Sweet And Smoky Meatballs Recipe

These irresistible sweet and smoky meatballs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Tender, juicy meatballs simmer in a rich, flavorful sauce – perfect served over rice, nestled in burger buns, or enjoyed as a delicious appetizer with extra sauce for dipping. My husband can't get enough of them!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 50 mins
Calories 1053.2 kcal
Protein 169g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Sweet And Smoky Meatballs 16

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Sweet And Smoky Meatballs

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How to Make Sweet And Smoky Meatballs

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, lightly beat 2 large eggs.
  3. Add 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix well.
  4. Gently incorporate 1 lb ground beef. Avoid overmixing.
  5. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
  6. Arrange meatballs in a single layer on two ungreased baking sheets.
  7. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until no longer pink, turning halfway through.
  8. While meatballs bake, prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional).
  9. Transfer the meatballs to an ungreased 1-quart baking dish.
  10. Pour the sauce evenly over the meatballs.
  11. Cover the baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the meatballs are cooked through.
  12. Uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened and the meatballs are nicely glazed. Stir gently to coat meatballs evenly.
  13. Serve immediately over rice, on rolls, or with extra sauce for dipping. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

68 g

Sugar

188g

Fat

82g

Carbs

26g