Pin it 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.
This recipe always impresses guests at parties with its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 500 g (1 lb) ground beef: For the meatballs
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: For texture
- 1 large egg: Binder
- 1/4 cup milk: Moisture
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Flavor
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Flavor
- 1/2 tsp salt: Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano: Herb
- 1 cup cherry preserves or cherry jam: For cherry glaze
- 1/4 cup ketchup: For cherry glaze
- 2 tbsp soy sauce: For cherry glaze
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: For cherry glaze
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: For cherry glaze
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat): For cherry glaze
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Mix ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix until just combined do not overwork.
- Shape meatballs:
- With damp hands, shape the mixture into 24 small meatballs (about 1 heaping tablespoon each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake meatballs:
- Bake for 18 20 minutes or until meatballs are browned and cooked through.
- Prepare glaze:
- 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.
- Toss meatballs:
- Transfer baked meatballs to a large bowl Pour the hot cherry glaze over and toss gently to coat.
- Serve:
- Serve warm with cocktail picks if desired.
Pin it These meatballs bring my family together every holiday season around the appetizer table.
Notes
Substitute cherry preserves with grape jelly for a different twist For a lighter version use ground turkey instead of beef Add a pinch of ground ginger to the glaze for extra flavor Pairs well with a light red wine such as Pinot Noir
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Baking sheet Parchment paper or foil Saucepan Mixing spoon Measuring cups and spoons
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
Pin it Enjoy these flavorful cherry-glazed meatballs fresh out of the oven for the best taste and texture.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of meat works best for these meatballs?
Ground beef is ideal for tender and juicy meatballs, but ground turkey can be used for a lighter alternative.
- → How is the cherry glaze prepared?
The glaze is made by simmering cherry preserves with ketchup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and optional red pepper flakes until smooth and slightly thickened.
- → Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs in advance and toss them in the glaze just before serving to maintain freshness and flavor.
- → Are these meatballs suitable for parties?
Absolutely, their bite-sized shape and flavorful glaze make them an excellent crowd-pleasing appetizer option for gatherings.
- → What tools do I need to prepare this dish?
A large mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper or foil, saucepan, mixing spoon, and measuring tools are needed for preparation.
- → Can I adjust the heat in the glaze?
Yes, adding or omitting the crushed red pepper flakes customizes the glaze’s spiciness to your preference.