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.
This recipe has become a favorite at all our gatherings, always disappearing fast and earning compliments for its irresistible flavor combination.
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs: 500 g (1 lb) ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup milk, 1/4 cup finely chopped onion, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- For the Cherry Glaze: 1 cup cherry preserves or cherry jam, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix until just combined do not overwork.
- Step 3:
- With damp hands, shape the mixture into 24 small meatballs (about 1 heaping tablespoon each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 4:
- Bake for 18 20 minutes or until meatballs are browned and cooked through.
- Step 5:
- 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.
- Step 6:
- Transfer baked meatballs to a large bowl. Pour the hot cherry glaze over and toss gently to coat.
- Step 7:
- Serve warm, with cocktail picks if desired.
Save My family always looks forward to these meatballs during holiday parties, and they remind me of joyful times spent together around the table.
Notes
Substitute cherry preserves with grape jelly for a different twist Add a pinch of ground ginger to the glaze for extra flavor Pairs well with a light red wine such as Pinot Noir.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories 160 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 16 g Protein 9 g (per serving, 3 meatballs)
Save Serve these meatballs warm for the best flavor and enjoy as an appetizer or party snack.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for a lighter option while maintaining texture and flavor.
- → What gives the glaze its tangy sweetness?
The glaze combines cherry preserves, ketchup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard to balance sweet and tangy flavors.
- → How do I prevent meatballs from drying out?
Mix gently and avoid overworking the meat mixture; baking rather than frying helps keep them juicy.
- → Can I add heat to the glaze?
Yes, crushed red pepper flakes can be added to the glaze for a subtle spicy kick.
- → What side dishes work well with these meatballs?
Light salads, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread complement the sweet and savory profile nicely.