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Savory Bourbon Glazed Meatballs

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Juicy meatballs glazed in a sweet and smoky bourbon brown sugar glaze, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
  • ½ cup plain or panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • ¼ cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ¼ cup bourbon
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef (or beef/pork blend), breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls (about 20 meatballs). Keep hands slightly wet to prevent sticking.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of oil. Brown meatballs in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
  4. Reduce heat to low. In the same skillet, add brown sugar, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and butter. Stir and simmer for 3-4 minutes until thick and syrupy.
  5. Return meatballs to the skillet and toss gently in the glaze. Cook together for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
  6. Transfer glazed meatballs to a serving dish and serve warm.

Notes

Do not overmix the meatball mixture to avoid tough meatballs. Brown meatballs in batches to prevent steaming. Keep glaze heat low and stir frequently to avoid burning. If glaze thickens too much, add a splash of water or bourbon to loosen. Baking option: bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes and then toss with glaze.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon glazed meatballs, brown sugar glaze, easy meatballs, savory meatballs, party appetizers, quick dinner

Find it online: https://juliamadeit.com/savory-bourbon-glazed-meatballs-recipe-easy-brown-sugar-glaze-guide/