Why Make This Recipe

Banh Mi Meatballs are perfect for anyone looking to impress guests with minimal effort. These small yet flavorful bites bring a mix of vibrant textures and tastes, inspired by classic Vietnamese street food. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, at a party, or for dinner, they are sure to be a hit. Plus, they are quick to prepare, making them an ideal choice for weeknight meals.

How to Make Banh Mi Meatballs

Ingredients:

1 lb Mini or Regular Size Pork Meatballs (or beef)
1/2 cup Sweet Chili Sauce
1/4 cup Low-Sodium Teriyaki Sauce
1 tbsp Fish Sauce
1 cup Shredded Carrot
1/2 cup Chopped Cilantro
1 ea Thinly Sliced Jalapeño (adjust per heat tolerance)
1/4 cup Chopped Mint (optional)
1/4 cup Pickled Red Onions (optional)
2 ea Lime Wedges (for serving)

Directions:

Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the mini or regular size meatballs. Cook until they are browned on the outside and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
Make the Sauce: While the meatballs are cooking, combine sweet chili sauce, teriyaki sauce, and fish sauce in a bowl. Stir until well mixed.
Add Sauce to Meatballs: Once the meatballs are cooked, pour the sauce mixture over them. Toss gently to coat the meatballs evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Prepare Toppings: In a separate bowl, mix shredded carrot, chopped cilantro, jalapeño, mint (if using), and pickled red onions (if using).
Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over everything just before serving.

How to Serve Banh Mi Meatballs

Serve Banh Mi Meatballs warm. Place them on a platter and top with the fresh vegetable mixture for a pop of color and crunch. Provide lime wedges on the side for extra zest. They can be enjoyed on their own or served with small bistro rolls as sliders.

How to Store Banh Mi Meatballs

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick option.

Tips to Make Banh Mi Meatballs

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables make a big difference in flavor. Try to use fresh cilantro and jalapeños for the best taste.
Adjust Spiciness: If you don’t enjoy too much heat, reduce the amount of jalapeño or leave it out entirely.
Experiment with Meat: If you’re not a fan of pork, feel free to substitute the meatballs with chicken or beef.

Variation

For a vegetarian option, you can swap the meatballs for plant-based meat alternatives or use a mixture of cooked lentils and spices to create a flavorful version of this dish.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook them.

Q: Can I freeze Banh Mi Meatballs?
A: Absolutely! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Q: What can I serve with Banh Mi Meatballs?
A: These meatballs pair beautifully with rice or noodles for a full meal, or you can serve them with a simple salad to keep it light.