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 quickly became a favorite at my gatherings because it combines savory meatballs with a uniquely sweet and tangy cherry sauce.
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
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Mix Meatball 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 Meatballs:
- 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 My family looks forward to these meatballs at every party especially children who love the sweet glaze.
Allergen Information
Contains Eggs Wheat (breadcrumbs) Soy (soy sauce). Check store-bought cherry preserves or ketchup for possible allergens such as nuts or gluten.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (3 meatballs): 160 calories 7 g total fat 16 g carbohydrates 9 g protein.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs with a light red wine such as Pinot Noir or with simple sides like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Save These cherry-glazed meatballs combine bold flavors and ease of preparation for a delicious appetizer everyone will enjoy.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve tender meatballs?
Use a combination of breadcrumbs and milk to keep the meat moist, and avoid overmixing the meat mixture to prevent toughness.
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option, adjusting cooking times as needed to ensure doneness.
- → How is the cherry glaze prepared?
The glaze is made by simmering cherry preserves with ketchup, soy sauce, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and optional red pepper flakes until smooth and slightly thickened.
- → What cooking method is used for the meatballs?
The meatballs are shaped and baked in the oven until browned and cooked through, then coated with the warm cherry glaze.
- → Can the glaze be adjusted for spice?
Yes, adding or omitting crushed red pepper flakes allows control over the heat level in the glaze.