Name: Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli (Easy!!)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef; 4 green onions (finely chopped, plus more for serving); 2 inch fresh ginger (grated (or 2 Tbsp. ginger paste)); 6 cloves garlic (minced or grated); 1 head broccoli (cut into florets); 1 Tablespoon olive oil; 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 cup brown sugar; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 2 Tablespoons ginger (minced); ⅔ cup water; 1 Tablespoon rice wine vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2 Tablespoons cornstarch (whisked with 1/2 cup water); Kosher salt (to taste); pepper (to taste); 3 green onions (thinly sliced); Sesame seeds

Introduction to Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinners? If you’re a busy professional juggling a million things, Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli might just be the delightful change you need. This dish not only delivers on flavor but also on practicality. With just 30 minutes cooking time and everything prepared on one baking sheet, cleanup is a breeze.

Why Sticky Mongolian Meatballs are a Game Changer for Busy Professionals

Imagine coming home after a bustling day, craving a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to whip up. These Mongolian Beef Meatballs serve up a deliciously thick, sweet sauce that complements tender meatballs and crisp broccoli perfectly. Plus, it's versatile enough to serve over rice or noodles, making it adaptable to your cravings and dietary preferences.

Another fabulous aspect of this dish is its balance of taste and nutrition. With ingredients like fresh ginger, garlic, and green onions, you're not just filling up; you’re nourishing yourself too! In fact, these meatballs are rich in protein and packed with vitamins, making them a solid choice for dinner.

Ready to dive into a flavorful weeknight meal? Keep scrolling for the full recipe!

Ingredients for Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Essential Ingredients for Juicy Meatballs

For those tender, flavorful meatballs, you'll need:

2 pounds of ground beef: The star protein that gives these meatballs their richness.
4 green onions, finely chopped: They add a subtle crunch and freshness.
2 inches of fresh ginger, grated: A must for that zingy flavor.
6 cloves of minced garlic: Because garlic makes everything better!

These ingredients work together to ensure each meatball is juicy and full of flavor. Don't skip the green onions; they really brighten up the dish!

Ingredients for the Delicious Sticky Sauce

What’s a Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli dish without that incredible sauce? Gather these:

1 cup low-sodium soy sauce: For a punch of savory goodness.
1 cup brown sugar: Adds the perfect sweetness and stickiness.
4 additional cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of minced ginger: Enhancing the flavor profile even further.
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar: Provides a slight tang.
Red pepper flakes: A pinch for that touch of heat.

These components meld beautifully to create a rich and sticky sauce that's nearly addictive.

Fresh Additions for Garnishing

To really elevate your Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli, don’t forget the garnishes:

Thinly sliced green onions: For a bit of freshness and color.
Sesame seeds: They add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

These finishing touches not only improve the presentation but also bring an extra layer of flavor. Serve it all over rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s sure to impress your friends!

Preparing Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, and preparing these Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli is no exception. With just a bit of prep work, you can have a delicious, satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into the steps to make this delightful main course!

Preheat your oven

First things first: preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. This high heat will ensure our meatballs get that perfect golden exterior while the broccoli roasts to tender perfection. For easier cleanup, line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Seriously, it makes such a difference!

Prepare the meatball mixture

In a large bowl, combine 2 pounds of ground beef, four finely chopped green onions, two inches of grated fresh ginger, and six cloves of minced garlic. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste—don’t be shy! The flavors of these ingredients truly shine when they meld together. Mix until just combined; you don’t want to overwork the meat, as it can make the meatballs tough.

Shape the meatballs

Now, it’s time to shape those magic meatballs! Using about a tablespoon of the mixture, roll them into even balls and place them on one side of your prepared baking sheet. This is where you can get creative—make them a bit larger if you prefer.

Roast the meatballs and broccoli

On the other side of the baking sheet, toss one head of broccoli, cut into florets, with one tablespoon of olive oil, and season it with salt and pepper. This dynamic duo will roast together, and in 15 minutes, you’ll have beautifully cooked meatballs and broccoli. Just make sure to check that the meatballs are thoroughly cooked.

Make the sticky sauce

While the meatballs and broccoli are roasting, it’s sauce time! In a skillet, combine one cup of low-sodium soy sauce, one cup of brown sugar, four minced garlic cloves, two tablespoons of minced ginger, and ⅔ cup of water. Bring this enticing mixture to a simmer for about ten minutes. For that sticky finish, whisk together two tablespoons of cornstarch with ½ cup of water and add it to the sauce. Stir until thickened—delicious!

Combine meatballs with sauce

Once your meatballs are done and swimming in that decadent sauce, it’s time to toss them together. Gently mix the cooked meatballs into the sticky sauce until fully coated. This is where the magic happens—who doesn’t love a good sauce?

Serve over rice or noodles

For a delightful serving suggestion, place the sticky meatballs and broccoli over bowls of your favorite rice or noodles. Garnish with additional sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a restaurant-worthy touch.

Now you’re all set! Enjoy every sticky, savory bite of your Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli. This dish will undoubtedly become a go-to in your meal rotation—easy, delicious, and truly satisfying!

Variations on Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Vegetarian Alternatives Using Tofu or Lentils

If you're looking to enjoy Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli without meat, consider swapping in firm tofu or cooked lentils for a protein boost. For tofu, press it to remove excess moisture, cube it, and sauté before adding to your sauce for a delightful texture. Alternatively, use cooked lentils mixed with green onions and spices to create a hearty, meatless version—perfect for vegans and vegetarians alike.

Low-Carb Options with Zucchini Noodles

Craving a low-carb meal? Replace traditional rice with sautéed zucchini noodles! They add a fresh taste and lightness to your dish. Just spiralize the zucchini and quickly sauté it in olive oil until tender. This will keep your plate colorful and nutritious, letting those delectable Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli shine through while you enjoy a lighter version perfect for a Keto lifestyle.

Cooking tips and notes for Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Achieving the perfect meatball texture

To ensure your Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli are tender and juicy, avoid overmixing the meat. Gently combine the ingredients just until mixed, letting the meat retain some texture. If you want a little added moisture, consider incorporating breadcrumbs or an egg; both help bind while keeping the meatballs soft.

Making ahead for meal prep success

These meatballs are fantastic for meal prepping! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you're ready to enjoy a quick, hearty meal. Additionally, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. This means a flavorful dinner is just a few minutes away! For more meal prep tips, check out this guide.

Serving suggestions for Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Serving alongside rice or noodles

One of the best things about Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli is how versatile it is! You can serve it over a fluffy bed of rice or toss it with your favorite noodles for a comforting meal. For a twist, try quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option. If you're feeling adventurous, consider using rice paper to make fresh spring rolls with the meatballs and broccoli!

Creative ways to garnish for extra flair

Make your dish pop and take presentation up a notch! Garnish your Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. Want an extra kick? Add a few chopped chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha! Consider adding pineapple chunks or sliced radishes for a colorful contrast—just think outside the box. Your guests will be impressed, and your taste buds will thank you!

Time breakdown for Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Preparation time

This dish starts with a quick preparation phase of just 10 minutes. In that time, you’ll gather your ingredients and mix together your flavorful meatball mixture.

Cooking time

The cooking process takes about 20 minutes. You’ll bake the meatballs and broccoli together, allowing their flavors to meld beautifully.

Total time

All in all, you’re looking at a total time of 30 minutes to whip up these Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli. It’s a perfect option for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but need to keep things efficient.

Ready to dive into this easy, delightful recipe? Let’s make it happen!

Nutritional Facts for Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli contains approximately 691 calories, making it a satisfying main course option for your dinner table.

Key nutritional highlights

These flavorful meatballs not only burst with taste but also deliver:

Protein: 28g, perfect for muscle building.
Carbohydrates: 73g, fuelling your energy levels.
Healthy fats: 34g, thanks to the olive oil and beef.
Vitamins: A nutritious dose of Vitamin C (140mg) from broccoli boosts your immune system.

Enjoy this dish guilt-free as part of a balanced meal! For more details on healthy eating, check out the USDA's nutrition guidelines here.

FAQ about Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

How can I store leftovers?

You can store your Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just make sure to separate the meatballs and broccoli before freezing, so they maintain their texture. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to keep things moist.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

If you're looking for alternatives to ground beef in this dish, you’ve got options! Ground turkey or chicken works great and will keep your meatballs leaner. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or chickpeas mashed and mixed with spices to create a protein-rich plant-based version.

Can I make the sauce spicier?

Absolutely! If you’re a fan of heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to your sauce while it simmers. You could also incorporate fresh diced chilies for a touch of freshness. Just remember to taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level!

For more tips on creating your perfect sauce, check out Serious Eats for expert sauce guidance.

Conclusion on Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

In just 30 minutes, you've mastered Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli! This meal not only delights your taste buds with its rich flavors but also simplifies cleanup. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it's a delightful nod to Asian cuisine that you can enjoy over rice or noodles. Savor every bite!