These sweet and spicy meatballs are a tasty treat! Packed with flavor, they mix the perfect amount of sweet and a little kick. They make a fantastic appetizer or main dish.
I love serving them with toothpicks at parties. They disappear faster than I can keep them on the platter! Perfect for when you want something fun and flavorful.
Making these meatballs is easy too! Just mix, bake, and toss in the sauce. They’re great for sharing or enjoying all by yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: While I love using ground beef for its flavor, a mix of beef and pork gives extra juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too!
Breadcrumbs: You can use either plain or seasoned breadcrumbs. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free breadcrumbs or finely crushed nuts for a different texture.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice flavor, but you can omit it if you’re keeping it dairy-free! Nutritional yeast is a great vegan alternative for a cheesy flavor.
Hot Sauce: Adjust the amount to match your spice preference! If you prefer a milder sauce, you can skip it or substitute with BBQ sauce for sweetness without the heat.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Don’t Fall Apart?
Getting meatballs to hold together can sometimes be tricky. Here are some tips:
- Don’t overmix the meat! Just mix until combined.
- The egg acts as a binder, so ensure you include it. If you avoid eggs, try using ground flax or chia seeds mixed with water as an egg substitute.
- Make sure to chill your meatballs for at least 10 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape.
Following these tips will help you create meatballs that are flavorful and hold together nicely. Happy cooking!
Sweet and Spicy Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes or cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1-2 tsp hot sauce (adjust to desired spiciness)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional)
Garnish:
- Fresh chopped chives or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You will need about 15 minutes to mix and shape the meatballs, followed by 15-20 minutes of baking in the oven. It’s a quick dish that’s perfect for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so the meatballs don’t stick while cooking.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), minced garlic, chopped onion, egg, milk, salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes or cayenne pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to gently mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep your meatballs tender.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into bite-sized meatballs, around 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and golden brown. You can check for doneness by cutting one open; it should no longer be pink inside.
5. Make the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, let’s prepare the sauce! In a medium saucepan, mix together the ketchup, honey or brown sugar, soy sauce, hot sauce, vinegar, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the mixture starts to bubble and thickens slightly—this should take about 5 minutes.
6. Coat the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are baked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the hot sauce over them and gently toss to coat each meatball evenly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the meatballs with freshly chopped chives or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm, either as an appetizer, a party snack, or as a delicious main dish with rice or noodles.
Enjoy your delicious sweet and spicy meatballs! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe. Just be mindful to not overcook the meatballs, as turkey can tend to dry out faster than beef.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They also freeze well! Just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag without sauce; they can last for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make these meatballs gluten-free! Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or use finely crushed oats. Make sure to check that your sauces (like soy sauce) are also gluten-free.
What’s the Best Way to Adjust Spice Levels?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red chili flakes or cayenne pepper in the meatball mixture and hot sauce in the sauce. You can taste the sauce as it cooks and add more hot sauce incrementally if desired!