I make these teriyaki meatball-broccoli kebabs when I want a fun and flavorful meal that feels both hearty and fresh. Juicy meatballs are brushed with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, then paired with tender-crisp broccoli on skewers. I love how this recipe turns simple ingredients into something colorful and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy these kebabs are to assemble and cook. The combination of tender meatballs and roasted broccoli gives me a perfect balance of protein and vegetables in every bite. I also enjoy how the teriyaki sauce caramelizes slightly in the oven or on the grill, adding rich flavor. This recipe works well for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
3 cups broccoli florets
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
skewers (wooden or metal)
Directions
I start by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C) or preparing my grill over medium heat. If I use wooden skewers, I soak them in water for at least 20 minutes.
In a mixing bowl, I combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and ginger powder. I mix until everything is just combined, then shape the mixture into small meatballs.
I arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake them for about 12–15 minutes, or until cooked through. If I am grilling, I cook them until fully done and nicely browned.
While the meatballs cook, I toss the broccoli florets with olive oil and a light sprinkle of salt. I roast them in the oven for about 10 minutes until they are tender but still bright green, or grill them briefly for a slight char.
Once the meatballs are cooked, I thread them onto skewers, alternating with broccoli florets. I brush everything generously with teriyaki sauce and return the skewers to the oven or grill for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to warm and lightly caramelize.
I finish by sprinkling sesame seeds over the kebabs before serving.
Servings and timing
I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: about 35 minutes
Variations
I sometimes use ground chicken instead of beef or turkey. If I want extra flavor, I add a splash of soy sauce or chopped green onions to the meatball mixture. For a sweeter glaze, I mix a little honey into the teriyaki sauce. I also enjoy adding chunks of bell peppers or red onion to the skewers for more color.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the meatballs gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes or microwave them until heated through. I sometimes brush on a little extra teriyaki sauce before reheating to keep them moist.
FAQs
Can I cook the meatballs entirely on the grill?
I grill the meatballs over medium heat, turning them frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
Can I use frozen meatballs?
I use fully cooked frozen meatballs when I need to save time. I heat them according to package instructions before threading them onto skewers and glazing with sauce.
How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?
I make sure to include the egg and breadcrumbs, which help bind the mixture. I also avoid overmixing.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
I prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, I assemble the skewers and warm them with the teriyaki glaze.
What can I serve with these kebabs?
I like serving them over steamed rice, alongside quinoa, or with a simple cucumber salad.
Conclusion
I find these teriyaki meatball-broccoli kebabs to be a flavorful and versatile meal that is both easy and satisfying. The savory glaze, tender meatballs, and crisp broccoli create a combination I enjoy making again and again. Whether baked or grilled, this recipe always delivers delicious results in my kitchen.
