These bourbon meatballs are a fun and tasty treat! They are juicy, sweet, and have a hint of smoky flavor from the bourbon sauce that coats them just right.
Making these meatballs is simple, especially when you want a crowd-pleaser. I love serving them at parties—everyone goes for seconds, and they’re just so delicious to snack on!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I usually go for a mix of ground beef and pork for a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too, though the flavor will be lighter.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are perfect, but if you need gluten-free options, try using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. They’ll still hold everything together nicely!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a rush, pre-grated stuff works too. For dairy-free diets, try using nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor.
Bourbon: Bourbon adds a unique flavor. If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with apple juice or broth for a different, yet tasty glaze.
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite barbecue sauce is perfect here. For a spicier kick, consider a chipotle barbecue sauce or even sriracha mixed into a mild sauce!
How Do You Shape Meatballs Without Making a Mess?
Shaping meatballs can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll get it down just right! First off, make sure to keep your hands wet with a little water or oil. This helps prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.
- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to grab equal portions (about 1 inch). Roll gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make them tough.
- Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving a bit of space between each ball for even cooking.
Remember, the key is comforting, not perfect balls. A little variation in size is totally normal, and it adds a homemade touch!
How to Make Bourbon Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef or a mixture of ground beef and pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Bourbon Sauce:
- 1 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients and mix the meatballs, then bake them for 20-25 minutes. While they’re baking, you can whip up the bourbon sauce, which will take another 10 minutes. Overall, you’ll spend about 45 minutes from start to finish before serving these delicious meatballs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you bake your meatballs!
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or beef and pork mix), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Get your hands in there and mix everything together until it’s well combined. It should feel like a sticky mixture!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Take a spoonful of the mixture and roll it into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they’re evenly spaced so they cook nicely!
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Put the baking sheet with meatballs into your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through. You can check them with a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
5. Prepare the Bourbon Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, grab a saucepan. Combine the bourbon, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in the pan. Heat over medium heat, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
6. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Once the meatballs are finished baking, place them into a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm bourbon sauce over the meatballs and gently toss to coat them evenly with the sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your bourbon meatballs warm, and if you like, garnish with a little extra chopped parsley on top. They’re perfect as an appetizer or a main dish. Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors!
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a different flavor or a lighter option. Just keep in mind that leaner meats like turkey might require a bit more seasoning or a small amount of oil to maintain moisture in the meatballs.
How to Adjust the Bourbon Flavor?
If you prefer a less pronounced bourbon flavor, feel free to decrease the bourbon amount in the sauce to 3/4 cup or even 1/2 cup. You can balance the flavors by adding a bit more barbecue sauce or a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare and shape the meatballs ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can bake them, let them cool, and store the cooked meatballs in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months!
How to Store Leftover Bourbon Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock to keep them moist. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, checking and stirring occasionally for even heating.
