This Mongolian Beef Meatballs recipe is quick and tasty! In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy juicy meatballs covered in a sweet and savory sauce that will make you smile.
I love how easy it is to whip these up, especially on busy days. Plus, they pair perfectly with rice or noodles. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The star of the dish! You can use beef with 80/20 fat content for juicy meatballs. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too.
Breadcrumbs: I like using regular breadcrumbs, but panko adds extra crunch! If you want to make this gluten-free, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oatmeal instead!
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness. If you’re avoiding soy, tamari or coconut aminos are great alternatives!
Brown Sugar: This sweetener balances the sauce. If you’re cutting sugar, coconut sugar or honey can replace it, but remember honey can change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Are Tender and Juicy?
The key to perfect meatballs is not to overwork the meat mixture. Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep them tender.
- Shape the meatballs gently without packing them too tightly.
- Cook on medium heat so they brown without burning.
- Allow them to rest a minute before serving; this helps retain moisture!
Easy 30-Minute Mongolian Beef Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Mongolian Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
- Steamed or roasted broccoli
- Chopped green onions (scallions)
- Sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a warm and inviting meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is combined well. Try not to overwork the meat to keep your meatballs tender!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate until ready to cook.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs carefully and cook them until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but not browned. This adds delicious flavor to the sauce!
5. Combine Sauce Ingredients:
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, cornstarch, and additional ground ginger until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the garlic.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens. You’ll notice it becoming glossy and slightly sticky.
7. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet. Toss them gently in the sauce so they’re coated evenly. Let them cook for an additional 2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through and flavorful.
8. Serve:
Serve your Mongolian beef meatballs over a bed of cooked white rice. Add steamed or roasted broccoli on the side for a healthy touch.
9. Finish with Garnishes:
Top your dish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy your meal!
This dish combines tender beef meatballs with a sweet and savory Mongolian-inspired sauce, making it a wonderful meal ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it may have a slightly different flavor profile, so season well to enhance taste.
How Can I Make the Sauce Spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce while it’s cooking. Start with a small amount and adjust to your heat preference!
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before frying for even cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of water while reheating to loosen it up.
