Honey Garlic Beef Meatball Rice Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Honey Garlic Beef Meatball Rice Bake is an irresistible blend of sweet and savory flavors. With juicy beef meatballs, fluffy rice, and a sticky honey garlic sauce, this dish is comfort food at its finest. It's an easy-to-make, all-in-one meal that's perfect for busy nights or family dinners. The warm, tender meatballs are coated in a rich, sticky sauce that pairs perfectly with the seasoned rice beneath. You’ll love the hearty portions, delicious flavors, and the simplicity of putting everything in one dish. It’s sure to be a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a leaner option)

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably jasmine or long-grain)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup honey

• ¼ cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 tablespoon tomato paste (or ketchup as an alternative)

• 1 cup broth (chicken or vegetable)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional for extra aroma)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer. Roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter).

3. Spread the cooked rice evenly at the bottom of a baking dish.

4. Arrange the meatballs on top of the rice.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, tomato paste, garlic, and broth. If you want a thicker sauce, mix in the cornstarch.

6. Pour the sauce evenly over the meatballs, ensuring they are all coated.

7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 40–45 minutes, removing the foil halfway through for a caramelized top.

8. If desired, broil for an additional 2 minutes at the end to crisp up the top.

9. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 40–45 minutes

• Total Time: 55–60 minutes

Variations

• Lean Version: Substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken.

• Gluten-Free: Use tamari in place of soy sauce.

• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based meatballs and vegetable broth.

• Rice Substitutes: You can use brown rice, but keep in mind it will need more liquid and a longer cooking time.

• Sweetness Variations: Maple syrup can replace honey for a different sweetness profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Assemble the dish, cool it, and freeze it in an airtight container. Bake directly from frozen with additional baking time (about 50–60 minutes).

• Reheating:

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 20 minutes.

  • Microwave: Heat in short bursts on medium heat. Add a splash of broth to prevent the dish from drying out.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires more liquid and a longer baking time. You may need to bake for an additional 10–15 minutes.

Q2: Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours for a similar result.

Q3: Is this freezer-friendly before baking?

Yes, you can assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze it. Bake it directly from frozen, but add extra time to the cooking process.

Q4: Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can use plant-based meatballs and vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Q5: What’s the best honey to use?

Raw or organic honey is ideal for the best flavor and health benefits.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe. Just use a larger baking dish and increase the cooking time by 10–15 minutes.

Q7: Can I use store-bought meatballs instead of homemade?

Yes, store-bought meatballs are a convenient option. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly and coat them in the honey garlic sauce for full flavor.

Q8: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots to the rice before baking for added color and nutrition.

Q9: How can I make the sauce thicker?

To make the sauce thicker, you can mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch or use less broth when making the sauce.

Q10: How do I get a crispy top for the meatballs?

If you prefer a crispy finish, remove the foil halfway through the baking process and broil the dish for 2 minutes at the end.

Conclusion

The Honey Garlic Beef Meatball Rice Bake is the perfect blend of convenience and flavor. With its easy preparation, rich flavors, and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your weekly meal rotation. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or a make-ahead meal, this dish checks all the boxes. Grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy the delicious combination of sweet and savory in every bite!

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