Spicy meatballs are a delicious and flavorful dish that packs a punch. These meatballs are infused with a blend of spices and seasonings, making them perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their food. They can be served as an appetizer, added to pasta, or enjoyed in a sub sandwich. Follow this recipe to create spicy meatballs that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and Worcestershire sauce, then pour it into the meat mixture.
- Add the red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt.
- Mix everything together until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Shape the Meatballs:
- Using your hands, shape the meat mixture into small balls, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a plate or baking sheet.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook them in batches.
- Cook the meatballs for about 6-8 minutes, turning them occasionally to brown all sides evenly. The meatballs should be cooked through and have an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the spicy meatballs hot with your favorite marinara sauce, over pasta, or in a sub sandwich.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips:
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. If you want more heat, you can add a dash of hot sauce or chopped fresh chili peppers to the meat mixture.
- Baking Option: For a healthier option, you can bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked, instead of frying them.
- Make Ahead: The meatballs can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking. You can also freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months.
Spicy meatballs are a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for adding a kick to your meal. Whether served with pasta, in a sandwich, or on their own as an appetizer, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this spicy and delicious recipe with your friends and family!
