There’s a delightful surprise waiting for you in the kitchen with these Teriyaki Pork Meatballs. The savory aroma of ground pork mingled with fresh garlic and scallions fills the air, instantly transforming your home into a cozy haven. The magic happens when you coat these tender morsels in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce that makes each bite feel like a celebration.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a week when my usual meals had grown stale, leaving my taste buds longing for excitement. It only took one batch of these crowd-pleasing meatballs to become my new go-to for dinner parties and weeknight meals alike. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal kitchen fuss, you can whip up a dish that not only impresses but also redefines comfort food. Grab your skillet and let’s bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table!
Why are Teriyaki Pork Meatballs a must-try?
Simplicity at its best: This recipe requires minimal prep and cooking skills, making it perfect for busy nights.
Savory, Sweet Blend: The combination of teriyaki sauce and fresh ingredients creates a harmonious flavor profile that’s irresistible.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, these meatballs will win over guests and family alike.
Versatile Servings: Enjoy them over rice, in lettuce wraps, or on their own—there’s no wrong way to savor them!
Quick Cooking: With a total time of just 25 minutes, get a homemade meal on the table without the wait.
Teriyaki Pork Meatballs Ingredients
• Get ready to explore flavors!
For the Meatballs
- Ground pork – This tender and juicy base creates a delightful texture in every bite.
- Yellow onion, minced – Adds a savory depth that enhances the overall flavor.
- Scallion, finely chopped – Provides a fresh, mild onion taste that brightens the dish.
- Garlic cloves, minced – Essential for a robust flavor that brings the meatballs to life.
- Egg – Acts as a binder to keep your meatballs moist and cohesive.
- Plain panko breadcrumbs – Use these for extra crunch and tenderness in your meatballs.
For the Sauce
- Garlic cloves, minced (for the sauce) – Extra garlic always elevates the flavor profile!
- Low sodium soy sauce – The foundation of your teriyaki flavor, lower in sodium for a healthier option.
- Maple syrup – This natural sweetener balances the savory soy sauce beautifully.
- Rice vinegar – Adds a pleasant tang that cuts through the sweetness for harmony.
- Ginger, grated – A touch of spice that brings warmth and zest to the sauce.
- Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce, ensuring it coats your Teriyaki Pork Meatballs perfectly.
For Garnish
- Scallions – A pop of color and crunch makes for an appealing dish.
- Sesame seeds – These little seeds offer a lovely nutty flavor and nice presentation.
How to Make Teriyaki Pork Meatballs
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Preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures your meatballs will cook evenly and develop that delicious golden crust.
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Combine the ground pork, minced onion, chopped scallion, garlic, egg, and panko breadcrumbs in a large bowl. Mix gently until everything is well blended—don’t overmix for tender meatballs!
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Form the mixture into approximately 18 meatballs, each about a golf ball size. Place them in a large oven-safe skillet, giving them a little space to breathe and cook evenly.
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Spray the skillet with nonstick spray, then sauté the meatballs over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until they are nice and golden brown on all sides. This step adds flavor and a lovely texture.
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Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes or until they are fully cooked—aim for an internal temperature of 160°F.
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Whisk together the sauce ingredients (except the minced garlic) in a bowl. Combine the soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, ginger, and cornstarch until smooth.
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Sauté the remaining minced garlic in the skillet over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes after the meatballs are baked, allowing the flavor to infuse the skillet.
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Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet, then stir until it thickens beautifully and coats your meatballs in that irresistible teriyaki glaze.
Optional: Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Teriyaki Pork Meatballs?
Elevate your dinner experience with delightful pairings that enhance the unforgettable flavors of these tender meatballs.
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Jasmine Rice: The light and fragrant rice absorbs the flavorful teriyaki sauce, providing a perfectly balanced base.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds freshness and crunch, complementing the meatballs beautifully.
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Crispy Asian Slaw: This refreshing, tangy slaw brightens up the meal with its crisp texture and vibrant flavors, creating a perfect contrast.
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Sesame Noodles: Noodles tossed in sesame oil and soy sauce create a delightful, savory side that matches the meatballs’ sweetness perfectly.
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Steamed Bok Choy: This tender green is not only visually appealing but also offers a subtle bitterness that balances the rich flavors of the sauce.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: For those who love a bit of heat, a drizzle of sweet chili sauce on the side adds an exciting kick.
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Ginger-Lemonade: This refreshing drink combines zesty ginger with sweet and tangy lemonade, making it a perfect companion to the savory meatballs.
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Mango Sorbet: End your meal on a light note with this sweet, fruity sorbet that cleanses the palate beautifully after the rich flavors of the meatballs.
Make Ahead Options
These Teriyaki Pork Meatballs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can mix the meatball ingredients and form the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance; just cover them tightly and refrigerate to keep everything fresh. The sauce can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to cook, simply sauté and bake the meatballs, then add the sauce and allow it to thicken. This method ensures you have a delicious, homemade meal ready to go at a moment’s notice, making your weeknights stress-free and flavorful!
How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Pork Meatballs
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures your savory Teriyaki Pork Meatballs stay fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or sauce to maintain moisture while reheating.
Wrapping: For best quality, wrap individual meatballs tightly in plastic wrap before freezing to prevent freezer burn.
Expert Tips for Teriyaki Pork Meatballs
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Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture. Gently combine the ingredients to keep them tender and avoid a tough texture.
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Sauté First: Searing the meatballs before baking not only enhances the flavor but also creates a beautiful crust that locks in moisture.
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Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safety; this ensures perfectly cooked Teriyaki Pork Meatballs every time.
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Sauce Thickness: If your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, let it simmer a bit longer after adding to the skillet. The cornstarch should do the trick!
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Customize Flavors: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients based on your taste preference; add more ginger for a spicier kick or increase the maple syrup for added sweetness.
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Storage: Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal!
Teriyaki Pork Meatballs Twists
Feel free to explore these delicious variations that can take your Teriyaki Pork Meatballs to the next level!
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Low-Carb: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of pork to cut down on carbs and maintain a light, juicy texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili flakes to the meat mixture for a flavorful heat that will tickle your taste buds!
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Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil mixed into the meatballs for a vibrant, aromatic flavor twist.
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Gluten-Free: Swap panko breadcrumbs for crushed gluten-free crackers or coconut flour to create a safe and delicious option for those avoiding gluten.
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely grated zucchini or carrots into the meat mixture to sneak in extra veggies without sacrificing flavor or moisture.
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Sweet and Tangy: Add 1 tablespoon of pineapple juice to the teriyaki sauce for a tropical-inspired sweetness that enhances the overall taste.
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Honey Ginger: Replace maple syrup with honey in the sauce for a richer sweetness and consider adding more ginger for an aromatic zing.
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Baked vs. Fried: For a crispy version, pan-fry the meatballs in oil until browned before adding them to the sauce. This yields a delightful crunch in every bite!
With these fun twists, you can keep the flavor exciting! Enjoy customizing your Teriyaki Pork Meatballs for every occasion.
Teriyaki Pork Meatballs Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground pork should I use for the meatballs?
Absolutely! I recommend using ground pork with some fat content, around 20-30%. This fat helps to keep your Teriyaki Pork Meatballs juicy and flavorful. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can also work, though the texture will be slightly different.
How should I store leftover Teriyaki Pork Meatballs?
Leftover meatballs can easily be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For maximum freshness, be sure to let them cool completely before sealing. Enjoy the convenience of quick pre-cooked meals by simply reheating them on the stove or in the microwave!
Can I freeze Teriyaki Pork Meatballs?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first, arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. This method prevents them from sticking together, making it easier to grab just the amount you need later.
What if my sauce won’t thicken properly?
No worries! If your sauce isn’t thickening as expected, I suggest simmering it for a few extra minutes to allow the cornstarch to activate fully. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent sticking. If it’s still too thin, you can mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water, then add that mixture into the sauce while stirring until it reaches your desired consistency.
Are these meatballs suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Great question! If you have dietary concerns, you can tailor this recipe to fit your needs. For gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free panko. Always check labels for allergens, particularly for the soy sauce. Then you can enjoy Teriyaki Pork Meatballs with peace of mind!
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
It’s essential to ensure your meatballs are perfectly cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. If you don’t have one, simply cut into one of the meatballs; it should be no longer pink inside. Cooking them thoroughly ensures they’re safe and delicious!
Savory Teriyaki Pork Meatballs for a Dinner Win
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Combine the ground pork, minced onion, chopped scallion, garlic, egg, and panko breadcrumbs in a large bowl. Mix gently until well blended.
- Form the mixture into approximately 18 meatballs, each about a golf ball size.
- Spray the skillet with nonstick spray, then sauté the meatballs over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked.
- Whisk together the sauce ingredients (except the minced garlic) in a bowl until smooth.
- Sauté the remaining minced garlic in the skillet over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet, then stir until it thickens and coats the meatballs.
