Feast your taste buds on this mouthwatering meatball recipe with chili sauce that’s sure to spice up your dinner routine. Perfect for those who love a little heat with their meat, this dish combines juicy meatballs with a tangy, spicy chili sauce that’s irresistibly delicious.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of ground beef and pork ensures juicy, flavorful meatballs every time.
- Chili sauce adds a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, elevating the dish beyond your average meatball.
- Baking the meatballs before simmering in sauce ensures they’re cooked evenly and retain their shape.
- This recipe is versatile, allowing for easy substitutions to suit dietary preferences or spice tolerance.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, weeknight dinners, or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chili sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Tip: For extra flavor, let the mixture sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before forming into balls.
Step 2: Form and Bake the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the meat mixture into 1.5-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
Step 3: Make the Chili Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, combine the chili sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce is heated through. Tip: Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on how sweet or spicy you like your sauce.
Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs in Sauce
Add the baked meatballs to the skillet with the chili sauce, gently stirring to coat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Tip: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. They’re perfect over rice, pasta, or as a hearty appetizer.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to take their meatballs to the next level, consider these advanced tips. First, try using a mix of ground meats like veal or turkey for different flavors. Second, toast your breadcrumbs before adding them to the mixture for a deeper flavor. Third, if you’re short on time, frozen meatballs can be a quick substitute, though homemade will always taste better. Lastly, experimenting with different types of chili sauce can yield exciting new flavors, from smoky to extra spicy.
Recipe Variations
- For a healthier version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and pork.
- Add diced onions or bell peppers to the meatball mixture for extra texture and flavor.
- Swap the chili sauce for barbecue sauce or a mix of ketchup and sriracha for a different taste profile.
- Make it gluten-free by using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- For a vegetarian twist, use lentils or mushrooms as the base for your meatballs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve. They also freeze well for up to 3 months, making them a great option for meal prep.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
To amp up the heat, add more chili sauce, a dash of cayenne pepper, or some chopped jalapeños to the sauce. Adjust to your preferred level of spiciness.
What’s the best way to serve these meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile! Serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks, over a bed of rice or pasta for a main dish, or even in a sub roll for a delicious sandwich.
Summary
This meatball recipe with chili sauce is a flavorful, versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With juicy meatballs coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite.