Sesame Meatballs
Savory sesame meatballs feature tender beef filled with onions or olives, coated in toasted sesame seeds, making a flavorful appetizer or snack with Asian-inspired notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sugar, garlic salt, pepper, and soy sauce; blend well.
- Shape the mixture into 16 to 24 meatballs, inserting an onion or olive into the center of each.
- Coat each meatball with sesame seed.
- Place on a broiler pan and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, consider adding a tablespoon of hoisin sauce to the mixture. To ensure even cooking, make sure the meatballs are uniform in size. For added flavor, you can mix in chopped green onions or fresh ginger. Pair these meatballs with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sesame meatballs as an appetizer or main dish. They pair beautifully with steamed rice or noodles, and a side of stir-fried vegetables complements the flavors well. For a fun twist, try serving them with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and sesame oil. These meatballs would also work great in a platter alongside other appetizers like Gyoza.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them on medium heat in 30-second intervals, but be careful not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sesame Meatballs contains roughly 192 calories, with 6g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value), iron (11% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for these meatballs?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork as a substitute for the ground beef. Each will give a slightly different flavor and texture, so choose based on your preference. Just ensure that the meat is well-seasoned to maintain flavor.
What if I don’t have cocktail onions?
If cocktail onions are unavailable, you can use small pickles or olives as a tasty alternative. They add a nice tangy flavor and keep the meatballs juicy. Alternatively, you can skip the stuffing altogether and just enjoy the meatballs as they are.
Can I prepare these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can shape the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just make sure to freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag for easy access later.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).