Description
These Hot Pepper Jelly Meatballs are a spicy and sweet appetizer perfect for parties or a flavorful meal. The meatballs are simmered in a luscious sauce made from hot pepper jelly, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and apple cider vinegar, resulting in a tangy and slightly spicy glaze that beautifully coats each bite-sized meatball.
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 hot pepper jelly, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously until the jelly has completely melted and the sauce becomes smooth and well combined.
- Add the meatballs: Place the frozen meatballs into the saucepan and stir thoroughly to coat each meatball evenly with the sauce.
- Simmer the meatballs: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the meatballs simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the meatballs are heated through and well-glazed with the sauce.
- Serve: Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving dish. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for added color and flavor. Serve warm, either with toothpicks as an appetizer or over rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use homemade or your favorite store-bought frozen meatballs for convenience.
- Adjust the amount of hot pepper jelly if you desire more or less heat.
- This recipe can be prepared ahead of time and gently reheated before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add freshness and color.
- Serve with rice, crusty bread, or toothpicks for easy snacking.
