Name: Honey Garlic Meatball Rice Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1/2 cup pure honey; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked); 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers and broccoli); 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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The aroma of Honey Garlic Meatball Rice Bake fills the kitchen, wrapping around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. Imagine tender meatballs glazed in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce nestled atop fluffy rice, it’s practically a hug on a plate. savory potato pierogi.

I first made this dish for a casual family gathering, and the delighted faces at the table were priceless. The laughter and compliments echoed long after the last bite was gone, making it an instant classic in our household.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Honey Garlic Meatball Rice Bake is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare
The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a mouthwatering experience
Its colorful presentation makes it a feast for the eyes as well
Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends

Sharing this recipe evokes memories of family dinners filled with joy and laughter, where everyone eagerly awaited their serving of the delectable meatball bake.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for juicy meatballs; it keeps them tender without being too greasy. tender slow cooker beef.
Breadcrumbs: Opt for plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs while adding texture.
Eggs: One large egg helps hold everything together; don’t skip this essential ingredient.
Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic adds incredible flavor; fresh cloves are always best over pre-minced versions.
Honey: Use pure honey for that perfect sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce will enhance the umami without overpowering your dish’s flavor.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal here, as it cooks nicely and soaks up all those delicious flavors. delicious cheesy steak rice.
Vegetables (like Bell Peppers and Broccoli): Adding colorful veggies boosts nutrition and makes your bake visually stunning.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions are perfect as a garnish—adding freshness and crunch at serving time.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Gather Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare everything.

Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it or they’ll be tough! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe.

Shape Your Meatballs: Using your hands, roll out small balls about an inch in diameter. sheet pan chicken pitas Lay them on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup later.

Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic until smooth. This sauce will coat your meatballs beautifully.

Cook the Rice: While you’re shaping meatballs, cook your rice according to package instructions until fluffy. You want each grain separate to soak up that scrumptious sauce later.

Combine Everything in a Baking Dish: In a large casserole dish, spread cooked rice evenly across the bottom. Top with meatballs spaced apart so they cook evenly. Pour honey garlic sauce over everything generously.

Bake to Perfection: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until meatballs are cooked through; they should be golden brown!

Serve hot from the oven with freshly chopped green onions sprinkled on top for color and flavor. Trust me; your family will be asking for seconds!

You Must Know

Honey garlic meatball rice bake is a cozy dish that combines sweet and savory flavors
The aroma of garlic and honey fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere
This dish is perfect for family dinners, serving everyone a hearty meal without much fuss

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meatballs in a skillet to lock in flavor, then mix everything together in a baking dish. Bake until bubbly for optimal texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out brown rice for quinoa or zucchini noodles for a lighter option. Adding veggies like bell peppers can enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, warm in the oven or microwave until heated through to keep it deliciously moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor; dried doesn’t quite cut it
Make sure not to crowd the meatballs while browning them; this ensures they crisp up beautifully
Always taste your sauce before adding it to the meatballs; adjust sweetness as needed

While making this honey garlic meatball rice bake, I remember my family’s first taste test. They declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which made my heart swell with joy! For more inspiration, check out this Easy Irish Soda Bread recipe.

FAQ

How long does it take to make honey garlic meatball rice bake?

It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to bake.

Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?

Yes, frozen meatballs work well; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with honey garlic meatball rice bake?

Serve this dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Honey Garlic Meatball Rice Bake