Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

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Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli deliver bold Asian-inspired flavor in one cozy skillet. Juicy meatballs are coated in a glossy, sweet-and-savory Mongolian glaze and paired with tender-crisp broccoli, making this a weeknight dinner that feels like a takeout treat without the delivery fee. It’s hearty, sticky, saucy, and everything you crave when comfort meets umami.

With pantry-friendly ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe transforms ground beef into something spectacular. Served over a bed of steamed rice or noodles, it becomes a satisfying meal with balanced protein, greens, and irresistible sauce. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or feeding a hungry crew, this dish is both fuss-free and flavor-packed.

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What Kind of Ground Meat Works Best?

While beef is a classic choice for its deep flavor and rich texture, you can easily substitute ground chicken or turkey for a leaner version. Just be mindful of cooking times—leaner meats may need less time to avoid drying out. For a plant-based version, meatless meatballs hold up well with the Mongolian glaze, offering flexibility for different diets.

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Ingredients for the Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Ground Beef: The foundation of your meatballs. Opt for 80/20 for juiciness, or go lean if you prefer.

Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs and keep them tender.

Egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together.

Garlic and Ginger: Essential aromatics for that bold Asian flavor.

Soy Sauce: Adds saltiness and depth to both the meatballs and sauce.

Brown Sugar: Balances the soy with sweetness and helps create that signature sticky glaze.

Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to coat the meatballs beautifully.

Broccoli Florets: For a burst of color, crunch, and nutrition.

Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: A final garnish to add freshness and texture.

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How To Make the Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Step 1: Mix and Roll the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a splash of soy sauce. Mix just until combined, then form into small meatballs.

Step 2: Sear the Meatballs

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and brown on all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this point.

Step 3: Whisk the Sauce

In a bowl or measuring cup, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, water, and cornstarch until smooth. This is your sticky Mongolian sauce.

Step 4: Simmer and Glaze

Return all meatballs to the skillet. Pour in the sauce and bring to a simmer. Let it bubble and thicken, coating the meatballs with a glossy glaze.

Step 5: Add the Broccoli

Toss in the broccoli florets and cover the pan for a few minutes to steam. Cook just until bright green and tender-crisp.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds on top. Serve hot over rice or noodles, and spoon extra sauce over everything.

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How to Serve and Store Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli

Serve this dish piping hot, ideally over fluffy jasmine rice or lo mein noodles to soak up the rich sauce. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or rewarm in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen the glaze. It’s also freezer-friendly for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.

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What to Serve With Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli?

Steamed White Rice

A classic base that lets the sauce shine.

Garlic Fried Rice

For extra punch, stir-fried rice with garlic and green onions adds depth.

Egg Rolls

A crispy appetizer that complements the sticky, saucy main.

Cucumber Salad

Something cool and crunchy to balance the richness.

Pickled Carrots or Daikon

These cut through the sweetness and refresh the palate.

Pineapple Fried Rice

Add a tropical twist with fruity sweetness and color.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with Big Flavor?

If you love this bold skillet dinner, here are a few more crave-worthy dishes to try next:

• Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with a golden crust and creamy gravy.
• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup that warms from the inside out.
• Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni for another rich and saucy comfort meal.
• Easy Beef Stroganoff when you’re craving creamy nostalgia.
• Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings for effortless comfort food.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe you added chili flakes for heat or tossed in extra veggies? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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