Description
These Marmalade Meatballs offer a delicious twist on a classic appetizer, combining juicy ground beef meatballs with a sweet and tangy orange marmalade sauce blended with barbecue and soy flavors. Perfect as a party snack or served over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying, optional)
Sauce
- 1 cup orange marmalade
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, ensuring they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides and cooked through. Alternatively, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20 minutes until fully cooked and lightly browned.
- Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine orange marmalade, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes if using. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Transfer the cooked meatballs into the saucepan with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the meatballs evenly, then simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors and ensure the meatballs are heated through.
- Serve: Serve the marmalade meatballs hot. They work great as appetizers with toothpicks or as a main dish served over rice or noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added burst of color and flavor if desired.
Notes
- You can bake the meatballs instead of frying for a healthier option.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder taste.
- Serve with toothpicks for easy appetizer presentation.
- Leftovers keep well and can be reheated gently on the stove or microwave.