These Mongolian beef meatballs are packed with flavor and come together in just 30 minutes! Ground beef is mixed with tasty spices, rolled into bite-sized meatballs, and cooked to perfection.
Who doesn’t love a recipe that’s both quick and yummy? I usually whip these up when I’m in a hurry, and they’re great over rice or with a side of veggies. Perfect for busy nights! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star ingredient for meatballs, providing flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work well too. You could also use plant-based ground products for a vegetarian alternative.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the meatball mixture. If you’re out, crushed crackers or rolled oats can be good substitutes. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for those with gluten sensitivities.
Green Onions: These add a fresh, mild onion flavor. If you don’t have them, try regular onions or even chives. Just keep the amount small if using stronger onions, as they can overpower the dish.
Hoison Sauce: This gives a sweet and tangy flavor to the sauce. If unavailable, you can mix soy sauce with a bit of honey or maple syrup for a similar taste.
Sesame Oil: This adds a rich, nutty flavor. If you can’t find it, use olive oil or any neutral oil, but remember, you’ll miss that unique sesame taste!
How Do I Form Perfect Meatballs?
Getting your meatballs just right can be a bit tricky. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Here are some tips:
- Use wet hands when shaping to prevent sticking.
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; combine just until mixed.
- Use a small ice cream scoop for uniform size without the mess.
Remember, keeping the meatballs slightly loose helps them stay tender when cooking. Happy meatball making!
30-Minute Mongolian Beef Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
- Steamed broccoli
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Additional chopped green onions, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes from start to finish! You can whip up these flavorful meatballs quickly and have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, egg, minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to combine everything gently until just mixed—not overworking it will keep the meatballs tender.
2. Form the Meatballs:
Take small portions of the meat mixture and roll them into meatballs, making them about 1 inch in diameter. This size will help them cook evenly!
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Carefully place the meatballs in the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Use a spatula to make turning easier.
4. Make the Sauce:
While the meatballs are cooking, use a separate bowl to whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, water, and sesame oil. Mix until smooth and set aside for a moment.
5. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Once the meatballs are cooked, pour the prepared sauce over the meatballs in the skillet. Gently stir to coat the meatballs with the sauce. Let everything cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the delicious Mongolian Beef Meatballs over a bed of cooked white rice, and add some steamed broccoli on the side for a healthy touch. Don’t forget to garnish with sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions if you like!
7. Dig In!
Enjoy your quick and tasty Mongolian Beef Meatballs—perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
## FAQs for 30-Minute Mongolian Beef Meatballs
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Certainly! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that ground turkey can be a bit drier than beef, so consider adding a little more soy sauce or some additional breadcrumbs to maintain moisture in the meatballs.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting regular soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Additionally, replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for binding the meatballs.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be reheated directly from frozen in the microwave or skillet!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatballs?
Absolutely! Adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can enhance flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them finely so they blend well, and consider reducing the breadcrumbs slightly to account for the extra moisture.
