These Hot Pepper Jelly Meatballs are a fun and tasty dish! Made with ground meat and a delicious sweet and spicy sauce, they are perfect for parties or snacking.
When I make these, I can’t resist sneaking a few before serving. They’re so good with toothpicks—just try and stop at one! 🤤
I love how simple these meatballs are to whip up. Just mix, bake, and coat in that amazing jelly sauce. They’re always a hit at gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using ground beef gives meatballs a rich flavor. A mix of beef and pork can make them even juicier. If you prefer leaner options, try ground turkey or chicken instead, but keep in mind they might be a bit drier.
Breadcrumbs: I use plain breadcrumbs for texture, but feel free to substitute with panko for extra crispiness. Gluten-free breadcrumbs work well too, making this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Hot Pepper Jelly: This is the star of the show! If you can’t find hot pepper jelly, try using regular jelly mixed with hot sauce for a similar effect. You can play around with how spicy you want your meatballs.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. It adds depth of flavor without gluten. If you’re watching your sodium intake, there are low-sodium soy sauce options.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Stay Moist and Flavorful?
Keeping meatballs moist is key to a good texture. Here are my tips:
- Add moisture with milk or a bit of broth. This helps keep them tender.
- Don’t overmix the meat. Combine gently to avoid tough meatballs.
- Mold them into uniform sizes, about 1 to 1.5 inches, for even cooking.
- Bake until just cooked through (about 20-25 minutes) to keep them juicy.
Following these steps will help ensure your meatballs are delicious and bursting with flavor!
Hot Pepper Jelly Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar (about 12 oz) hot pepper jelly
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional for a touch of acidity)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Finely chopped red chili peppers or red bell peppers for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 35-40 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 15 minutes preparing and mixing the ingredients, and then 20-25 minutes baking the meatballs. Plus, a few minutes to make the sauce and coat the meatballs.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps ensure your meatballs cook evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, milk, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
With your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced out evenly.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Now, pop the meatballs into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. They should be cooked through and have a nice brown color on the outside.
5. Make the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the hot pepper jelly, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Stir until the jelly is melted and the mixture is smooth. For an extra touch of richness, you can stir in butter at this stage.
6. Coat the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are cooked, take them out of the oven and transfer them to the saucepan with the hot pepper jelly sauce. Gently stir or toss the meatballs to ensure they are evenly coated in the delicious sauce.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the coated meatballs to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, and optionally add some finely chopped red chili peppers or bell peppers for extra color and a hint of fresh heat.
8. Enjoy!
Serve these warm as an appetizer or party snack. They are perfect with toothpicks for easy eating. Enjoy your sweet and spicy Hot Pepper Jelly Meatballs that are sure to impress your guests!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for These Meatballs?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator before using it. If you’re short on time, you can also defrost it in the microwave using the defrost setting. This helps to ensure that your meatballs mix well and hold together during baking.
Can I Make These Meatballs in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time! Just shape the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them before cooking. Just be sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking.
What Should I Do with Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They also freeze well! To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Of course! If you prefer less heat, choose a mild hot pepper jelly or reduce the amount of jelly you use. You can also balance the spice with a touch more sweetness by adding a little more sugar or a sweeter jelly. Tasting the sauce before coating the meatballs will help you find the right balance!