a bowl of meatballs with sauce and parsley

Sweet and Spicy Meatballs Recipe

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:

  • 1 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha or another hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper (optional, for added color and texture)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs:
    • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, and chopped parsley.
    • Mix until just combined to keep the meatballs tender.
    • Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
    • Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the meatballs are golden brown and fully cooked.
  2. Prepare the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:
    • While the meatballs are baking, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sriracha, garlic powder, ground ginger, and diced red bell pepper (if using) in a medium saucepan.
    • Heat the sauce over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to thicken slightly and blend the flavors.
  3. Combine and Serve:
    • Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them into the saucepan with the sweet and spicy sauce.
    • Toss the meatballs gently to ensure they are fully coated in the sauce.
    • Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a vibrant finish.
  4. Serving Suggestions:
    • Serve these delicious meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy snacking or as a main dish over steamed rice or noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Sweet and Spicy Meatballs are packed with bold flavors that balance sweetness, tanginess, and a touch of heat. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or meal prep, this versatile recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Enjoy your Sweet and Spicy Meatballs!

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