These Orange Marmalade Meatballs are a fun and tasty twist on a classic dish. Made with juicy meatballs coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, they make a perfect party snack!
Honestly, who knew meatballs could be so exciting? I like to serve them with toothpicks. They disappear faster than I can say “extra sauce, please!” 🍊
They’re super easy to make! Just mix, bake, and toss in the orange sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or fun gatherings, so get ready to make your guests smile!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: You can use either ground beef or turkey based on your preference. For a leaner option, turkey is great. If you want a vegetarian alternative, consider using lentils or chickpeas, mashed and mixed with binders.
Breadcrumbs: I usually opt for plain breadcrumbs, but panko can add extra crunch if preferred. If gluten-free is your goal, almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers works well too.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a yummy flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Orange Marmalade: This is the star of the sauce! You could replace it with apricot jam or even a homemade citrus sauce with fresh orange juice and sugar if you want to get creative.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce gives a salty umami taste, but you can use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version. For a less salty option, low-sodium soy sauce works perfectly.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Are Perfectly Round and Cooked Evenly?
Shaping meatballs to be uniform in size helps them cook evenly. Here’s how to make that easier:
- Use a cookie scoop for even portions. This ensures they’re all the same size.
- Wet your hands slightly so the mixture won’t stick as much when rolling.
- Don’t overmix the meat. It can make the meatballs tough, so mix just until combined.
Baking rather than frying means less fuss and cleanup. Just pop them in the oven and let them cook until beautifully browned!
How to Make Orange Marmalade Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish:
- Green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 25 minutes for baking, making a total of around 40 minutes. It’s quick and perfect for when you’re craving a tasty snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the meatballs from sticking—this makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Make the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Use your hands or a spoon to combine everything until it’s well blended. Don’t be shy – get in there and mix it up!
3. Form the Meatballs:
Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place each meatball onto your prepared baking sheet. You should get about 20-24 meatballs.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and nicely browned. The smell will start to fill your kitchen!
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, let’s make the sweet sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the orange marmalade, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Heat over medium until everything is melted and well mixed. Give it a good stir!
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you want your sauce a bit thicker, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Add this to the sauce and cook for a few more minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. This step is optional, but it gives a nice coating.
7. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Once the meatballs are baked, take them out of the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Pour the delicious sauce over the meatballs and gently toss them to coat evenly. Everyone will love this tasty treat!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by garnishing your meatballs with sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them warm and provide toothpicks for easy picking! These are perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Enjoy your delightful Orange Marmalade Meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Beef or Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute for beef or turkey. Just be mindful that chicken tends to be a bit leaner, so you may want to add a little olive oil or extra breadcrumbs to keep the meatballs tender and moist.
How Can I Make These Meatballs Gluten-Free?
You can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or using crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, ensure that the soy sauce is gluten-free by opting for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to separate the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze first. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
Can I Use Other Jams or Sauces Instead of Orange Marmalade?
Yes! Feel free to switch up the flavor by using other fruit preserves like apricot or raspberry. You can also try BBQ sauce for a different taste. Just mix it the same way and adjust the soy sauce and vinegar according to your preferred flavor balance.
