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honey garlic meatball rice bake Recipe

honey garlic meatball rice bake Recipe

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4.8 from 19 reviews

This Honey Garlic Meatball Rice Bake is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines tender meatballs, a sticky-sweet honey garlic glaze, and fluffy rice, all baked to bubbly perfection. It strikes a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

FOR THE MEATBALLS:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground chicken
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional but recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

FOR THE HONEY GARLIC SAUCE:

  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 3 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

FOR THE RICE BAKE:

  • 1 cup uncooked white rice (long grain or jasmine)
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas (no need to thaw)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare – Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Make the Meatballs – Combine meatball ingredients, form small meatballs, and sear in a skillet.
  3. Prepare the Sauce – Combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, water, and garlic in a saucepan, thicken if desired.
  4. Assemble the Bake – Spread rice in the dish, add veggies, nestle meatballs, pour broth, and sauce over the top.
  5. Bake to Perfection – Cover with foil, bake for 40 minutes, then uncover and bake for 10-15 more minutes.
  6. Garnish and Serve – Let rest, then sprinkle with green onions before serving.

Notes

  • You can customize the veggies in the bake based on your preferences.
  • Ensure the meatballs are cooked through before serving.
  • This dish reheats well for leftovers.

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