These tasty Mongolian Beef Meatballs are packed with flavor and can be ready in just 30 minutes! Made from ground beef and coated in a sweet soy sauce, they are hard to resist.
I love how quick and easy this dish is! Perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair them with rice for a full meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the meatballs. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work. They’ll change the flavor profile a bit but will still be delicious!
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a nice crunch, but you can use regular breadcrumbs if needed. For a gluten-free option, try crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
Green Onions: They add a fresh flavor. If you don’t have green onions, chives or shallots can be decent substitutes. They’re milder and will give a different but yummy twist.
Soy Sauce: Essential for saltiness and umami. Use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free flavor. Just adjust sweetness accordingly as coconut aminos are less salty.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Getting meatballs just right is important. Here’s how to ensure they stay juicy:
- Do not overmix the meatball mixture; gentle mixing keeps them tender.
- Using panko breadcrumbs helps absorb moisture without becoming dense.
- Make sure your skillet isn’t too hot; medium heat lets them cook evenly.
- Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer; they should reach 160°F.
By following these tips, you’ll have meatballs that are packed with flavor and a perfect texture!
30-Minute Mongolian Beef Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mongolian Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice (or jasmine rice)
- Steamed or roasted broccoli (or your choice of vegetables)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a complete meal ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of chopped green onions, egg, minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together using your hands or a spoon until it’s well combined. Make sure not to overmix!
2. Form and Cook Meatballs:
Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. While it’s heating up, form the meat mixture into about 1-inch meatballs and carefully place them in the skillet. Cook the meatballs for about 7-10 minutes, turning them occasionally until they’re nicely browned and cooked through. You want them delicious and golden!
3. Make the Sauce:
While the meatballs are cooking, grab a small bowl and whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, rice vinegar, and water until everything is well mixed and there are no lumps. This will be your flavorful sauce!
4. Add Sauce to Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are done cooking, pour the sauce over them in the skillet. Gently stir to coat all the meatballs evenly with the sauce. Let them simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken and stick to the meatballs.
5. Serve:
Now it’s time to eat! Serve the Mongolian beef meatballs over a bed of cooked rice, with some steamed broccoli (or your favorite veggies) on the side. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for that lovely finishing touch!
Enjoy your quick and delicious 30-minute Mongolian Beef Meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings slightly, as turkey can be milder in flavor. You may also want to add a bit more moisture, like an additional egg or a splash of broth, to keep the meatballs juicy.
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work too, but the texture may differ slightly. You can also use crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice as a substitute. Just ensure that whatever you choose can help bind the meat mixture together!
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened too much, adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen it up!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
