Description
These Hot Pepper Jelly Meatballs combine spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors in a deliciously glazed appetizer that’s perfect for parties or a flavorful meal. The meatballs simmer gently in a vibrant sauce made from hot pepper jelly, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and apple cider vinegar, delivering a perfect balance of heat and sweetness with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 ½ pounds frozen meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
Sauce
- 1 cup hot pepper jelly
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large saucepan or skillet, combine the hot pepper jelly, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and apple cider vinegar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring consistently until the jelly has melted completely and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the Meatballs: Add the frozen meatballs directly to the saucepan and stir well to coat each meatball evenly with the sauce blend.
- Cook: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even glazing and to prevent sticking. Cook until the meatballs are heated through and have absorbed the flavors of the sauce.
- Serve: Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm. They make a great appetizer with toothpicks or can be served over rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can use homemade meatballs or store-bought frozen ones for convenience.
- Adjust the level of sweetness or heat by using more or less hot pepper jelly according to your taste.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer a few minutes longer to reduce liquid.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or crusty bread.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently on the stovetop.
