Bourbon Meatball Recipe

Bourbon meatballs are a delicious and savory appetizer or main dish that combines the rich flavors of bourbon with tender meatballs. Here’s a simple recipe to make Bourbon Meatballs:

Ingredients:

For the meatballs:

  • 1 pound ground beef or a mixture of ground beef and pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spiciness)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the bourbon sauce:

  • 1/2 cup bourbon
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, chopped onion, chopped parsley, egg, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined.
  • Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, rolling them between your palms. Place them on a baking sheet or tray.

2. Cook the Meatballs:

  • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
  • In batches, add the meatballs to the hot oil and cook until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the meatballs and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

3. Prepare the Bourbon Sauce:

  • In a separate saucepan, combine the bourbon, ketchup, brown sugar, water, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
  • Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until it has thickened and reduced slightly.
  • Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. If you want a spicier sauce, you can add more red pepper flakes at this stage.

4. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:

  • Place the cooked meatballs in a serving dish and pour the bourbon sauce over them.
  • Gently toss the meatballs in the sauce, ensuring they are well coated.

5. Serve:

  • Garnish with additional chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Bourbon meatballs are best served hot, making them a delightful appetizer at parties or a flavorful main course when served over rice or with a side of mashed potatoes and vegetables. Enjoy!

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