Description
These Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli are coated in a rich, garlicky, sweet-and-savory sauce that clings to every bite! Served with tender-crisp broccoli over rice, this dish is a perfect balance of flavor and texture. It’s quick, easy, and way better than takeout—ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (for frying)
For the Mongolian Sauce:
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
For the Broccoli & Garnish:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, soy sauce, ginger, salt, and black pepper until combined.
- Roll into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
- Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned.
- Remove from the pan and set aside (they will finish cooking in the sauce).
Step 3: Make the Mongolian Sauce
- In the same pan, add garlic and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, water, and red pepper flakes.
- Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 2 minutes until thickened.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli & Combine
- Add broccoli florets to the pan and stir for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Return the meatballs to the pan and coat in the sauce. Simmer for 2 minutes until heated through.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
- Serve over rice or noodles.
Notes
Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined for tender meatballs.
Sear First, Then Simmer – Browning adds flavor, and simmering keeps them juicy.
Adjust the Sauce – Add more water for a thinner sauce or extra cornstarch for a thicker glaze.
Use Frozen Meatballs – If short on time, use pre-cooked frozen meatballs and toss them in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired