint of ginger, they pack a punch in just 30 minutes.
I love how they’re perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun party snack. Plus, they smell amazing while cooking, and your taste buds will thank you later! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is perfect for meatballs, but you can replace it with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor might be slightly different.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer using plain breadcrumbs, but you could use panko for a crunchier texture. If you’re gluten-free, try crushed gluten-free crackers or rolled oats instead.
Green Onions: These add a fresh flavor, but if you can’t find them, use shallots or chives. Both can give a nice hint of onion taste without overpowering the dish.
Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch if you like some heat; otherwise, you can skip them. For a milder spice, try using black pepper instead.
How Can I Ensure My Meatballs Are Juicy and Well-Formed?
Mixing the meatball ingredients is crucial for the right texture. Don’t overmix, as this can make them tough. Combine gently until just mixed. Form the meatballs about 1 inch wide for even cooking.
- Use your hands lightly to form balls; they should hold together but not be packed too tightly.
- Bake in a preheated oven to brown them without drying out.
Letting them rest for a few minutes after baking helps keep them juicy when combined with the sauce. Enjoy making your meatballs with these tips!
30-Minute Mongolian Beef Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mongolian Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
- Steamed broccoli
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Extra green onions, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, making the total time around 30 minutes. Quick, easy, and full of flavor—perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Using your hands, mix everything together until it’s well combined. This is where the flavors come together for your tasty meatballs!
2. Prepping for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, form the beef mixture into meatballs, each about 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. Baking the Meatballs:
Once the oven is ready, bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned. You can check one by cutting it in half to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
4. Whipping Up the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, let’s prepare the Mongolian sauce! In a medium saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, water, sesame oil, and optional red pepper flakes. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
5. Coating the Meatballs:
When the meatballs are finished baking, carefully transfer them into the saucepan with the Mongolian sauce. Gently toss the meatballs to coat them in that delicious, sweet, and savory sauce!
6. Serving the Dish:
Now it’s time to serve your meal! Place some cooked white rice on the plate, add a serving of steamed broccoli, and top it off with the coated meatballs. For the finishing touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and some extra chopped green onions on top.
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and savor your quick and delicious Mongolian beef meatballs! This recipe is sure to be a family favorite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that the meatballs may be slightly less rich, so you might want to add a touch more seasoning or a couple of extra tablespoons of soy sauce to enhance the flavor.
How to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They reheat well in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. If you’d like to store them longer, consider freezing them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the Mongolian sauce ahead of time! Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. When you’re ready to use it, simply reheat it on the stovetop. You may need to add a splash of water if it thickens too much after refrigeration.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can substitute with crushed crackers or even rolled oats. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds. Just remember, the binding ability might vary a bit, so adjust the amount if necessary to achieve the right texture!
