Hot Pepper Jelly Meatballs

Sweet, spicy, and downright addictive, these Hot Pepper Jelly Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer. Tender meatballs are simmered in a glossy, sticky glaze made from hot pepper jelly and a few pantry staples—resulting in bold, irresistible flavor with just the right amount of heat. Whether you serve them at a party, over rice, or in sliders, these saucy bites are always a hit.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sweet & Spicy – The perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
Easy to Make – Just a few ingredients and one pot.
Crowd Favorite – Always disappears at parties and potlucks.
Versatile – Serve as an appetizer, main dish, or over noodles.
Make Ahead Friendly – Great for prepping in advance or freezing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef or ground chicken
• 1 egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp finely chopped onion
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup hot pepper jelly (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup chili sauce or ketchup
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (adds savory depth)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped parsley or green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Toothpicks for serving

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet or skillet
• Saucepan or large skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

1. In a bowl, combine ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.
3. Roll into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
Option 1 – Bake:
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Bake meatballs for 18–20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.

Option 2 – Pan Sear:
4. Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Cook meatballs in batches, turning to brown on all sides, about 8–10 minutes total.

Step 3: Make the Hot Pepper Jelly Sauce
6. In a large skillet or saucepan, combine hot pepper jelly, chili sauce, vinegar, soy sauce, and Dijon (if using).
7. Heat over medium heat, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine & Simmer
8. Add cooked meatballs to the sauce and stir gently to coat.
9. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling to the meatballs.

Step 5: Serve It Up
10. Transfer to a serving platter or slow cooker (on warm).
11. Garnish with parsley or sesame seeds. Serve warm with toothpicks or over rice.

Tips for the Best Hot Pepper Jelly Meatballs
Use Homemade or Store-Bought Jelly – Either works; adjust heat level to your taste.
Don’t Overmix the Meat – Keeps the meatballs tender.
Double the Sauce – For extra saucy servings over rice or pasta.
Make Ahead – Cook meatballs and store sauce separately until ready to serve.
Keep Warm – Use a slow cooker on low or warm for easy party serving.

Serving Suggestions
Appetizer – Serve with toothpicks at gatherings or game day.
Over Rice or Noodles – Makes an easy, saucy dinner.
Mini Sliders – Add to small buns with pickles or slaw.
Party Platter – Pair with cheese cubes, olives, and crackers.
Sweet Potato Mash – A cozy, hearty base for the meatballs.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Let cool and freeze in sauce for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of water if needed.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen meatballs?
   Yes! Heat them through in the sauce until fully warmed.
2. Is hot pepper jelly very spicy?
   It depends on the brand—some are mild, others hot. Adjust quantity to taste.
3. Can I make them gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure sauces are gluten-free.
4. What meat works best?
   Ground beef, chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat all work well.
5. Can I use a slow cooker?
   Yes! Add cooked meatballs and sauce to a slow cooker and keep on low or warm for serving.

Final Thoughts

Hot Pepper Jelly Meatballs are the perfect sweet-and-spicy bite for any occasion. Easy to prepare, crowd-friendly, and endlessly versatile, this recipe brings big flavor with minimal effort. Whether served at a holiday party, game night, or dinner table, these meatballs are guaranteed to impress.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your saucy meatball creations.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American Party Food

Nutritional Information (Per 4 Meatballs – based on 6 servings):
Calories: 310 | Protein: 17g | Carbohydrates: 20g | Fat: 18g | Sugar: 14g | Sodium: 460mg

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