Save Juicy mini meatballs made from budget-friendly ground beef, baked and tossed in a tangy, sweet cherry glaze. Perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties or potlucks.
These meatballs have been a hit at every gathering I've brought them to; their balance of sweet and savory keeps everyone coming back for more.
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Ingredients
- For the Meatballs: 500 g (1 lb) ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup milk, 1/4 cup finely chopped onion, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- For the Cherry Glaze: 1 cup cherry preserves or cherry jam, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
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Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix until just combined do not overwork.
- Step 3:
- With damp hands, shape the mixture into 24 small meatballs (about 1 heaping tablespoon each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 4:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes or until meatballs are browned and cooked through.
- Step 5:
- While meatballs bake prepare the glaze In a saucepan over medium heat combine cherry preserves ketchup soy sauce vinegar Dijon mustard and red pepper flakes. Stir and bring to a simmer Cook for 3–4 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Step 6:
- Transfer baked meatballs to a large bowl. Pour the hot cherry glaze over and toss gently to coat.
- Step 7:
- Serve warm with cocktail picks if desired.
Save Making these meatballs always brings the family together, sharing stories around the kitchen as we cook and enjoy.
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Notes
Pairs well with a light red wine such as Pinot Noir. Add a pinch of ground ginger to the glaze for extra flavor.
Allergen Information
Contains Eggs Wheat (breadcrumbs) Soy (soy sauce). If using store-bought cherry preserves or ketchup double-check for possible allergens such as nuts or gluten.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (3 meatballs): 160 Calories, 7 g Total Fat, 16 g Carbohydrates, 9 g Protein.
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Enjoy these flavorful meatballs fresh from the oven for the best taste and texture.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative and pairs nicely with the cherry glaze.
- → How do I make the cherry glaze thicker?
Simmer the glaze a bit longer until it reduces and thickens to your desired consistency.
- → Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?
You can shape the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate; bake just before serving for best texture.
- → What can I substitute for cherry preserves?
Grape jelly can be used as a tasty alternative for a different flavor twist.
- → Are there options to add heat to the glaze?
Adding crushed red pepper flakes during glazing adds a gentle spicy kick.
