Easy 20-Minute Firecracker Meatballs Recipe

Published Dec 28, 2023 By Elle Ann

Image credit: Smokin' & Grillin with AB via YouTube

When it comes to meatballs, my all-time favorite flavor is firecracker, I love how savory, sweet, and spicy it tastes, and I can eat a lot of pieces in just one sitting! I always cook this for parties, special occasions, potlucks, or during game day with the family.

For the recipe, there is only one that I trust to follow, and that is Smokin’ & Grillin with AB on YouTube. The steps and procedures are very easy even for beginners, and you can prepare this appetizer in as fast as 20 minutes!

Ingredients for Firecracker Meatballs:

Meatballs

2 pounds of ground chicken or turkey
4 tsp of minced garlic
1½ tsp of salt
1 tsp of pepper
2 large eggs
1 cup of Panko breadcrumbs
½ tsp of paprika
1 tsp of onion powder

Firecracker Sauce

½ cup of hot sauce
1 cup of light brown sugar
2 tbsp of apple cider vinegar
¼ tsp of salt
¼-½ tsp of red pepper flakes, or to taste

How to Make Firecracker Meatballs:

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 475°F, place 2 racks in the center, then line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper, and set them aside. Place a saucepan on a stove over medium-high heat, then add the hot sauce, light brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and red pepper flakes, and give them a good stir.

Step 2

Bring the sauce to a boil, then turn down the heat, and let it simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes. Turn off the heat, then allow the sauce to cool down, and while waiting prepare the meatballs.

Easy to Make Firecracker Meatballs — Image credit: Smokin’ & Grillin with AB via YouTube

[social_warfare]

Step 3

Add the ground chicken, minced garlic, salt, pepper, eggs, breadcrumbs, paprika, and onion powder in a large bowl, then mix everything until incorporated and combined. Scoop out 3 tablespoons of the mixture, then shape it into a ball, and place it in the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4

Proceed to shape the remaining meat mixture into meatballs and make sure to space them apart evenly on the baking sheet. Place them in the preheated oven, then allow them to bake for about 11 to 13 minutes or until thoroughly cooked, and dip them into the prepared sauce. Serve and enjoy!