Teriyaki Beef Meatballs Recipe

This teriyaki beef meatballs recipe is a delightful mix of savory flavors that will excite your taste buds. The meatballs are seasoned to perfection and coated with a sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy teriyaki sauce. This dish is perfect for dinner parties or a cozy family dinner.

Photos of Teriyaki Beef Meatballs Recipe

Most ingredients for this recipe are common and readily available in most households. However, a few items such as Mirin, Sake, and Panko breadcrumbs might need a special trip to the supermarket. Mirin is a sweet rice wine used in Japanese cooking to add a subtle sweetness. Sake, a Japanese rice wine, adds a distinct flavor. And Panko breadcrumbs, which are Japanese-style breadcrumbs, give a light and crispy texture.

Ingredients for Teriyaki Beef Meatballs

Beef mince: Ground beef that forms the base of the meatballs.

Panko breadcrumbs: These are Japanese breadcrumbs, gives a light and crispy texture to the meatballs.

Eggs: Acts as a binding agent to hold the meatballs together.

Scallions: Adds a mild onion flavor.

Garlic cloves: Gives an aromatic and savory taste.

Soy sauce: Adds a savory, umami flavor.

Cooking sake: Gives a distinct flavor to the meatballs.

Sesame oil: Used in the teriyaki sauce for a nutty flavor.

Mirin: A sweet rice wine that adds a subtle sweetness to the sauce.

Sake: Japanese rice wine that adds a distinct flavor to the sauce.

Brown sugar: Sweetens the sauce.

Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce.

Sriracha: Gives a spicy kick to the sauce.

Sesame seeds: Used as a garnish, adds a crunch and nutty flavor.

Green onion: Garnish that adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.

One reader, Ailina Swank says:

I absolutely loved the teriyaki beef meatballs recipe! The meatballs were juicy and flavorful, and the teriyaki sauce was the perfect balance of sweet and savory. It was a hit at my dinner party, and I'll definitely be making it again. Highly recommend trying it out!

Ailina Swank

Techniques Required for Making Teriyaki Beef Meatballs

How to prepare meatballs: Mix together beef mince, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, cooking sake, salt, and pepper until well-combined. Shape into balls and bake until golden browned and cooked through.

How to make teriyaki sauce: Whisk together sesame oil, garlic, soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, and water in a pot. Simmer, then add a cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce thickens.

How to coat meatballs with teriyaki sauce: Pour ¾ of the teriyaki sauce over the cooked meatballs and toss gently to evenly coat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

How To Make Teriyaki Beef Meatballs

Have your meatballs Asian-style with this recipe. Ground beef is seasoned in a myriad of sauces and herbs and served with a teriyaki-style sauce.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 12 minutes

Total: 27 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Meatballs:

2lbsbeef minceground, or pork, chicken, turkey
¾cupPanko breadcrumbsor regular breadcrumbs
2eggs
2scallionsor green onions, finely chopped
2garlic clovesminced
2tbspsoy saucelow sodium
1tbspcooking Sakeor Shaoxing, Chinese wine or dry sherry
salt and pepperpinch, to taste

For Teriyaki Sauce:

1tspsesame oil
2tspgarlic clovesminced
⅓cupsoy saucelow sodium
¼cupmirin
¼cupsake
¼cupbrown sugar
½cupwater
1tbspcornstarchmixed with 2 tbsp of water
1tspSrirachaor more, adjust to your preference of spice

To Serve:

Sesame seeds
1greenonionfinely sliced

Instructions

Preheat oven to 200 degrees C or 400 degrees F.

Meatballs:

Mix together all of the meatball ingredients in a large bowl until well-combined. Spoon out 1½-inch of meat mixture with a cookie scoop (or tablespoon). Shape into balls and place onto 2 large baking sheets or trays lined with baking or parchment paper.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden browned and cooked through.
While the meatballs are baking, make the sauce.

Sauce:

Heat a medium-sized pot over medium-high heat. Whisk all of the sauce ingredients together (except cornstarch and water mixture) in the pan until well blended.
Bring to a simmer, pour the cornstarch mixture in and give it a quick good mix until it dissolves into the sauce.
Continue cooking for about 5 minutes or until sauce thickens, while stirring occasionally to prevent burning or sticking on the bottom of the pan.

Coat:

When meatballs have finished cooking, pour ¾ of the sauce over them and toss gently to evenly coat. Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving dish or tray.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions (if desired), and serve warm with toothpicks or mini forks, and with remaining sauce for dipping.

Nutrition

Calories: 76.83kcal
Fat: 4.91g
Saturated Fat: 1.81g
Trans Fat: 0.27g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.13g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.22g
Carbohydrates: 2.43g
Fiber: 0.13g
Sugar: 0.96g
Protein: 4.58g
Cholesterol: 24.10mg
Sodium: 181.01mg
Calcium: 11.25mg
Potassium: 84.73mg
Iron: 0.58mg
Vitamin A: 4.94µg
Vitamin C: 0.30mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Teriyaki Beef Meatballs

When shaping the meatballs, try to keep them all the same size. This ensures they all cook at the same rate and are done at the same time. If some are larger than others, they may require additional cooking time. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon can help achieve uniform size. Also, don't pack the meatballs too tightly. A lighter touch results in a more tender meatball.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Teriyaki Beef Meatballs

Prep ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture the night before and refrigerate. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Use a cookie scoop: Use a cookie scoop to portion out the meat mixture for even-sized meatballs, saving time on shaping them by hand.

Double the batch: Make a larger batch and freeze half for future use. This way, you'll have ready-to-cook meatballs on hand for a quick meal.

Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather and organize all the ingredients and equipment needed for the recipe to streamline the cooking process.

Multi-task: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the teriyaki sauce to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Invest in quality tools: Quality kitchen tools such as sharp knives and efficient mixing bowls can save time and effort during food preparation.

Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and bowls as you cook to keep the kitchen tidy and save time on cleanup later.

Label and date: If you're making extra meatballs to freeze, be sure to label and date the storage containers for easy identification later.

Substitute Ingredients For Teriyaki Beef Meatballs Recipe

beef mince - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a lean and healthy alternative to beef mince, and it provides a similar texture and flavor to the meatballs.
panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with regular breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for panko breadcrumbs, providing a similar texture and binding quality to the meatballs.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, and it has a similar rich and savory flavor that works well in the teriyaki sauce.
cooking sake - Substitute with mirin: Mirin is a sweet rice wine that can be used as a substitute for cooking sake, adding a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor to the teriyaki sauce.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, providing a convenient option with a milder flavor.
brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of brown sugar, adding a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor to the teriyaki sauce.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a substitute for cornstarch to thicken the teriyaki sauce, providing a similar thickening effect.
sriracha - Substitute with chili garlic sauce: Chili garlic sauce can be used as a substitute for sriracha, adding a spicy kick and garlicky flavor to the teriyaki sauce.

Presentation Tips for Teriyaki Beef Meatballs

Elevate the plating: When presenting the teriyaki beef meatballs, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing arrangement on the plate. Consider using edible flowers or microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce a textural element to the presentation by serving the meatballs on a bed of thinly shredded cabbage or daikon radish. This will provide a delightful contrast to the tender meatballs.
Utilize minimalist plating: Embrace the concept of minimalism by arranging the meatballs in a clean, deliberate manner on the plate. Opt for white plates to allow the vibrant colors of the dish to stand out.
Highlight the glaze: Showcase the glistening teriyaki glaze by drizzling a small amount around the meatballs, creating an enticing visual appeal that emphasizes the flavors of the dish.
Emphasize symmetry: Arrange the meatballs in a symmetrical pattern on the plate, creating a visually pleasing presentation that demonstrates attention to detail and precision in plating.
Incorporate Japanese-inspired elements: Add a touch of authenticity to the presentation by incorporating chopsticks or a folded bamboo leaf as a decorative element, paying homage to the dish's Japanese roots.
Consider negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the meatballs and accompanying elements to stand out and take center stage, creating a visually striking presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Teriyaki Beef Meatballs

Oven: An appliance used for baking or roasting food.
Cookie scoop: A utensil designed to portion out cookie dough or meatball mixture.
Baking sheets: Flat, rectangular metal sheets used for baking in the oven.
Parchment paper: A non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets or pans.
Large bowl: A container for mixing ingredients.
Whisk: A utensil used for blending ingredients together.
Medium-sized pot: A cooking vessel used for making sauces or heating liquids.
Spatula: A tool used for tossing and turning meatballs or other foods.
Serving dish or tray: A platter or dish used for presenting and serving food.
Toothpicks or mini forks: Utensils used for serving and picking up small food items.

Storing and Freezing Teriyaki Beef Meatballs

Allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
If you have leftover teriyaki sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
To freeze the meatballs, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen teriyaki meatballs can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the frozen meatballs on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a covered skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
If you want to freeze the meatballs with the teriyaki sauce, allow both components to cool completely before combining them in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing. To reheat, thaw the meatballs and sauce in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a covered skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

How To Reheat Leftover Teriyaki Beef Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover teriyaki beef meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the meatballs' shape and texture while reheating.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the meatballs in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the meatballs to become tough and rubbery.
If you have leftover teriyaki sauce, reheat it in a small saucepan over low heat until warm. You can also add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin out the sauce if needed. Once the meatballs are heated, toss them in the warm sauce to refresh the flavors.
For a crispy exterior, heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and the outside is slightly crispy. This method works well if you prefer a more textured surface on your reheated meatballs.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the teriyaki beef meatballs. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the meatballs in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the meatballs are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.

Random Fact About Teriyaki Beef Meatballs

Teriyaki beef meatballs are a popular Japanese dish that combines the savory flavors of beef with a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce. This dish is a great option for a party or gathering, as the meatballs can be served as a delicious appetizer.

Is Making Teriyaki Beef Meatballs at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this teriyaki beef meatballs recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients, such as beef mince, panko breadcrumbs, and soy sauce, are commonly found in households and are relatively affordable. The versatility of the dish also makes it suitable for various occasions, adding value to its cost-effectiveness. Rating: 9/10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it a budget-friendly option for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Are Teriyaki Beef Meatballs Healthy or Unhealthy?

This teriyaki beef meatballs recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

The recipe uses 2 lbs of beef mince, which is high in saturated fat and calories.
The teriyaki sauce contains a significant amount of sugar from the brown sugar and mirin, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake.
The recipe also includes soy sauce, which is high in sodium.

However, the recipe does incorporate some healthy ingredients, such as scallions and garlic, which offer various health benefits.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use lean ground beef or substitute a portion of the beef with ground turkey or chicken to reduce the overall fat content.
Reduce the amount of brown sugar in the teriyaki sauce or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Use low-sodium soy sauce to decrease the dish's salt content.
Increase the number of vegetables in the recipe by adding finely chopped or grated carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meatball mixture. This will boost the fiber and nutrient content while reducing the overall calorie density.
Serve the meatballs with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to create a more balanced meal.
Use whole-grain breadcrumbs instead of panko to increase the fiber content.

Editor's Thoughts on This Teriyaki Beef Meatballs Recipe

The teriyaki beef meatballs recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, while the teriyaki sauce strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory. The use of scallions and garlic adds depth to the meatballs, and the sesame seeds and green onions provide a beautiful finishing touch. This dish is perfect for entertaining or as a flavorful addition to any meal. The recipe is well-structured and easy to follow, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. Overall, it's a winning combination that is sure to impress!

Enhance Your Teriyaki Beef Meatballs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables, including carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, seasoned with herbs and olive oil.

Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit salad featuring a mix of juicy strawberries, tangy pineapple, and sweet mango, drizzled with a honey-lime dressing.

Tomato Soup: Rich and velvety tomato soup, garnished with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Teriyaki Beef Meatballs

Spicy Shrimp Tacos: These spicy shrimp tacos are a perfect blend of heat and flavor, with a delicious homemade slaw to top it off.

Mango Chicken Curry: This mango chicken curry is a sweet and savory dish that is sure to impress, with tender chicken and a rich, aromatic sauce.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This roasted vegetable quinoa salad is a healthy and satisfying meal, packed with colorful veggies and a zesty lemon vinaigrette.

Berry Cobbler: This berry cobbler is a delightful dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of fresh berries, topped with a buttery, golden crust.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Teriyaki Beef Meatballs

Appetizers:

Bacon-Wrapped Dates: For a savory and sweet appetizer, try wrapping dates in crispy bacon for a delicious flavor combination that will leave your guests wanting more. The saltiness of the bacon pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the dates, creating a mouthwatering bite-sized treat.

Caprese Skewers: Create a colorful and refreshing appetizer by skewering cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of tangy flavor that complements the creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes. These skewers are not only visually appealing but also bursting with fresh and vibrant flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and a crunchy oat topping in this classic apple crisp. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.

Why trust this Teriyaki Beef Meatballs Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the succulent richness of beef mince with the aromatic essence of garlic and scallions. The teriyaki sauce, featuring soy sauce, mirin, and a hint of sriracha, promises a harmonious balance of sweet and savory. With meticulous attention to detail, the meatballs are glazed to perfection, ensuring a delectable experience with every bite. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe to elevate your culinary journey with its exquisite blend of Asian-inspired ingredients and tantalizing aromas.

Share your thoughts on the Teriyaki Beef Meatballs Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for the meatballs?

Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey as a substitute for beef in this recipe. The turkey will bring a lighter flavor to the meatballs while still pairing well with the teriyaki sauce.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time and reheat them later?

Absolutely! You can make the meatballs ahead of time and reheat them when you're ready to serve. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave before tossing them in the teriyaki sauce.

Is there a way to make the teriyaki sauce less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet teriyaki sauce, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar in the recipe. Start by using half the amount of brown sugar and then adjust to taste. You can also add a splash of rice vinegar to balance the sweetness.

Can I freeze the meatballs after they're cooked?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs. Once they have cooled, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, making sure to remove any excess air. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, simply thaw and reheat as desired.

What can I serve with the teriyaki beef meatballs?

These teriyaki beef meatballs are versatile and can be served in various ways. You can serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks, or as a main dish over steamed rice or noodles. They also make a delicious addition to a bento box or as a filling for sliders or sandwiches.