Description
These Marmalade Meatballs combine savory baked beef meatballs with a sweet and tangy orange marmalade sauce, creating the perfect appetizer or main dish. The meatballs are tender and flavorful, baked to perfection, then tossed in a luscious sauce made from orange marmalade, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and optional sriracha for a spicy kick. This dish is ideal for parties, game-day snacks, or a comforting family meal served over rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Sauce
- 1 cup orange marmalade
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional for heat)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Meatballs: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and soy sauce. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape and Bake: Form the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes or until the meatballs are fully cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the meatballs bake, in a saucepan over medium heat, combine the orange marmalade, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and sriracha if you want some heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.
- Combine and Simmer: Once the meatballs are baked, transfer them to the saucepan with the sauce. Toss gently to coat all the meatballs evenly. Simmer on low heat for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
- Serve: Serve the marmalade meatballs warm as a flavorful party appetizer or over rice for a satisfying main dish. Enjoy!
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
- These meatballs freeze well, making them great for meal prep or party appetizers.
- For extra citrus flavor, add a splash of orange juice to the sauce while simmering.
