These Awesome Sauce Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and covered in a sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests!
When I make these, I can’t help but sneak a couple before they hit the table. They’re just that good! Pair them with pasta or enjoy them on their own. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For more flavor, I love mixing half beef with half pork for juiciness.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs. If you don’t have any, crushed crackers or even oats can be used as a substitute. Just make sure they’re finely crushed!
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can give a similar kick for a dairy-free option.
Awesome Sauce Ingredients: Ketchup is the base, but you can swap it for barbecue sauce for a different flavor. If you’re avoiding sugar, use a sugar-free ketchup instead. Apple cider vinegar can be substituted with lemon juice for brightness.
How Do I Make Tender Meatballs?
To achieve tender meatballs, mixing is key! Combine the ingredients gently by hand or with a spoon. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. It’s about keeping that delightful texture!
- Use room temperature ingredients, especially the egg and milk.
- Form the meatballs gently without packing them too tightly.
- Baking them instead of frying is a great way to avoid drying them out. Just be sure to check internal temp—should reach 165°F (74°C).
Awesome Sauce Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork (optional, for juiciness)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
For the awesome sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder or hot sauce (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Garnish:
- Crumbled feta cheese or grated Parmesan (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 25-30 minutes to cook. You’ll mix the meatballs, bake them, and simmer the sauce, but the result is well worth your time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix the ground beef and pork (if using). Add the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and onion powder. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently—just until it’s all combined. Remember, overmixing can make the meatballs tough!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Form the meat mixture into small balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. About halfway through, turn the meatballs gently to ensure they brown evenly. They should be browned and cooked through when done.
5. Prepare the Awesome Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, make your sauce! In a medium saucepan, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder (or hot sauce), and minced garlic. Heat over medium heat, whisking together until everything is smooth.
6. Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
7. Combine Meatballs with Sauce:
Once the meatballs are baked, carefully transfer them to the sauce in the saucepan. Toss them gently in the sauce until they’re well coated.
8. Serve:
Serve these delicious meatballs hot! Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and crumbled feta or extra Parmesan if you’d like. They’re fantastic on their own, over pasta, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Awesome Sauce Meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you want a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier, so adding a touch more milk or a bit of olive oil can help keep the meatballs juicy.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, just adding a bit of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Prepare the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs up to a day in advance. Just shape them, place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake as directed. This makes dinner prep a breeze!
What Can I Use Instead of Ketchup for the Sauce?
If you’re not a fan of ketchup, barbecue sauce is a tasty alternative. For a homemade version, mix tomato sauce with a bit of sugar and vinegar to mimic the flavor of ketchup. Adjust the sweetness to your liking!
