Are you looking for a party-perfect snack that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters? Look no further than these 20 delicious meatball appetizer recipes! Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a more formal gathering, these bite-sized treats are sure to hit the spot.
From classic flavors like teriyaki and BBQ to more adventurous options like spicy Sriracha honey and Thai peanut, there’s something for everyone on this list. And with a variety of textures and presentation styles, you’re sure to find inspiration for your next party or gathering. So why settle for boring old veggie platters when you can wow your guests with these mouthwatering meatball appetizers?
Read on to discover the full list of recipes and get ready to take your party game to the next level!
Teriyaki Glazed Meatball Skewers
Elevate your appetizers with these sweet and savory teriyaki glazed meatball skewers, perfect for any gathering or party. This recipe combines the classic flavors of Asian-inspired teriyaki sauce with homemade meatballs and colorful bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup bell pepper strips (any color)
– Teriyaki glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, brown sugar, and olive oil. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 8-10 portions and shape each into a meatball.
4. Thread bell pepper strips and meatballs onto skewers.
5. Brush teriyaki glaze on the meatballs and bell peppers.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until meatballs are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Honey Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this sweet and spicy twist, perfect for a flavorful appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, honey, Sriracha sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Creamy Swedish Meatball Bites
Savor the flavors of Sweden with these bite-sized meatballs smothered in a rich and creamy sauce, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, flour, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in heavy cream and cook until slightly thickened.
6. Serve meatballs with the creamy sauce spooned over top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Bourbon Meatball Sliders
A twist on classic sliders, these BBQ bourbon meatballs bring a sweet and tangy flavor profile to the party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons BBQ bourbon sauce (see note)
– 12 slider buns
– Optional: chopped scallions and pickles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into 12-15 meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with BBQ bourbon sauce.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Assemble sliders by placing 2-3 meatballs per bun.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Note: To make BBQ bourbon sauce, combine 1 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Whisk until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Garlic Parmesan Meatball Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these savory, cheesy, and meaty mushrooms. This recipe combines the flavors of garlic parmesan meatballs with sautéed mushroom caps for a show-stopping start to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with about 1 tablespoon of the meatball mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Blue Cheese Meatball Cups
Elevate your appetizer game with these savory meatball cups infused with the bold flavors of buffalo sauce and creamy blue cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 2 tbsp crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Mini muffin tin (12 cups)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, buffalo wing sauce, blue cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the meat mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each into a ball.
4. Place a meatball in each mini muffin cup.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with additional blue cheese crumbles and buffalo wing sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pineapple Meatballs
This unique recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the tanginess of a sweet and sour sauce, creating a deliciously balanced flavor profile that will elevate your meatballs to a whole new level.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh pineapple chunks, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each one.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Add the baked meatballs to the saucepan and toss to coat with the sweet and sour sauce.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh pineapple chunks.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Greek Lamb Meatball Pita Bites
Experience the flavors of Greece with these savory pita bites filled with tender lamb meatballs, creamy tzatziki sauce, and fresh cucumber. Perfect for a quick snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh cucumber slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Shape into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Split pita breads in half lengthwise. Top each half with a few lamb meatballs, a dollop of tzatziki sauce, and a slice of cucumber.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cheesy Jalapeño Popper Meatballs
Elevate your party appetizers with these spicy and savory meatballs, packed with the flavors of jalapeños and melted cheddar. Perfect for game days or casual gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, and egg. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Thai Peanut Meatball Lettuce Wraps
These Thai-inspired meatballs bring a bold and aromatic flavor to the humble lettuce wrap. With the creamy richness of peanut sauce, crunchy veggies, and savory beef, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
– Sliced bell peppers, carrots, and cucumber for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef with breadcrumbs, cilantro, garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, whisk together peanut butter, honey, and soy sauce for the dipping sauce.
5. Assemble wraps by placing a few meatballs onto a lettuce leaf, then top with your favorite veggies and drizzle with peanut sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Meatball Sub Crostini
Mini Meatball Sub Crostini Recipe
Elevate your party with these bite-sized, flavorful mini meatball subs on toasted crostini.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12-15 mini sub rolls (or small baguette slices)
• 1 jar marinara sauce
• Shredded mozzarella cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll them to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, toast the mini sub rolls by placing them on a baking sheet and heating in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
7. Assemble the crostini by spreading a small amount of marinara sauce on each toasted roll, then topping with a meatball, some shredded mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry Glazed Turkey Meatballs
Elevate your holiday gatherings with these sweet and savory turkey meatballs, smothered in a tangy cranberry glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, combine cranberries, honey, and mustard in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until glaze has thickened slightly.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with cranberry glaze. Return to oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs: A flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, this recipe combines the richness of mozzarella cheese with the brightness of pesto for a taste sensation like no other!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the meat mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Cut a small indentation in the center of each meatball and fill with about 1 tablespoon of pesto and 1-2 tablespoons of mozzarella cheese.
5. Place the stuffed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each meatball.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Korean Gochujang Meatball Skewers
Add a burst of flavor to your party with these bite-sized meatballs infused with the deep, savory taste of gochujang. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, gochujang, soy sauce, garlic powder, and breadcrumbs. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into small portions and shape each portion into a ball. Thread each meatball onto a bamboo skewer, leaving a little space between each one.
4. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little oil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 10-12
Bacon-Wrapped Meatball Bombs
Elevate your appetizers with these savory meatball bombs wrapped in crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bacon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Wrap each meatball with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the bacon-wrapped meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Mediterranean Meatball Tapas
Elevate your tapas game with these flavorful Mediterranean meatballs, perfect for a warm and inviting gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pita chips or toasted bread for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and gently roll them around to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with pita chips or toasted bread, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Maple Dijon Meatball Kabobs
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these sweet and savory Maple Dijon Meatball Kabobs. Perfect for a summer BBQ or potluck, these bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of meatballs with the sweetness of maple syrup and the tanginess of Dijon mustard.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 10-12 wooden skewers
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Thread 4-5 meatballs onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each meatball.
5. Brush the top of each meatball with maple syrup and sprinkle with Dijon mustard.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes per batch
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Meatballs
A creative twist on classic meatballs, these spinach and feta stuffed gems pack a flavorful punch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 12-15 portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Flatten each meatball slightly to create a pocket in the center. Stuff each with about 1 tablespoon of crumbled feta cheese.
5. Place the stuffed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each for even cooking.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chipotle Lime Meatball Tacos
This recipe combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers, fresh lime juice, and tender meatballs to create a mouthwatering taco filling. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, cilantro, chipotle peppers, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing meatballs onto tortillas, drizzling with lime juice, and topping with radishes, lime wedges, and sour cream (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Meatball Bruschetta
Rosemary Garlic Meatball Bruschetta: A flavorful twist on classic bruschetta, this recipe combines the earthy flavors of rosemary and garlic with tender meatballs and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh rosemary leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, garlic, rosemary, egg, and breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Form into meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
6. Top toasted bread with meatballs, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
7. Garnish with fresh rosemary leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your party guests with these delicious meatball appetizer recipes! From classic flavors like Teriyaki Glazed Meatballs and Garlic Parmesan Meatballs, to bold twists like Spicy Sriracha Honey Meatballs and Chipotle Lime Meatball Tacos, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet and sour Pineapple Meatballs or savory Mediterranean Meatball Tapas, these 20 recipes will have your guests coming back for more. With a range of flavors and textures to choose from, you’ll be sure to find the perfect meatball appetizer to serve at your next gathering.