Name: Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli (Easy!!)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 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 a busy young professional juggling work, social life, and perhaps even a side hustle? If so, you might often find yourself leaning towards convenient takeout meals. But have you considered how much more satisfying and nutritious it is to prepare homemade food? Crafting dishes like sticky Mongolian meatballs and broccoli not only allows you to control ingredients, but it also opens the door to flavors that can elevate your dining experience beyond what you typically find in restaurants.

Cooking at home can foster creativity and help you unwind after a long day. It’s also a chance to bond with friends or even discover new culinary skills. Plus, learning to make delicious recipes like this one can save you money—an essential factor for young professionals striving for financial freedom. The combination of tender meatballs glazed in a savory-sweet sauce with crisp broccoli provides a balanced meal that’s just as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

If you're ready to spice up your weeknight dinners and explore the joys of home-cooked meals, dive into this easy and delightful recipe. It's packed with flavor, and I can guarantee you'll want to make it time and time again!

Ingredients for Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Main Ingredients

To kick off this delicious dish, you’ll need 2 pounds of ground beef—the heart of the sticky Mongolian meatballs! Combine this with 4 finely chopped green onions, 2 inches of fresh ginger (grated), and 6 cloves of garlic (minced) for a flavor explosion. Don’t forget to prepare 1 head of broccoli, chopped into florets, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil for roasting.

Sauce Ingredients

The magic happens in the sauce, and here's what you'll need: 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, 1 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, and 1 cup of brown sugar for that irresistible sweetness. You’ll also use 4 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of minced ginger, and ⅔ cup of water. For some zing, add 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar and a pinch of red pepper flakes. A little cornstarch whisked with water will thicken it perfectly.

For Garnish

To finish off your sticky creation, garnish with sliced green onions and sprinkle on some sesame seeds. These little touches elevate your dish from great to unforgettable. Each ingredient contributes to a balanced meal that’s sure to impress!

For more tips on meatball variations, check out our guide.

Step-by-step Preparation of Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Cooking should be fun and rewarding, and what better way to enjoy a delicious meal than by making these sticky Mongolian meatballs and broccoli? This dish is not only full of flavor, but it’s also straightforward to prepare. Let’s dive into the step-by-step preparation!

Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Begin by preheating your oven to 450 degrees F. This step is crucial as a hot oven will give your meatballs that perfect browned exterior while keeping them juicy. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. This will save you from the dreaded cleanup later!

Mix and Shape the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 pounds of ground beef, 4 finely chopped green onions, 2 inches of grated fresh ginger (or 2 tablespoons of ginger paste), and 6 minced garlic cloves. Season the mixture with kosher salt and pepper to taste for that added kick. Use your hands to mix until just combined—remember, overworking can lead to tough meatballs!

Now, roll them into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on one side of your prepared baking sheet. On the other side, add a cut head of broccoli tossed with a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. It’s a perfect way to incorporate veggies into your meal without much extra effort!

Roast the Meatballs and Broccoli

Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and roast for about 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through (an internal temperature of 160°F). The broccoli should also become tender and slightly crispy. If you like a bit more char on your veggies, consider giving them an additional 2-3 minutes.

Prepare the Flavorful Sauce

While those tasty sticky Mongolian meatballs and broccoli are roasting, it’s time to whip up the sauce! In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Stir in 1 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 cup of brown sugar, 4 additional minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons minced ginger, and ⅔ cup of water.

Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to develop the flavors. To thicken the sauce, whisk 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with ½ cup water and add this mixture to the sauce. Cook until the sauce thickens beautifully—this will be the hero of your dish!

Coat the Meatballs in Sauce and Serve

Once your meatballs and broccoli are roasted, add the meatballs to the skillet with the sauce. Toss them until they’re fully coated, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Serve your sticky Mongolian meatballs over a bed of rice, topped with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, with your roasted broccoli on the side.

And just like that, you’ve created a flavorful, satisfying meal that's sure to impress your friends or family! Enjoy the balance of savory meatballs and nutritious broccoli in this easy-to-make recipe. Bon appétit!

Variations on Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Adding More Vegetables

Transform your sticky Mongolian meatballs and broccoli into a vibrant medley by incorporating more veggies! Consider adding bell peppers, snap peas, or even carrots for extra color and nutrition. These additions not only boost the flavor but also enhance the dish's nutritional profile, making it even more satisfying. For a touch of crunch, toss in some water chestnuts. The possibilities are endless, and the dish becomes a canvas for whatever vegetables you have on hand.

Swapping the Protein

If you're looking to mix things up, try swapping the meat! Ground turkey or chicken can provide a lighter alternative while still delivering great flavor. For a vegetarian twist, go for tofu or plant-based meat alternatives. Simply adjust the cooking time as needed. This flexibility ensures that sticky Mongolian meatballs and broccoli can fit into various dietary preferences while still being delicious. Don’t hesitate to experiment; each variation may just become your new favorite!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

When making sticky Mongolian meatballs and broccoli, a few tips can elevate your dish. First, ensure the meatballs are uniform in size; this guarantees they cook evenly. If you find your mixture too sticky, a dash of breadcrumbs can help. For a vibrant broccoli side, steam it lightly before adding it to the oven—this keeps it crisp and bright.

Don’t forget to garnish with sesame seeds and fresh green onions for a burst of flavor. If you want to personalize the sauce, consider adding a splash of orange juice for some zest. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Serving Suggestions for Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Pairing with rice or noodles

For a delightful meal, serve your sticky Mongolian meatballs and broccoli over a bed of fluffy rice or toss them with your favorite noodles. Jasmine or basmati rice complements the dish beautifully, absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce. For a fun twist, try using soba or udon noodles for a heartier experience. Don’t forget to drizzle any extra sauce over the top for added taste!

Creative plating ideas

Presentation is key! Consider using a shallow bowl to showcase the colorful broccoli and glistening meatballs, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions. For an elevated look, add a lime wedge on the side for a zesty touch or incorporate a colorful salad for contrast. Remember, we eat with our eyes first, so get a little creative!

Time Breakdown for Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Preparation Time

You'll need about 10-15 minutes to gather all your ingredients and prepare the sticky Mongolian meatballs and broccoli for cooking. This is the perfect time to set the mood with your favorite playlist!

Cooking Time

Once everything is prepped, the cooking process will take around 25-30 minutes. This includes baking the meatballs and broccoli and simmering the delicious sauce to perfection.

Total Time

In total, expect the entire process to take about 35-45 minutes. You'll have a hearty, mouthwatering meal ready to serve in no time! Feel free to check out more meal ideas that fit within this timeframe for busy weeknights.

Nutritional Facts for Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Calories

Each serving of sticky Mongolian meatballs and broccoli contains approximately 691 calories. This hearty meal is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, offering a good balance of protein and carbs to keep you energized throughout the day.

Protein

You’ll get about 28 grams of protein per serving from the beef and other ingredients. This makes the dish a great choice for those looking to increase their protein intake while enjoying a flavorful meal.

Sodium

Keep in mind, the sodium content is around 2276 mg per serving, mainly due to soy sauce. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider opting for low-sodium soy sauce or adjusting the recipe slightly.

For more insights on managing sodium in your diet, check out this guide from the American Heart Association. Remember, enjoying the richness of sticky Mongolian meatballs and broccoli in moderation can be part of a healthy eating plan!

FAQs about Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sticky Mongolian meatballs and broccoli in advance. Form the meatballs and chill them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes dinnertime a breeze, especially on busy weeknights. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly if they’re cold from the fridge.

What are some good side dishes to pair with this recipe?

Pair these meatballs with a side of fluffy white or jasmine rice to soak up that delicious sauce. You could also enjoy them with quinoa for an added health boost or a fresh garden salad to balance the flavors. Need something heartier? Try stir-fried noodles, which complement the dish beautifully.

How can I adjust the spice level?

To tweak the spice level of your sticky Mongolian meatballs and broccoli, simply decrease or omit the red pepper flakes. For a spicier kick, add more according to your taste. You could also include a dash of chili sauce when mixing the sauce ingredients for that extra heat. Enjoy experimenting!

Conclusion on Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

In conclusion, sticky Mongolian meatballs and broccoli is an effortless meal that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition. This dish delights the taste buds while keeping dinner prep manageable. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering. Try it out—you’ll leave your guests asking for seconds!