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
I first served these cherry-glazed meatballs at a family gathering and they were an instant hit Everyone kept asking for the recipe
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 500 g (1 lb)
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup
- Egg: 1 large
- Milk: 1/4 cup
- Onion: 1/4 cup finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Cherry preserves or cherry jam: 1 cup
- Ketchup: 1/4 cup
- Soy sauce: 2 tbsp
- Apple cider vinegar: 1 tbsp
- Dijon mustard: 1 tsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp optional for heat
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:
- 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
Save These meatballs quickly became a favorite at family dinners and holiday parties serving as both a hearty appetizer and a conversation starter
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
Save Enjoy these flavorful cherry-glazed meatballs as an appetizer or party snack They are sure to impress your guests
Kitchen Help
- → What ground meat works best for these meatballs?
Ground beef offers a rich flavor and moist texture, but ground turkey can be used for a lighter option without sacrificing juiciness.
- → How can I make the cherry glaze spicier?
Adding crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze provides a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the cherries nicely.
- → Can I substitute cherry preserves with other fruit spreads?
Yes, grape jelly or similar fruit preserves can be used for a different flavor twist while maintaining the glaze’s sweetness and texture.
- → What’s the best way to bake the meatballs evenly?
Arrange them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet and avoid overcrowding to ensure consistent cooking and browning.
- → How long can leftover glazed meatballs be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to preserve the glaze's flavor and texture.