These Mongolian Beef Meatballs are tasty little bites packed with flavor! They come together quickly in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
I love how the sweet and savory sauce makes these meatballs shine. They’re great over rice or noodles! Plus, who can resist a meatball? They’re like little balls of happiness! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef gives a juicy meatball. If you’re looking for leaner options, turkey or chicken works well too. Just adjust cooking time, as they can cook faster.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer plain breadcrumbs, but if you’re out, crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs can also add a nice crunch. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be a good substitute for gluten-sensitive folks.
Green Onions: These add flavor and freshness. If you don’t have them, chopped shallots or regular onions can be used, but they’ll change the taste slightly.
Soy Sauce: For a lower-sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce. You can also try tamari (a gluten-free soy sauce) or coconut aminos for a different flavor!
Sesame Oil: This adds rich, nutty flavor. If you can’t find it, use olive oil, though it won’t have the same taste. Light sesame oil can also be substituted, but it’s less intense.
How Can I Make My Meatballs Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to tasty meatballs is in how you mix your ingredients. Don’t overmix, as this can make them tough. Combine gently until just mixed, and shape them quickly into balls.
- Ensure the meatballs are about 1 inch in size for even cooking.
- Let them rest a few minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
Don’t skip the baking step! Baking the meatballs is a healthier option and helps them develop a nice crust. Use a baking sheet lined with parchment for easier cleanup.
30-Minute Mongolian Beef Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp minced ginger
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Optional: red pepper flakes for spice
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked white or jasmine rice
- 2 cups steamed or roasted broccoli
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Sliced green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes, including about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make these delicious Mongolian beef meatballs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’d like, you can also line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, egg, minced garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You can use your hands or a spoon—whichever you prefer!
3. Form the Meatballs:
Now, take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the baking sheet you prepared earlier, spaced out so they have room to cook evenly.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Put the meatballs in the oven and bake them for about 15-20 minutes. They should be cooked through and nicely browned by the time they’re done.
5. Make the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, you can prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth (or water), and sesame oil. Heat it over medium heat until it simmers.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Next, stir in the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan to help thicken the sauce. Keep cooking for about a minute until it becomes nice and thick. If you like it spicy, feel free to add some red pepper flakes!
7. Toss the Meatballs in the Sauce:
Once the meatballs are done baking, take them out of the oven and toss them in the sauce until they are fully coated. This is where the magic really happens!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, place the Mongolian beef meatballs over a bed of cooked rice. Add some steamed or roasted broccoli on the side for a healthy touch.
9. Add Finishing Touches:
Before you dig in, garnish your dish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a pop of flavor and color. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as turkey may cook a bit faster. Keep an eye on the meatballs to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make the Sauce Spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes to the sauce or even a splash of Sriracha or chili garlic sauce for an extra kick. Adjust to your taste preference, and always start with a small amount to avoid overwhelming the dish!
Can I Prepare the Meatballs in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them well to prevent drying out. If you have leftovers, they freeze nicely—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Should I Serve with Mongolian Beef Meatballs?
This dish pairs perfectly with steamed or roasted broccoli as well as jasmine or white rice. You could also add a side of stir-fried vegetables or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal!
