These sweet and spicy meatballs are a delicious blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance! Juicy ground meat mixed with a zesty sauce makes every bite irresistible.
They’re perfect for parties or a cozy night in! I love serving them with toothpicks, so everyone can grab one (or two). Who can resist their sweet, tangy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I often use a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs make a great binder, but you can use oats or crushed crackers if you don’t have them on hand. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also an excellent substitute for those with dietary needs.
Hoisin Sauce: This sauce gives the meatballs their sweet and spicy kick. If you can’t find hoisin, try using a mix of soy sauce, peanut butter, and a little honey to create a similar flavor.
Sriracha: It adds heat to the sauce! If you prefer less spice, use ketchup or a mild chili sauce instead. Adjust the quantity if you’re sensitive to heat.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Moist and Tender?
Keeping meatballs tender requires the right balance in mixing and cooking. The key is to mix the ingredients just until combined, as over-mixing can make them tough. Here are some steps to ensure great meatballs:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes, allowing them to absorb moisture.
- Gently mix in the ground meat and other ingredients. Avoid squishing the mixture too much.
- Cook the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring they brown nicely on all sides.
These simple tips will help your meatballs turn out juicy and flavorful every time! Enjoy cooking!
Sweet And Spicy Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated onion
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1–2 teaspoons sriracha or chili paste (adjust to preferred spice level)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Garnish:
- Sliced green onions (scallions)
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare, plus cooking time. Expect about 10-15 minutes for cooking the meatballs, and another 10 minutes to make the sauce and finish the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk, letting them soak for a few minutes until the milk is absorbed. This will keep the meatballs nice and moist!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Add the ground meat, egg, minced garlic, grated onion, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Gently mix with your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Form the Meatballs:
Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a plate or baking sheet for easy handling.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches if necessary. Cook them until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes total. Once done, transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate and set aside.
5. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, combine the hoisin sauce, honey (or brown sugar), soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, grated ginger, and garlic powder. Stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
7. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Add the meatballs back into the skillet and toss them gently in the sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors, and ensure the meatballs are heated through.
8. Serve the Meatballs:
Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
9. Enjoy!
Serve hot as an appetizer with toothpicks or alongside steamed rice or noodles for a delicious meal. Enjoy the delightful mix of sweet, spicy, and savory!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier, so adding a little extra moisture, like additional milk or using a combination with ground pork, can help keep the meatballs juicy.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less heat, start with just 1 teaspoon of sriracha or omit it altogether. You can also add more honey or brown sugar to balance out the sweetness. For more spice, feel free to add additional sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce after tasting it!
Can I Make the Meatballs in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs a day ahead of time; just shape and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. You can also freeze uncooked meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave, but for best results, gently warm them on the stovetop with a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist.