Teriyaki Meatballs
Imagine the aroma of savory meatballs simmering in a rich, sweet, and tangy teriyaki sauce wafting through your kitchen. These Teriyaki Meatballs are not only a delightful treat for your taste buds but also a great way to incorporate lean protein and wholesome ingredients into your meals. Whether you’re serving them over rice, zoodles, or alongside steamed veggies, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
Teriyaki Meatballs are a fantastic option for busy weeknights and meal prepping. They are quick to whip up, packed with flavor, and can easily be customized to suit your dietary preferences. Using ground turkey makes these meatballs a leaner alternative to traditional beef or pork, while the sweet and savory teriyaki sauce brings it all together in a deliciously satisfying way. Plus, the addition of pineapple and fresh ginger gives it a tropical twist that will transport your taste buds straight to a sunny paradise.
What We’re Using
- 1 pound ground turkey: A lean protein that is perfect for meatballs.
- 1 cup bread crumbs, almond flour, or ground oats: For binding and texture; choose gluten-free options if needed.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the meatballs together.
- 1 clove finely minced or crushed garlic: Adds aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Brings a fresh and zesty note to the meatballs.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Optional, for a hint of heat.
- ½ cup soy sauce or tamari: The main ingredient for the teriyaki sauce.
- ½ cup water: To balance the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch or tapioca starch: Thickens the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Gives a natural sweetness to the sauce.
- ¼ cup rice vinegar: Adds tanginess.
- ¼ cup pineapple juice: For a sweet and tropical flavor.
- 1 clove finely minced or crushed garlic: Added to the sauce for extra flavor.
- 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger: Complements the sweetness of the sauce.
- ½ cup drained pineapple tidbits: Adds texture and sweetness.
- Your choice of rice, ramen noodles, cauliflower rice, or zoodles: For serving.
- About 1 pound of broccoli or other vegetables: Steamed or sautéed for a nutritious side.
- Thinly sliced scallions, optional: For garnish.
What’s in the Gear List
- Mixing bowl: For combining the meatball ingredients.
- Baking sheet: For cooking the meatballs in the oven.
- Whisk: To mix the sauce ingredients thoroughly.
- Medium saucepan: For simmering the teriyaki sauce.
- Meat thermometer: To ensure meatballs are cooked through.
Teriyaki Meatballs: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your meatballs cook evenly and get a nice golden exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs (or almond flour), egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps with cleanup and prevents sticking.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. You can check their doneness with a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, prepare the teriyaki sauce. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce (or tamari), water, cornstarch (or tapioca starch), honey, rice vinegar, pineapple juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 6: Combine Meatballs and Sauce
Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and add them to the saucepan with the teriyaki sauce. Gently toss to coat the meatballs evenly in the sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the teriyaki meatballs over your choice of rice, noodles, or zoodles. Add steamed broccoli or your favorite veggies on the side, and sprinkle with sliced scallions for an extra touch of flavor.
How to Make It Lighter
- Use ground chicken or lean beef instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Reduce the amount of honey or use a sugar substitute to cut calories.
- Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb option.
- Opt for a low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos to reduce sodium intake.
Errors to Dodge
- Overmixing the meatball mixture can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined.
- Not preheating the oven properly may result in uneven cooking.
- Using too much cornstarch can make the sauce overly thick; start with less and adjust as needed.
- Forgetting to drain the pineapple tidbits can add excess liquid to your sauce.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
If you have leftovers, store the teriyaki meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the meatballs for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Ask & Learn
Can I make these meatballs in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the meatballs ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheat them with the sauce before serving.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce alternative, coconut aminos work beautifully in this recipe and provide a slightly sweeter taste.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Feel free to use ground chicken, beef, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you prefer a meat-free option.
What should I serve with these meatballs?
These teriyaki meatballs are delicious served over rice, ramen noodles, or zoodles. Pair with steamed vegetables for a complete meal!
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Make It Tonight
Now that you have all the ingredients and steps laid out, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your family around the table, serve up these flavorful Teriyaki Meatballs, and enjoy a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this dish becomes a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Happy cooking!
Teriyaki Meatballs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for even cooking.
- Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture - In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, egg, garlic, ginger, salt, and red pepper flakes. Mix until just combined.
- Step 3: Shape the Meatballs - Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Step 4: Bake the Meatballs - Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
- Step 5: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce - In a saucepan, whisk together soy sauce, water, cornstarch, honey, vinegar, juice, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer until thickened.
- Step 6: Combine Meatballs and Sauce - Add baked meatballs to the sauce and gently toss to coat.
- Step 7: Serve and Enjoy - Serve over rice or noodles with steamed veggies and garnish with scallions.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze meatballs for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
- Use ground chicken or lean beef as alternatives to turkey.
