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Looking to spice up your meal? These Spicy Honey Sriracha Meatballs pack a punch of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. With ground beef or turkey, fresh garlic, and a kick from sriracha, this dish is easy to make and fun to serve. Let’s dive into the tasty world of meatballs and create a dish you won’t want to share!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy Sriracha and sweet honey creates a deliciously balanced flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these meatballs can be whipped up in no time, making them perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Versatile Dish: These meatballs can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or even in a sandwich, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
- Healthy Option: Using ground turkey as a base keeps these meatballs lean, while the fresh ingredients add nutrients without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Sauce Ingredients
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Seasoning Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
When making Spicy Honey Sriracha Meatballs, the ingredients are key to the taste. The blend of ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, and cheese gives the meatballs a tasty base. I love using fresh garlic and ginger. They add a bright punch of flavor that pairs well with the meat.
The sauce is a game changer. Honey and Sriracha create a sweet and spicy mix. This sauce coats the meatballs perfectly. Rice vinegar adds a nice tang, while sesame oil brings depth to the flavor.
Seasoning is just as important. Black pepper and salt help enhance all the tastes. Crushed red pepper flakes add a little heat. Fresh cilantro not only looks great but also adds a fresh finish.
Gather these simple ingredients, and get ready to whip up a dish that everyone will love!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup.
Mixing the Meatball Ingredients
– In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan.
– Add the egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes.
– Mix well until the texture is even. Avoid overmixing; it can make the meatballs tough.
Forming and Baking the Meatballs
– Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture with your hands.
– Roll it into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
– Keep the meatballs spaced out. Bake for 15-20 minutes. They should be golden and cooked through. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Making the Spicy Honey Sriracha Sauce
– While the meatballs bake, combine honey, Sriracha, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small saucepan.
– Stir well over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Coating the Meatballs
– Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven.
– Carefully transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the spicy honey Sriracha sauce over the meatballs.
– Gently toss to coat each meatball evenly in the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
– Transfer the coated meatballs to a serving dish.
– Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Flavor
To make Spicy Honey Sriracha Meatballs pop, use fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic and ginger add a bright taste. They bring out the best flavor in your dish. Balance the sweetness of honey with the heat of Sriracha. This mix makes each bite exciting. Adjust the sweetness or spice to fit your taste buds.
Cooking Techniques
You can choose to bake or fry your meatballs. Baking is simpler and less messy. It also makes the meatballs crisp without much oil. Frying gives a nice brown crust but takes more care. Always check if the meatballs are done. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for the best results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overmixing the meatball mixture. This can make the meatballs tough. Mix just until combined for a tender bite. Another mistake is crowding the meatballs on the baking sheet. Leave space between them to cook evenly. This allows hot air to circulate and helps them brown nicely.
Pro Tips
- Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground turkey or beef for a healthier version of these meatballs without sacrificing flavor.
- Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of Sriracha and crushed red pepper based on your spice tolerance; start with less and add more to taste.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after baking before coating them in sauce to enhance their flavor and texture.
- Experiment with Garnishes: Try garnishing with sesame seeds or green onions for added texture and a burst of flavor.

Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up the meat to change the flavor. Try ground chicken or pork instead. Each meat adds a unique taste. If you want a lighter option, turkey works well too.
For dairy-free meals, skip the Parmesan cheese. Use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also try almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
Flavor Enhancements
Get creative by adding veggies to the meatball mix. Chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots bring color and nutrition. You can even mix in some chopped spinach for extra health benefits.
For a twist on the sauce, try adding hoisin sauce. This adds a sweet touch. You could also use chili garlic sauce for a different heat level.
Serving Variations
These meatballs make a great appetizer. Just serve them with toothpicks for easy eating. You can also place them on a platter with your favorite dipping sauce.
If you want to make it a meal, serve the meatballs over rice or noodles. They pair well with steamed broccoli or a fresh salad. This adds balance and makes the meal more filling.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After you enjoy your spicy honey Sriracha meatballs, store any leftovers in the fridge. Use an airtight container to keep them fresh. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work best. Make sure to cool the meatballs before sealing them to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezing Meatballs
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the meatballs cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. After that, transfer the meatballs to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. For reheating, you can bake them at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave them for a quick meal.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your meatballs can last up to four days. Always check for signs of spoilage. If they smell sour or change color, it’s best to toss them. When stored properly, frozen meatballs can last up to three months.
FAQs
Can I use lean meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can use lean meat. Ground turkey or lean beef works great. Lean meat keeps the meatballs lighter. However, it may result in drier meatballs. To prevent this, add a bit more fat, like olive oil or an extra egg.
How can I make the sauce less spicy?
To tone down the heat, reduce the Sriracha. You can start with one tablespoon instead of two. Adding more honey also helps. Honey balances the spice with sweetness. You can mix in a little ketchup for extra flavor.
What can I serve with Spicy Honey Sriracha Meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with rice or noodles. You can also serve them with a fresh salad. Try them in a sub with fresh veggies. For a fun twist, serve them as sliders with mini buns.
Can I prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the meatball mixture a day before. Store it in the fridge covered. This helps flavors blend well. Just form and bake them when ready to cook.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover meatballs?
Reheat leftover meatballs in the oven or microwave. For the oven, set it to 350°F. Place meatballs on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes. In the microwave, heat them for 1-2 minutes. Make sure they are hot all the way through.
You learned how to make spicy honey sriracha meatballs. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for great flavor. Remember to balance spice and sweetness for the best taste. Using fresh ingredients helps the dish shine. Whether serving as a snack or main meal, these meatballs will impress. Don’t forget to store any leftovers properly. Enjoy making this tasty dis
Spicy Honey Sriracha Meatballs
Delicious meatballs coated in a spicy honey Sriracha sauce, perfect for appetizers or a main dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 0.25 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro for garnish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined.
Using your hands, scoop out about 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a meatball. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all the mixture is used, ensuring the meatballs are evenly spaced.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
While the meatballs are baking, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, Sriracha sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the oven and carefully transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the spicy honey Sriracha sauce over the meatballs and gently toss to coat evenly.
Transfer the coated meatballs to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
Adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of Sriracha and red pepper flakes.
Keyword honey, meatballs, spicy, Sriracha
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