Description
These irresistible bites feature tender, juicy meatballs coated in a perfectly balanced sweet and savory brown sugar glaze. They are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fantastic addition to any family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean)
- 1/2 lb ground pork (or additional 1/2lb ground beef)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free for GF)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely grated yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare Meatball Mixture. In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, ground pork, panko breadcrumbs, egg, grated onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined using your hands; do not overmix.
- Step 2: Form Meatballs. Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring slight space between each.
- Step 3: Prepare Sauce. In a medium saucepan, whisk together brown sugar, ketchup, yellow mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves and sauce slightly thickens (5-7 minutes).
- Step 4: Bake. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour half of the sauce over the meatballs on the baking sheet, gently tossing to coat. Bake for 15 minutes.
- Step 5: Glaze and Finish. Remove from oven, toss meatballs with the remaining sauce, and return to the oven. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temperature 160°F/71°C) and sauce is caramelized. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25-30 mins