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 been a favorite at every gathering I've hosted; everyone loves the combination of savory meatballs with the tangy cherry flavor.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 500 g (1 lb)
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup
- Egg: 1 large
- Milk: 1/4 cup
- Onion: 1/4 cup finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Cherry preserves or cherry jam: 1 cup
- Ketchup: 1/4 cup
- Soy sauce: 2 tbsp
- Apple cider vinegar: 1 tbsp
- Dijon mustard: 1 tsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp (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 These meatballs have become a staple at family get-togethers, always bringing smiles and satisfied appetites.
Notes
Pairs well with a light red wine such as Pinot Noir. Add a pinch of ground ginger to the glaze for extra flavor.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper or foil, saucepan, mixing spoon, measuring cups and spoons.
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, wheat (breadcrumbs), soy (soy sauce). Double-check store-bought cherry preserves or ketchup for possible allergens such as nuts or gluten.
Save These cherry-glazed meatballs are a delightful appetizer that will impress your guests every time.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, substituting ground turkey creates a lighter version while keeping the glaze flavors intact. Adjust baking time if needed.
- → How is the cherry glaze prepared?
The glaze combines cherry preserves, ketchup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, mustard, and optional red pepper flakes, simmered until slightly thickened.
- → What is the best way to form meatballs evenly?
Use damp hands and about a heaping tablespoon of mixture per meatball for consistent size and even baking.
- → Can I prepare these in advance?
Meatballs can be made ahead, stored in the fridge, and glazed just before serving to retain freshness and flavor.
- → What drinks pair well with these glazed meatballs?
Light red wines like Pinot Noir complement the tangy cherry glaze beautifully. Non-alcoholic options include sparkling water with citrus.