If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with a comforting, tender bite, the Marmalade Meatballs Recipe is your new best friend. These meatballs are coated in a luscious sauce made with orange marmalade, barbecue sauce, and a touch of heat that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you want a show-stopping appetizer or a cozy main course, this recipe brings simple ingredients together in an irresistible way that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Marmalade Meatballs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the first step toward making these meatballs shine. Every item plays a key role, from the juicy, seasoned beef that forms the base, to the sweet, tangy sauce that brings it all to life. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 ½ pounds ground beef: The hearty foundation of your meatballs, providing rich flavor and tender texture.
½ cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs together and keeps them moist.
¼ cup milk: Adds moisture, making each meatball irresistibly tender.
1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder to keep everything intact.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, savory depth.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances flavor with subtle sweetness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional): Perfect for browning meatballs evenly if frying.
1 cup orange marmalade: The star ingredient of the sauce, contributing sweetness and a citrusy punch.
½ cup barbecue sauce: Adds smokiness and tang.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides savory umami depth.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle sharpness that livens up the sauce.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like just a hint of heat.

How to Make Marmalade Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by combining your ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. This blend is what makes these meatballs flavorful and tender. Make sure not to overwork the meat to keep them light and juicy. Once mixed, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, perfect for even cooking and easy serving.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

You have two options here depending on your preference and time. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs, turning occasionally until they have a beautiful golden crust—this usually takes 5 to 7 minutes. If you’d rather skip frying, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes. Either way, you’ll want the meatballs cooked through but still juicy inside.

Step 3: Whip Up the Sauce

While the meatballs are cooking, it’s time to prepare the sauce that makes this Marmalade Meatballs Recipe so special. Mix orange marmalade, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes in a saucepan. Heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture is smooth and bubbling. This sauce will coat your meatballs in an incredible glossy glaze packed with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.

Step 4: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

Once your meatballs are cooked, gently add them to the sauce. Toss or spoon the sauce over the meatballs to ensure every bite is generously coated. Let everything simmer together for 5 to 7 minutes so the flavors marry beautifully and the sauce thickens just a little, sealing in all the goodness.

How to Serve Marmalade Meatballs Recipe

Garnishes

To add a fresh, vibrant touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over your meatballs just before serving. The bright green not only looks stunning against the glossy sauce but also gives a pleasant herbal note that complements the sweet and savory flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

These meatballs are super versatile. Serve them over fluffy white rice or buttery egg noodles for a filling meal. They also pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving these at a party, place them in a slow cooker to keep warm and provide toothpicks for easy snacking. You can also spoon them onto little slider buns or over mashed potatoes for a comforting twist that is sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Marmalade Meatballs Recipe feast, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making a perfect quick lunch or dinner option.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months and can be reheated straight from the freezer.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water or extra sauce during reheating helps keep the meatballs juicy and the sauce glossy.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and gives the dish a lighter flavor. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as turkey meatballs can dry out faster than beef.

Is it necessary to fry the meatballs first?

While frying adds a lovely crust and flavor, you can bake the meatballs instead for a hands-off and slightly healthier alternative.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated. Gently reheat it before adding the cooked meatballs for serving.

How spicy are these meatballs with the red pepper flakes?

The heat is quite mild and optional. If you prefer no spice, simply leave out the red pepper flakes, and the dish will still be deliciously flavorful.

What if I don’t have orange marmalade?

You can try substituting with apricot preserves or another citrus marmalade, though the flavor will slightly differ. The key is that sweet and citrusy balance in the sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably joyful about a dish that feels both comforting and exciting, and this Marmalade Meatballs Recipe fits that bill perfectly. It’s easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and versatile enough for so many occasions. Next time you want a meal that will bring smiles all around the table, give this recipe a whirl—you won’t regret it!

Marmalade Meatballs Recipe

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3.8 from 68 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

These Marmalade Meatballs offer a delightful fusion of savory and sweet flavors, combining tender ground beef meatballs with a tangy orange marmalade and barbecue sauce glaze. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish served over rice or noodles, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with comforting tastes and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

1 ½ pounds ground beef
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying, optional)

Sauce

1 cup orange marmalade
½ cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

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Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Shape the mixture into 1-inch diameter meatballs and set aside.
Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs carefully and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even browning on all sides. Alternatively, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 20 minutes until fully cooked.
Make the Sauce: While the meatballs cook, combine the orange marmalade, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and bubbly.
Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce, tossing them gently to coat evenly. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for 5 to 7 minutes so they absorb the flavors and the sauce thickens slightly.
Serve: Serve the marmalade meatballs hot. They make a perfect appetizer with toothpicks or a delicious main dish when served over rice or noodles. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes

For a lower-fat option, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
Baking the meatballs is a great alternative to frying for an easier clean-up and less oil usage.
You can adjust the red pepper flakes to control the spiciness according to preference.
These meatballs pair well with steamed rice, noodles, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Make sure to cook the meatballs thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) for safety.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American