How to Make Mini Meatballs with Sweet and Sour Sauce for Appetizers
Are you searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at your next party? Look no further! Mini meatballs with a sweet and sour sauce are a delightful treat that is not only delicious but also easy to make. Perfect for any gathering, these bite-sized wonders will have your guests coming back for seconds, and maybe even thirds! Let’s dive into how you can make these tasty morsels yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the meatballs:
– 1 pound ground beef or ground chicken (your choice!)
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the sweet and sour sauce:
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Step 1: Preparing the Meatballs
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Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine your ground meat with the egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix them together until everything is evenly distributed.
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Shape the Meatballs: Start rolling the mixture into small, bite-sized balls. You’ll want them to be about an inch in diameter so they can be easily picked up by a toothpick. Place these mini meatballs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once it’s up to temperature, pop the baking sheet in and bake the meatballs for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re nicely browned and cooked through. Remember to flip them halfway through so they get evenly cooked on all sides.
Step 2: Making the Sweet and Sour Sauce
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Combine Ingredients: While your meatballs are baking, take a small saucepan and mix together the ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
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Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat and let the mixture come to a simmer. Stir occasionally to make sure the sugar is completely dissolved and the ingredients are well combined. Let it simmer for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Bringing It All Together
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Coat the Meatballs: Once both the meatballs and the sauce are ready, it’s time to bring them together. You can do this in two ways. Either pour the sauce over the meatballs and gently toss them until they’re all evenly coated, or serve the sauce on the side as a dip.
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Serving: If you’re going for an appetizer vibe, stick toothpicks in each meatball for easy grabbing. Place them nicely on a serving platter, maybe sprinkle a little parsley over the top for a dash of color, and there you have it! Your mini meatballs with sweet and sour sauce are ready to be devoured.
Tips for the Perfect Mini Meatballs
- Season Well: Don’t forget to season your meatball mix well. It’s what brings the flavor to the party.
- Size Matters: Keep the meatballs small for that perfect one-bite experience. If they’re too big, they won’t cook evenly and will be harder to eat as an appetizer.
- Experiment: Feel free to experiment with the meat and spices. This recipe is quite versatile. Turkey or pork can also make great meatballs, and adding spices like paprika or cumin can give them an interesting twist.
Conclusion
Mini meatballs with sweet and sour sauce are a fantastic choice for any event, combining the savory delight of meatballs with the tangy thrill of the sauce. Not only are these appetizers easy to make, but they also offer a flavorful experience that’s sure to impress your guests. By following this simple recipe, you’re just a few steps away from appetizer perfection. So, don your chef’s hat, and let’s start rolling those meatballs!
