Sticky Teriyaki Meatballs with Sesame and Scallions

These easy Teriyaki Meatballs are tender, juicy, and glazed in a sweet-savory teriyaki sauce. Serve them over rice for a simple weeknight dinner, or arrange them with toothpicks for a crowd-pleasing appetizer at parties, holidays, or game day gatherings.

“I love recipes that work for multiple occasions — these meatballs are perfect for a busy weeknight or for bringing to a gathering with friends.”

– Becky

The sticky teriyaki glaze perfectly balances sweet and savory, coating each meatball for maximum flavor. This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients and a few handy shortcuts so you can enjoy lots of flavor with minimal effort. Whether you need a cozy dinner or an easy appetizer to share, these meatballs deliver.

If you enjoy quick recipes for entertaining, try other crowd-pleasers like Grape Jelly Meatballs, Baked Chicken Wings, Jalapeño Poppers, Creamy Ranch Dip, or Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip.

Ingredients You Will Need

• Ground beef: For juicy, flavorful meatballs. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Help bind the meat mixture and keep meatballs tender.
• Egg: Acts as a binder so meatballs hold their shape.
• Garlic and ginger: Provide the classic teriyaki aromatics and depth.
• Green onions: Add freshness and color.
• Soy sauce: Builds savory umami in the meat mixture.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning for balance.
• Optional — sesame seeds: A pretty garnish that adds a light crunch.

See the recipe card below for exact measurements.

Variations

• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes, a dash of sriracha, or chili garlic sauce to the glaze for heat.
• Shortcut: Use fully cooked frozen meatballs and toss them in the homemade teriyaki sauce to save time.
• Appetizer mode: Keep meatballs warm in a slow cooker and serve with toothpicks.
• Different proteins: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, pork, or a mix of pork and beef.

How to Make Teriyaki Meatballs

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko, egg, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, grated ginger, salt, and pepper.

2. Gently mix until just combined. Overmixing makes meatballs dense, so handle the mixture lightly.

3. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture per meatball and roll into even-sized balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake 15–18 minutes, or until meatballs register 160°F (71°C) internally and are cooked through.

5. While the meatballs bake, warm the teriyaki sauce in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it simmers gently.

6. Transfer the baked meatballs to the saucepan and gently toss to coat. Let them simmer 1–2 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the meatballs. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if you like.

Tips for the Best Teriyaki Meatballs

• Drain excess grease: Pat meatballs lightly with a paper towel before saucing to avoid a greasy finish.
• Handle gently: Overmixing the meat can make meatballs tough; combine ingredients until just incorporated.
• Uniform size: Roll meatballs the same size so they bake evenly.
• Reduce glaze: Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly for a glossy finish that clings well.
• Scale up: This recipe doubles easily and reheats well, making it great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

What to Serve With Teriyaki Meatballs

Popular serving ideas:

• Steamed white rice
• Fried rice
• Stir-fried or chilled noodles
• Steamed or roasted broccoli
• Roasted mixed vegetables
• Lettuce cups for a lighter presentation

For parties, keep the meatballs warm in a slow cooker and serve with toothpicks.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, adding a bit more sauce if needed.

FAQs

More Easy Party Appetizers

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Teriyaki Meatballs

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Dips

Oreo Dip

If you try this recipe, please leave a star rating and share your thoughts in the comments. Feedback is always appreciated!

Teriyaki Meatballs

These easy Teriyaki Meatballs are glazed with a sticky, sweet-savory sauce and packed with flavor. They’re made with simple ingredients and come together quickly—great for dinner or entertaining.

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Medium saucepan

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons green onions, finely sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce
• Optional garnish: sesame seeds and extra sliced green onions

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko, egg, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into even, bite-sized meatballs. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake 15–18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Meanwhile, warm the teriyaki sauce in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
6. When meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the saucepan and gently toss to coat. Simmer 1–2 minutes so the sauce thickens and adheres to the meatballs.
7. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.

Notes

• Remove excess grease: Blot meatballs briefly before saucing for a cleaner glaze.
• Avoid overmixing: Mix only until ingredients are combined to keep meatballs tender.
• Consistent sizing: Uniform meatballs ensure even baking.
• Thicken the sauce: Simmer the teriyaki briefly so it becomes glossy and coats the meat well.
• Make ahead: These freeze and reheat well—double the recipe for meal prep or guests.

Nutrition

Approximate per serving: Calories 271 kcal; Carbs 12 g; Protein 18 g; Fat 16 g; Sodium 2203 mg. Nutrition values are estimates and should be used as a guideline only.

Additional Info

Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American