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Honey Garlic Meatball Rice Bake

Honey Garlic Meatball Rice Bake


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

Description

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


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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


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

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

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

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

  1. 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)

  2. Stir well to evenly distribute ingredients.

Step 4: Add Meatballs

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

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

Step 5: Bake

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

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

Step 6: Serve

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

  2. 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