Honey Garlic Meatball Rice Bake

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This Honey Garlic Meatball Rice Bake is a hearty and flavorful one-dish dinner that’s both family-friendly and easy to prep. Juicy meatballs are baked over a bed of garlicky, soy-honey infused rice for a savory-sweet combination that’s comforting and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together with minimal cleanup and loads of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• One-Dish Wonder: No need to cook rice or meatballs separately—everything bakes together.

• Meal-Prep Friendly: Make ahead and reheat for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

• Flavor Explosion: Sweet honey, tangy vinegar, umami-rich soy sauce, and garlicky goodness.

• Kid-Approved: Subtle flavors and hearty texture make this a family favorite.

Ingredients Breakdown

Main Components:

• Meatballs (1 lb, frozen or homemade): The protein base of the dish; already cooked to simplify the bake.

• White rice (1½ cups, uncooked): Absorbs all the delicious broth and flavor during baking.

Flavor Base:

• Chicken broth (3 cups): Cooks the rice and infuses it with savory depth.

• Garlic (4 cloves) & onion (1 small): Adds a rich aromatic base that balances the sweetness of the sauce.

Honey Garlic Sauce:

• Soy sauce (2 tbsp): Provides salty umami flavor.

• Honey (¼ cup): Brings sweetness and caramelizes during baking.

• Rice vinegar or lemon juice (1 tbsp): Adds brightness to balance the sweetness.

• Red pepper flakes (optional): Introduces subtle heat for those who enjoy a kick.

Fats & Finishers:

• Butter or olive oil (1 tbsp): Used to sauté and enhance flavor.

• Green onions or parsley (for garnish): Fresh and vibrant finish.

• Shredded cheese (optional): Adds a melty, golden top if broiled at the end.

Tips and Tricks:

• Use Jasmine or Basmati Rice for extra fragrance and fluff.

• Avoid Minute Rice—it will overcook and become mushy.

• Don’t Skip the Foil: Sealing the dish is essential for even rice cooking.

• Add Veggies: Bell peppers, broccoli, or peas can be added for a full meal in one.

Variations and Customizations:

• Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or chili paste to the sauce.

• Asian-Inspired: Stir in hoisin or sesame oil for deeper flavor.

• Cheesy Bake: Top with mozzarella or cheddar for a melty finish.

• Low Carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice (adjust liquid accordingly).

• Vegetarian Option: Use veggie meatballs and veggie broth.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Serve With:

  • Steamed broccoli or green beans

  • Asian-style slaw

  • Garlic naan or crusty bread

• Drink Pairings:

  • Iced green tea

  • Ginger ale

  • A light lager or sparkling water with citrus

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 2 months.

• Reheat: Microwave individual servings or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Popular Questions:

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but increase the baking time by 10–15 minutes and check for doneness before removing from the oven.

Do I need to thaw frozen meatballs first?

No need—just ensure they’re fully pre-cooked before baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish or two 9×13 pans for big gatherings.

Is it kid-friendly?

Definitely! The sweet and mild garlic sauce is a hit with picky eaters.

Honey Garlic Meatball Rice Bake

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Tender meatballs baked over garlicky, soy-honey rice—sweet, savory, and so easy! A one-pan wonder for busy nights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (450g) frozen or homemade fully cooked meatballs

• 1 ½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice

• 3 cups chicken broth

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• ¼ cup honey

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice

• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil

• Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

• Optional: 1 cup shredded cheese for topping

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

3. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter or heat olive oil.

4. Sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes, until fragrant and translucent.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

5. In the baking dish, combine:

   • Uncooked rice

   • Chicken broth

   • Sautéed garlic and onion

   • Soy sauce

   • Honey

   • Vinegar or lemon juice

   • Red pepper flakes (if using)

6. Stir well to evenly distribute ingredients.

Step 4: Add Meatballs

7. Nestle cooked meatballs into the rice mixture, spacing them evenly.

8. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam.

Step 5: Bake

9. Bake covered for 40–45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

10. Optional: Uncover, top with shredded cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

11. Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes.

12. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

• This recipe is highly customizable—feel free to adjust seasonings to match your family’s taste.

• For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your meatballs are gluten-free.

• Want more crunch? Sprinkle with crushed fried onions or panko before broiling.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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