Description
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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Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
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1 lb ground beef or ground chicken
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1 egg
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½ cup breadcrumbs
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¼ cup milk
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp finely chopped onion
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
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1 cup hot pepper jelly (store-bought or homemade)
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½ cup chili sauce or ketchup
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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1 tbsp soy sauce (adds savory depth)
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1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)
Optional Garnishes:
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Chopped parsley or green onions
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Sesame seeds
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Toothpicks for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
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In a bowl, combine ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper.
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Mix gently until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.
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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.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American Party Food