Sweet and Spicy Meatballs are a fun twist on a classic dish! These tasty meatballs are packed with flavor from a mix of sweet and spicy sauces that make them super delicious.
I’m always amazed at how easy they are to whip up. Perfect for game day or a cozy dinner, they are sure to make everyone smile—especially when you serve them with toothpicks for a quick snack! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef/Pork: Using a mix of beef and pork adds flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, you can substitute with plant-based ground meat or cook lentils and mash them.
Bread Crumbs: These help bind the meatballs together. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or use crushed cornflakes instead. I often use panko for a lighter texture!
Milk: Regular milk helps keep the meatballs moist. You can substitute with almond or oat milk if you’re lactose intolerant or want a dairy-free option.
Sriracha: This adds the spice! Adjust the amount to your heat preference; you can use any hot sauce you like or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a milder kick.
Fresh Parsley: This adds freshness and color. If parsley isn’t your favorite, basil or cilantro can work well as substitutes, adding a different twist to the flavor.
How Can You Ensure Your Meatballs Are Perfectly Cooked?
The key to great meatballs is in how you cook them! Browning them in olive oil adds flavor, but be careful not to overcrowd the skillet, or they won’t brown evenly.
- Preheat the skillet with oil over medium heat; make sure it’s hot before adding meatballs.
- Cook in batches if necessary, keeping them at least an inch apart.
- Don’t rush the cooking; aim for 7-8 minutes to develop that nice brown crust.
- Simmer in the sauce afterwards to infuse flavor and ensure they’re cooked through.
Using a meat thermometer can help; aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for beef and pork. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make 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 milk
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For The Sweet and Spicy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1-2 tbsp sriracha or chili sauce (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger (optional)
- 1/4 cup water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of prep and cooking time. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes making the meatball mixture and shaping it, then around 15 to 20 minutes for cooking and simmering in the sauce. It’s quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in the milk for about 5 minutes until they are soft. This helps keep the meatballs moist. Once softened, add the ground meat, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix everything gently but thoroughly until it’s well combined.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
With your hands, shape the meat mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, making them about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Try to keep them all about the same size for even cooking!
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs to the skillet. If your skillet isn’t big enough, cook them in batches. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 7-8 minutes, then remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the ketchup, honey or brown sugar, soy sauce, sriracha (adjust for your heat preference), vinegar, garlic powder, ground ginger (if using), and water. Stir everything well until the sauce is mixed together nicely.
5. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Pour the sauce into the same skillet you used for the meatballs. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Then, return the meatballs to the skillet, gently tossing them to coat with the sauce. Let them simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the meatballs to cook through.
6. Serve Your Meatballs:
Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish. Spoon over any extra sauce and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color. Serve warm, either as delicious appetizers or alongside rice, noodles, or vegetables!
Enjoy your flavorful Sweet and Spicy Meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef or Pork?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. It will still provide excellent flavor, though the meatballs may be a bit drier, so consider adding a little extra milk or incorporating more spices to enhance taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Freeze the Meatballs?
Yes! You can freeze the meatballs before or after cooking. If freezing raw, shape them and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag, which helps prevent sticking. Cooked meatballs can be frozen in sauce and should be consumed within 3 months for best taste.
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness of the Sauce?
To adjust the heat, simply modify the amount of sriracha or chili sauce. You can start with just 1 tablespoon and taste the sauce before adding more. For a milder sauce, you can substitute the chili sauce with a sweet chili sauce or ketchup alone.
