Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli


  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli is a sweet-savory dish with juicy meatballs in a rich Mongolian sauce, served with crisp-tender broccoli. Perfect for weeknights or meal prep!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (for sauce)
  • White or black sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Preparing the Meatballs:

  1. In a large bowl, mix ground beef or turkey with garlic, ginger, green onions, soy sauce, egg, panko breadcrumbs, and cornstarch. Stir until well combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring they do not overcrowd the pan.
  4. Cook until golden brown on all sides and fully cooked through (about 8-10 minutes). Remove from the pan and set aside.

Making the Mongolian Sauce:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water.
  2. Pour the sauce into the same skillet used for cooking the meatballs. Stir over medium heat until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  3. Return the meatballs to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce until they are fully coated.

Preparing the Broccoli:

  1. In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil and stir-fry the broccoli until it is bright green and crisp-tender.
  2. Optionally, add a splash of water to steam the broccoli for a softer texture.

Serving:

  1. Plate the Mongolian meatballs over a bed of rice or noodles, then add the cooked broccoli on the side.
  2. Garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions before serving.

Notes

  • Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for a spicy version.
  • Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free soy sauce and substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko.
  • Vegetarian Twist – Replace the meatballs with tofu or plant-based meat alternatives.
  • Different Proteins – Try using ground chicken, pork, or even lamb for a different flavor profile.
  • Extra Veggies – Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more color and nutrients.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian, Chinese-Inspired

Keywords: Mongolian meatballs, Asian meatballs, sticky meatballs, beef meatballs, easy dinner recipe