These sweet and spicy meatballs are the perfect mix of flavors! Made with ground meat, a touch of honey, and a kick of heat, they are sure to please everyone.
They’re super fun to make and even more fun to eat! I love serving them at parties, where they disappear in no time—who doesn’t love a tasty meatball? 😋
Plus, they are really simple to whip up. Just mix the ingredients, roll them into balls, and cook. They’re great with rice or on their own for a yummy snack!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using a blend of beef and pork for meatballs. It gives a nice flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work too, but keep in mind they may need a little extra seasoning.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs are great, but if you’re gluten-free, try almond flour or gluten-free bread crumbs. They also work well for binding the meat mixture.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and gloss. If you want a lower sugar option, maple syrup can be a nice substitute, though it may change the flavor slightly.
Sriracha: If you’re not a fan of Sriracha, any hot sauce will do! You could also try a bit of crushed red pepper for that spicy kick without the sauce.
How Do You Achieve the Best Meatball Texture?
Getting meatballs just right can be tricky. Here’s how to have them turn out tender and juicy:
- Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can make them tough.
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk first; this adds moisture. Let them sit for about 5 minutes for the best result.
- Shape the meatballs gently and avoid packing them too tight.
Cooking them in batches helps ensure they brown nicely and don’t steam. Lastly, letting them simmer in the sauce allows them to absorb all that delicious flavor!
Sweet And Spicy Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes or cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Sriracha or hot sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley leaves
Estimated Time:
This dish takes about 10 minutes for prep and another 15-20 minutes for cooking. Overall, you can have these delicious meatballs ready in about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner or awesome appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them soak for about 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs are nicely softened. This step helps keep your meatballs moist!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the ground beef, egg, minced garlic, chopped green onions, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Don’t overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
With clean hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a tray or plate once formed. This makes it easier to cook them in batches.
4. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to crowd the pan. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are cooked through and browned on the outside. Remove and set aside.
5. Make the Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, whisk together the ketchup, honey, soy sauce, vinegar, Sriracha, and sesame oil. Heat the sauce over medium heat until it comes to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Glaze the Meatballs:
Add the cooked meatballs to the saucepan with the sauce. Toss them gently to make sure they are well-coated. Let them cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes so they can soak up all that sweet and spicy goodness!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the meatballs to a serving bowl and garnish with extra chopped green onions and fresh cilantro or parsley leaves. Serve them warm as a scrumptious appetizer or alongside rice for a hearty meal!
Enjoy your Sweet and Spicy Meatballs with that glossy, sticky sauce and a perfect kick of heat balanced by sweetness! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner option, but you might want to add a bit more seasoning since it has less fat than beef. Consider adding an extra tablespoon of oil or even a little grated onion for moisture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage! Just make sure they’re completely cooled before freezing in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Can I Make These Meatballs Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, increase the chili flakes or Sriracha in the meatball mixture and sauce. You could also add diced jalapeños or use a hotter hot sauce to kick things up a notch!
What Can I Serve with These Meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile! You can serve them over rice, noodles, or in a sub sandwich. They also make a fantastic finger food at parties, served with toothpicks and extra sauce on the side for dipping!