Description
This sweet and savory honey garlic meatball casserole bakes up with tender rice and a flavorful sauce—all in one pan for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
1 lb cooked meatballs (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup water
½ cup honey
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon water (for slurry)
½ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer rice and broth: Spread uncooked rice in the dish, pour in chicken broth and water.
Add veggies (optional): Scatter frozen peas and carrots over the rice.
Place meatballs: Arrange cooked meatballs evenly on top.
Make sauce: In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Simmer. Mix cornstarch with 1 Tbsp water, then stir into sauce until thickened (1–2 minutes).
Pour sauce: Evenly pour over meatballs and rice.
Bake: Cover tightly with foil and bake 45–50 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Finish: Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
Protein swap: Use turkey, chicken, or plant-based meatballs.
Rice alternative: Try jasmine or brown rice—adjust liquid and cook time as needed.
Extra flavor: Add bell peppers or broccoli, or spice it up with chili oil.
Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate overnight; bake as usual.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, American
