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Meatballs are a beloved dish across various culinary traditions, celebrated for their versatility and comforting appeal. From Italian spaghetti and meatballs to Swedish meatballs served with lingonberry sauce, these bite-sized delights can be found in kitchens worldwide, each culture adding its unique spin. In recent years, however, a new contender has emerged in the meatball arena: Easy Firecracker Meatballs. This recipe introduces a tantalizing twist on the classic, infusing it with Asian-inspired flavors and a delightful kick that is perfect for any occasion.

Easy Firecracker Meatballs Recipe (Hello Fresh Copycat)

These Easy Firecracker Meatballs are a fun and flavorful addition to any meal! Made with ground beef or turkey, panko breadcrumbs, and a delicious blend of spices, they’re baked to perfection and glazed with a mouthwatering firecracker sauce. Perfect for appetizers or a tasty main dish over rice, this recipe comes together quickly and is sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready for a burst of flavor with every bite!

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef (or turkey)

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon ginger, minced

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

1/4 cup sweet chili sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; do not overwork the mixture.

      Form the Meatballs: With your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.

        Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until browned and cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F/70°C).

          Prepare the Firecracker Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce in a medium bowl until well combined. Adjust the sweetness or heat according to taste.

            Glaze the Meatballs: Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and brush or drizzle the firecracker sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they’re generously coated.

              Serve: Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving platter, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve warm. These meatballs are perfect as an appetizer or over a bed of rice for a delicious main dish.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4