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Sweet and Spicy Holiday Meatballs

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Sweet and Spicy Holiday Meatballs are juicy, bite-sized appetizers coated in a festive glaze made from fruit preserves and chili sauce. They’re perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or cozy dinners, offering a bold and balanced sweet-heat flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 2 tbsp chopped parsley or 2 tbsp grated Parmesan

For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup grape jelly or cranberry sauce
  • 3/4 cup chili sauce or sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Garnish:

  • Chopped green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  3. Roll into 1-inch meatballs and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned.
  5. Meanwhile, in a large skillet or saucepan, combine jelly, chili sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes over medium heat. Stir until smooth and bubbling.
  6. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until coated and heated through.
  7. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or parsley if desired.
  8. Serve warm with toothpicks or over rice or mashed potatoes.

Notes

  • Use store-bought frozen meatballs for a shortcut—just heat them in the sauce until warmed through.
  • Adjust the spice level to suit your preference by increasing or reducing chili sauce or red pepper flakes.
  • This recipe doubles easily for parties—just use a large pot or slow cooker.
  • Make meatballs ahead and store separately from the sauce; combine when ready to serve.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/sweet-and-spicy-holiday-meatballs/