Sweet and Spicy Meatballs are a mouthwatering fusion of flavors, offering the perfect balance between heat and sweetness. With a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior, these meatballs are smothered in a delicious sauce that combines brown sugar, chili sauce, and a kick of heat. Whether served as a party appetizer or a main dish over rice, these meatballs will quickly become a household favorite. They’re easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to impress at any gathering. The combination of sweetness and spice will have you reaching for seconds and thirds!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust based on your spice preference)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
For the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:
- 1/4 cup chili sauce (can substitute with sriracha or hot sauce for more heat)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Mix the ingredients together using your hands or a spoon until everything is well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set them aside on a plate.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs to the skillet in batches, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat and begin preparing the sweet and spicy sauce.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the chili sauce, brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ground ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet and simmer on low heat for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, gently tossing them in the sauce to coat each meatball evenly.
- Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the meatballs to soak up the sauce.
- Once ready, remove the meatballs from the skillet and serve them hot.
Serve your sweet and spicy meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy serving or enjoy them as a main dish over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for a burst of freshness. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors will surely leave your guests raving about this dish. It’s a perfect recipe for any occasion, from family dinners to party spreads. Enjoy the delicious and fiery bite of these meatballs!
This dish is perfect for anyone who loves a mix of sweet and spicy with a crunchy exterior and tender, juicy inside. It’s simple to make, yet delivers bold flavors, making it an absolute winner for any meal.