Ingredients
For the meatballs:
500 g ground beef (or mix of beef and chicken)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 tbsp milk
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dried oregano
For the garlic butter glaze:
3 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the meatball mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, parsley, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Shape the meatballs
Roll the mixture into small balls (about the size of a walnut). You should get around 18–22 meatballs depending on size.
Cook the meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and fully cooked inside. Remove and set aside.
Make the garlic butter glaze
In the same pan, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and chili flakes.
Coat the meatballs
Return the cooked meatballs to the pan and toss them in the sauce until fully coated and glossy. Let them simmer for 2–3 minutes so they absorb the flavor.
Serve
Transfer to a plate, spoon extra sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for Best Results
Use slightly fatty meat (like 80/20 beef) for juicier meatballs.
Wet your hands before shaping to prevent sticking.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—this helps achieve a nice golden crust.
For extra flavor, you can add grated parmesan to the meat mixture.
If unsure about doneness, cut one meatball open—it should be fully cooked with no pink center.
Variations
Cheesy Meatballs: Add small cubes of mozzarella inside each meatball for a melted center.
Spicy Version: Increase chili flakes or add a bit of hot sauce to the glaze.
Healthy Option: Bake the meatballs in the oven at 200°C for 18–20 minutes instead of frying.
Asian Twist: Add ginger and replace parsley with green onions; use teriyaki instead of honey.
Creamy Garlic Sauce: Add 2 tbsp cream to the glaze for a richer texture.
Serving Ideas
Serve these meatballs with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or even inside sandwiches. They also work great as a party appetizer with toothpick
