Firecracker Meatballs Coconut Rice

Name: Firecracker Meatballs Coconut Rice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: Coconut Rice; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; 200 grams jasmine rice, rinsed and drained; 240 millilitres full-fat coconut milk; 180 millilitres water; Salt, to taste; Meatballs & Green Beans; 30 grams gluten-free panko breadcrumbs; 60 millilitres milk; 450 grams ground beef (85% lean); 4 scallions, sliced (whites and greens separated); 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger or 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 45 millilitres olive oil, divided; 450 grams fresh green beans, trimmed; Firecracker Sauce; 60 grams mayonnaise; 60 grams sour cream (dairy-free if preferred); 30 millilitres sriracha or buffalo sauce (to taste); 45 millilitres coconut aminos or low-sodium soy sauce; 15 millilitres honey; 10 millilitres rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar; Red chili flakes or Korean chili crunch, to taste

Author: Lora

Published: February 6, 2026

Print Recipe

Introduction to Firecracker Meatballs Coconut Rice

As a busy mom, I totally get it—life can often feel like a whirlwind. But what if I told you that you can whip up something extraordinary in less than an hour? Enter Firecracker Meatballs Coconut Rice! This vibrant dish combines juicy meatballs with creamy coconut rice and crisp green beans, all drizzled with a zingy firecracker sauce. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but it’s also a delightful way to spark joy at the dinner table. Your family will think you’ve turned into a gourmet chef, all while keeping your sanity in check!

Why You’ll Love This Firecracker Meatballs Coconut Rice

This Firecracker Meatballs Coconut Rice dish is a lifesaver for busy evenings. With a quick prep time of just 20 minutes, you can have dinner on the table in no time. The flavors are bursting with personality, as the spice of the meatballs dances with the rich coconut rice. Plus, it’s customizable to your family’s taste—whether you prefer it mild or with an extra kick, it’s sure to please everyone!

Ingredients for Firecracker Meatballs Coconut Rice

To create your culinary masterpiece, here’s what you’ll need for this Firecracker Meatballs Coconut Rice. Each ingredient plays a vital role, adding layers of flavor and texture to the dish.

Coconut Rice: A fragrant base made with jasmine rice, coconut milk, and water, this rice is not just a side but an absolute star.
Sesame Oil: A splash of this oil brings a nutty richness to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Sesame Seeds: Toasted to golden perfection, these add a delightful crunch and depth to both the rice and meatballs.

Jasmine Rice: This aromatic rice is fluffy and pairs beautifully with the coconut milk, providing a satisfying bite.
Full-Fat Coconut Milk: It infuses the rice with a creamy, tropical twist, making every spoonful a taste of paradise.
Water: Essential for cooking the rice; it balances the richness of the coconut milk.

Salt: A pinch is all you need to elevate the flavors—don’t skip this ingredient!
Meatballs & Green Beans: Juicy ground beef meatballs and fresh green beans meld together perfectly to complete this dish.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a light, crispy texture to the meatballs; gluten-free options are available if needed.

Milk: Used to soak the breadcrumbs, it ensures the meatballs are tender and moist.
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthy kick, or substitute with a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian option.
Scallions: Their green parts brighten up the dish, while the white parts add a mild onion flavor.

Ginger: Freshly grated or ground, ginger adds warmth and a fragrant zing to your meatballs.
Garlic: Minced garlic contributes a savory depth that’s hard to resist.
Kosher Salt: This specific type enhances the flavor better than table salt would!

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: These spice things up, but feel free to adjust to your desired heat level.
Olive Oil: Essential for cooking the meatballs and green beans, offering a healthy fat source.
Fresh Green Beans: These provide a crisp counterbalance to the richness of the meatballs and rice.

Firecracker Sauce: A blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, sriracha or buffalo sauce, coconut aminos or soy sauce, honey, and vinegar—this sauce adds the finishing touch of zing!
Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the dish; feel free to use maple syrup if preferred!
Rice Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar: Offers a tangy brightness that rounds out the sauce beautifully.

Red Chili Flakes or Korean Chili Crunch: These are optional for garnishing but ramp up the flavor and visual appeal.

For exact measurements, check the list at the bottom of the article. Happy cooking!

How to Make Firecracker Meatballs Coconut Rice

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Let’s get started by preheating your oven to 220°C (about 425°F). This ensures that your meatballs cook evenly and develop a nice golden-brown exterior. While the oven warms up, take a moment to lightly oil a sheet pan or line it with parchment paper. This little step will save you time on cleanup later, making your cooking experience more enjoyable!

Step 2: Prepare the Coconut Rice

Now it’s time to make that mouthwatering coconut rice! In a medium skillet, heat a tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Toss in your sesame seeds and toast them for 1 to 2 minutes until they’re golden and fragrant. Next, stir in 200 grams of rinsed jasmine rice, 240 milliliters of full-fat coconut milk, and 180 milliliters of water. Add a pinch of salt, and bring everything to a boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender and fluffy!

Step 3: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, take 30 grams of gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and soak them in 60 milliliters of milk for about 5 minutes. This soaking ensures your meatballs stay tender. Once softened, add 450 grams of ground beef, sliced scallion whites, minced garlic, grated ginger, kosher salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix everything thoroughly with your hands or a spatula until well combined. It’s messy but oh-so-rewarding!

Step 4: Form and Place the Meatballs

Next, grab your seasoned mixture and roll it into meatballs, about 4 centimeters in diameter. A useful tip is to wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking! Once shaped, place the meatballs on one side of your prepared sheet pan. Toss 450 grams of fresh green beans with a tablespoon of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, then arrange them on the other side of the pan. This arrangement allows everything to cook beautifully together!

Step 5: Bake Meatballs and Green Beans

Now, it’s baking time! Slide the sheet pan into your preheated oven on the top rack. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and have reached an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Your green beans should be bright and crisp-tender. Got a meat thermometer? This is a great time to use it!

Step 6: Make the Firecracker Sauce

While everything bakes, let’s whip up that spicy firecracker sauce! In a bowl, combine 60 grams of mayonnaise, 60 grams of sour cream, 30 milliliters of sriracha or buffalo sauce, 45 milliliters of coconut aminos, 15 milliliters of honey, and 10 milliliters of rice or apple cider vinegar. Whisk the ingredients together until they’re smooth and creamy, adjusting the sriracha to your preferred level of heat. This sauce adds the perfect kick!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Now for the fun part—serving! Fluff your coconut rice and divide it between serving bowls. Arrange the juicy meatballs and crisp green beans on top, then drizzle with your spicy firecracker sauce. For an extra touch, garnish with the scallion greens, toasted sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of chili crunch. Your dinner is not just a meal; it’s a delicious masterpiece!

Tips for Success

Prep ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
Soak breadcrumbs long enough for meatballs to stay moist and light—don’t rush!
Use a cookie scoop for even-sized meatballs; they’ll cook uniformly.

Experiment with the firecracker sauce; adjust sriracha to suit your family’s tastebuds.
Don’t skip the garnishes—they add color and an extra burst of flavor!

Equipment Needed

Sheet Pan: A large baking sheet will do, but a cast iron skillet can work too.

Medium Skillet: Ideally non-stick for easy cooking and cleanup.
Mixing Bowl: Any size will work, just enough for combining your meatball ingredients.
Meat Thermometer: Useful for ensuring meatballs are cooked thoroughly.
Whisk: A standard whisk or even a fork for mixing the firecracker sauce.

Variations of Firecracker Meatballs Coconut Rice

Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative. It still holds the flavor and texture!

Extra Crunch: Add some chopped nuts like cashews or peanuts to the meatball mixture for an added bite.
Spicy Upgrade: For those who love heat, mix in some diced jalapeños or increase the crushed red pepper flakes in the meatball mix.
Rice Alternatives: Use quinoa or brown rice instead of jasmine rice for a different texture and added health benefits.

Herbed Coconut Rice: Enhance the coconut rice with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a refreshing twist.
Fruit Infusion: Add raisins or chopped pineapple to the coconut rice for a hint of sweetness that pairs well with the savory meatballs.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy for extra veggies.
For drinks, consider a chilled coconut water or a fruity iced tea.
Present on colorful plates to enhance the vibrant colors of your dish.

Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs as a final touch for visual appeal!

FAQs about Firecracker Meatballs Coconut Rice

Can I make Firecracker Meatballs Coconut Rice ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them. Just thaw and bake them when you’re ready for a quick family meal. The coconut rice can be made earlier too; just reheat it before serving.

What if I have picky eaters?

No worries! You can adjust the spice levels in the firecracker sauce, and your family can add toppings as they like. Consider serving the sauce on the side for those who prefer milder flavors.

Are there gluten-free options?

Yes! This recipe already uses gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and coconut aminos or low-sodium soy sauce. Double-check your breadcrumbs to ensure they’re labeled gluten-free!

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers are perfect for lunch! Store the meatballs, coconut rice, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before enjoying!

Can I substitute the ground beef?

Definitely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives to suit dietary preferences. Each option will add its unique twist to the Firecracker Meatballs Coconut Rice!

Final Thoughts

Cooking should feel like a joyful adventure, and Firecracker Meatballs Coconut Rice truly embodies this spirit. It’s a dish that brings together flavors, textures, and colors in a way that delights the senses. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just feeding your family on a busy night, this recipe is a winner. The excitement of the firecracker sauce paired with the creamy coconut rice creates a comforting harmony on your plate. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that allows for creativity as you adapt it to your liking. Trust me; this dish will quickly become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire!