Teriyaki Meatball Broccoli Kebabs: A Vibrant Grilled Skewer Feast
Sweet-savory glaze transforms morsels and veggies into an easy crowd-pleasing dish.
Teriyaki Meatball Broccoli Kebabs: Flavorful Grilling Made Simple
Bring a lively twist to the dinner table with Teriyaki Meatball Broccoli Kebabs. Skewered and grilled, these kebabs combine juicy homemade beef meatballs with fresh-cut broccoli, bell peppers, and onions—all glazed in a sweet, savory teriyaki sauce. This dish offers a playful alternative to classic burgers and is ideal for summer cookouts or easy weeknight dinners.
Why You’ll Love These Kebabs
- Balanced flavors: Savory beef, crisp veggies, and a sweet teriyaki glaze.
- Interactive cooking: Fun to assemble and perfect for grilling season.
- Vegetable-forward: Encourages eating more veggies in a delicious package.
- Customizable: Switch up the meat or add other veggies as you like.
Ingredients
To create mouthwatering Teriyaki Meatball Broccoli Kebabs, gather the following:
- Meatballs:
- 1 1/2 lb. ground beef
- 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp. ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 shallot, finely diced
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1 cup mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup sugar
- Vegetables:
- 2 broccoli heads, cut into large florets
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- White rice, as side (optional)
Step-by-Step Directions
Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, egg, and shallot. Add panko breadcrumbs and gently mix until just combined. Shape mixture into about 24 small meatballs, each about 1 inch in diameter. Arrange meatballs on a baking sheet, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape while grilling.
Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine mirin, soy sauce, and sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook until the sauce thickens slightly (about 20 minutes). Once thickened, set aside 1/2 cup for brushing during grilling and reserve the remainder for serving with the finished kebabs.
Prepare Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning. Thread meatballs, broccoli florets, red onion chunks, and bell pepper chunks onto 8 skewers, alternating the ingredients for visual appeal and even cooking.
Grill the Kebabs
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place skewers on the grill, cover, and cook for about 4 minutes per side, until meatballs are browned. Brush kebabs with the reserved teriyaki sauce, turning to coat everything. Continue grilling uncovered, rotating occasionally, until meatballs are dark brown and lightly charred (about 5 additional minutes).
Finish and Serve
Transfer finished kebabs to a platter. Drizzle with some remaining teriyaki sauce and sprinkle with sliced scallions. Serve hot, paired with steamed white rice and extra sauce on the side.
Tips for Success
- Chill the meatballs before grilling to help them keep their shape.
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; gentle mixing ensures tender results.
- Cut veggies evenly for consistent grilling and appealing presentation.
- Rotate skewers for even browning and caramelization.
- Use fresh ingredients: Crisp broccoli and brightly colored peppers yield the best kebabs.
Teriyaki Sauce Perfection
The homemade teriyaki sauce sets these kebabs apart from typical grilled dishes. The sauce is a classic blend of sweet mirin, salty soy sauce, and sugar, simmered until thick and glossy. Not only does it add bold umami to the meatballs and vegetables, but it also caramelizes beautifully on the grill—creating irresistible char and flavor depth.
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Options:
- Swap ground beef for ground chicken, turkey, or pork.
- Make vegetarian meatballs using lentils, chickpeas, or tofu.
- Veggie Additions:
- Include mushrooms, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or baby corn for variety.
- Try broccolini for a more tender bite.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko and tamari in place of regular breadcrumbs and soy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve kebabs hot off the grill with a side of steamed jasmine or white rice for a complete meal.
- Offer extra teriyaki sauce in a small bowl for dipping.
- Pair with a crisp cabbage or cucumber salad for added freshness.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
| Component | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Broccoli | Rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, folate, and antioxidants. |
| Beef meatballs | Source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12. |
| Bell peppers | High in vitamin A, vitamin C, and phytonutrients. |
| Homemade sauce | Lower in additives compared to store-bought teriyaki sauces. |
What others are reading
By combining these ingredients, the kebabs offer a balanced nutritional profile. Using lean cuts of ground meat and packing skewers with vegetables keeps the meal healthier.
Perfect Occasions for Teriyaki Meatball Broccoli Kebabs
- Family dinners
- Summer BBQs and cookouts
- Potluck gatherings
- Easy weeknight meals
- Meal prepping (they reheat well for lunch)
Common Questions About Teriyaki Meatball Broccoli Kebabs
Q: Can these kebabs be made ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble the meatballs and vegetables on skewers in advance, refrigerate, and grill when ready. The sauce can also be made a day ahead.
Q: Is it possible to bake instead of grill?
A: Absolutely. Arrange kebabs on a lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 15–20 minutes, turning at least once and brushing with sauce partway through.
Q: What should I do if my meatballs fall off the skewers?
A: Chill the meatballs thoroughly before skewering and use sturdy skewers. If grilling is difficult, try baking meatballs and threading them onto the skewers afterward.
Q: How do I adjust the spice level?
A: Vary the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste. For extra heat, serve with a spicy chili sauce or Sriracha.
Q: Can I freeze the meatballs?
A: Yes, uncooked meatballs can be frozen on a tray, then stored in an airtight bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before grilling or baking.
Expert Tips for Grilling Kebabs
- Direct heat: Grill over direct heat for a nice char, but move to indirect heat for slower cooking if needed.
- Prevent sticking: Oil grates lightly before grilling.
- Uniform size: Keep meatballs and veggies roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Rest before serving: Allow kebabs to sit a few minutes after grilling for juices to redistribute.
Broccoli’s Versatility in Kebabs and Beyond
Broccoli isn’t just for steaming or tossing into casseroles. Its sturdy florets hold up well to grilling, absorbing the flavors of the sauce and char. Explore more broccoli-inspired ideas:
- Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Broccoli
- Broccoli Salad
- Roasted Broccoli with Parmesan
- Chicken Teriyaki with Broccoli
Kid-Friendly and Family Approved
These kebabs are designed to appeal to all ages. Using fun, colorful skewers encourages kids to try more vegetables, while the sweet teriyaki glaze makes everything taste better. Serve with simple sides and let kids help assemble the skewers for a meal that’s both interactive and healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long should the skewers soak before grilling?
A: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.
Q2: Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
A: Yes, but homemade provides richer flavor and fewer additives. If using bottled sauce, adjust sugar as needed.
Q3: Can these kebabs be made vegetarian?
A: Substitute beef meatballs with plant-based alternatives formed from beans, tofu, or vegan meatball mixes.
Q4: What’s the best rice to serve alongside?
A: Jasmine or white rice is ideal, but brown rice or fried rice also pair beautifully.
Q5: How do I make kebabs for a large crowd?
A: Double the ingredient quantities and use two grills or bake multiples at once in the oven.
Conclusion: Bring Teriyaki Meatball Broccoli Kebabs to Your Table
With a delicious combination of homemade beef meatballs, crisp veggies, and sweet-savory teriyaki sauce, these Teriyaki Meatball Broccoli Kebabs are guaranteed to be a hit at any meal. Customize your skewers, play with flavors, and enjoy interactive grilling that’s fun for families and perfect for gatherings. When you’re craving something exciting, healthy, and loaded with flavor, these kebabs stand out as a vibrant main dish with an unmistakable twist.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a43967559/teriyaki-meatball-broccoli-kebabs-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g37014724/broccoli-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g60295578/healthy-summer-dinner-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g32188535/best-grilling-recipes/
Similar Articles
Read full bio of medha deb
