Name: Teriyaki Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1/3 cup soy sauce (for sauce); 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1/3 cup water

Sticky, savory, and bursting with umami flavor, these Teriyaki Meatballs are the kind of weeknight dinner you’ll find yourself making again and again. Perfectly juicy meatballs are glazed in a glossy teriyaki sauce, offering a satisfying balance of sweet and salty. They’re ideal over rice, tucked into lettuce wraps, or served as a party appetizer.

There’s something especially comforting about a homemade meatball dish, and teriyaki just takes it to another level. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is not only versatile but also incredibly easy to whip up in under 40 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Meatballs Recipe

These meatballs are incredibly juicy on the inside with a caramelized outer crust thanks to the oven broil and sticky sauce glaze. The teriyaki sauce clings to every bite, delivering maximum flavor with minimal fuss. It also happens to be freezer-friendly, making it a great make-ahead meal.

What Kind of Meat Should I Use for Teriyaki Meatballs?

Ground beef offers a rich flavor and a satisfying texture, but you can easily substitute it with ground chicken or turkey if you’re looking for a lighter version. If you want to go all out, a mix of ground pork and beef creates an ultra-savory bite. Choose meat with some fat content so the meatballs stay moist and tender.

Ingredients for the Teriyaki Meatballs

The ingredient list for these Teriyaki Meatballs is simple, yet each component brings something vital to the table. From the protein to the glaze, it all comes together for a balanced bite.

Ground beef is the base of the meatballs and provides richness.

Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs and keep them tender by absorbing moisture.

Egg is the glue that holds the mixture together.

Garlic and ginger add that signature aromatic punch that’s classic in teriyaki.

Soy sauce seasons the meat and enhances the umami depth.

Green onions bring freshness and a slight bite.

Brown sugar adds the sweet element to the sauce, balancing out the saltiness.

Rice vinegar gives the teriyaki sauce a bit of tang, lifting the flavor.

Cornstarch thickens the sauce to that signature glossy finish.

Sesame oil provides a nutty aroma and smooth texture.

Water is used to adjust the sauce consistency.

How To Make the Teriyaki Meatballs

Step 1: Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, and soy sauce. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until everything is just combined.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

Form the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes or until fully cooked through.

Step 3: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

While the meatballs bake, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the sauce thickens into a glaze.

Step 4: Glaze the Meatballs

Once the meatballs are out of the oven, transfer them to a skillet or saucepan. Pour the teriyaki sauce over and toss gently to coat each meatball completely. Simmer for a few minutes until the glaze clings to the meat.

How to Serve and Store Teriyaki Meatballs

These Teriyaki Meatballs are delicious hot, right out of the pan, but they also hold up beautifully for leftovers. This recipe feeds 4 to 6 people depending on serving size.

To store, allow the meatballs to cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. They also freeze well; just store them (with or without sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What to Serve With Teriyaki Meatballs?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

The ultimate pairing, jasmine rice soaks up every drop of the teriyaki glaze.

Stir-Fried Vegetables

Bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots stir-fried in garlic oil bring crunch and color.

Garlic Noodles

For a fusion twist, serve them over garlicky noodles for a savory tangle of flavor.

Cucumber Salad

A light, crisp cucumber salad with rice vinegar balances the richness of the meatballs.

Miso Soup

Warm and soothing, miso soup rounds out the meal with a comforting note.

Lettuce Cups

Scoop the glazed meatballs into butter lettuce for a low-carb option.

Pineapple Fried Rice

If you’re feeling tropical, the sweetness of pineapple rice complements the teriyaki sauce beautifully.

Want More Dinner Ideas with Asian Flair?

If you’re loving these Teriyaki Meatballs, you’ll definitely want to try some of these flavorful favorites:

• Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a protein-packed lunch with a fresh twist.
• Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon when you want a seafood option with rich flavor.
• Cashew Chicken Recipe for a saucy, nutty dinner that’s a family favorite.
• Crispy Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls if you’re looking for a fun appetizer with heat.
• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for a creamy, spicy fusion meal.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

I’d love to hear how your meatballs turned out! Did you use beef or go with a turkey version? Did you add spice or keep it sweet and mellow?

Let’s keep the dinner ideas flowing in the comments. I always enjoy hearing your twists and takes on these recipes.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and everyday meal inspiration on Janet Dishes on Pinterest.