Ultimate Meatball Little Smokies Recipe for Your Next Party
Guide or Summary：IngredientsInstructionsServing SuggestionsWhy This Recipe WorksTips and VariationsIf you're looking for a crowd-pleaser that will have your……
Guide or Summary：
If you're looking for a crowd-pleaser that will have your guests coming back for seconds (and thirds), then this ultimate meatball little smokies recipe is just what you need. Combining the savory goodness of meatballs with the smoky flavor of little smokies, this dish is perfect for parties, game days, or any casual get-together. Let's dive into the details and see why this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
To make this ultimate meatball little smokies recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package of little smokies (approximately 14 ounces)
- 1 cup of barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup of grape jelly
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Meatballs**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs.
2. **Cook the Meatballs**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
3. **Combine the Sauces**: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a large saucepan, combine the barbecue sauce and grape jelly. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the jelly has melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. **Add Little Smokies and Meatballs**: Once the meatballs are done, add them to the saucepan with the sauce. Also, add the little smokies to the mix. Stir gently to coat all the meatballs and little smokies with the sauce.
5. **Simmer**: Reduce the heat to low and let the meatballs and little smokies simmer in the sauce for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that everything is heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This ultimate meatball little smokies recipe is incredibly versatile. You can serve it in a variety of ways to suit your event:
- **Appetizer**: Stick toothpicks in the meatballs and little smokies and serve them on a platter for easy, grab-and-go party snacks.
- **Main Dish**: Serve over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- **Slider**: Place a meatball and a little smoky in a slider bun with a bit of sauce for a fun and tasty sandwich.
Why This Recipe Works
- **Flavor Combination**: The savory meatballs and smoky little smokies are a match made in heaven. The barbecue sauce and grape jelly add a sweet and tangy element that balances the dish perfectly.
- **Easy to Make**: With just a few simple steps, you can have a dish that looks and tastes impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.
- **Crowd-Pleaser**: Whether you're hosting a party or a casual get-together, this dish is sure to be a hit. It's the kind of recipe that people will ask you for after they taste it.
Tips and Variations
- **Spicy Kick**: If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce mixture.
- **Different Sauces**: Feel free to experiment with different sauces. Teriyaki sauce or sweet and sour sauce can also work well with this recipe.
- **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them before serving.
In conclusion, this ultimate meatball little smokies recipe is a fantastic addition to your recipe collection. It's easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and sure to be a hit at any gathering. Give it a try at your next event, and watch it disappear before your eyes!