Mini Maple Meatballs

Tender beef-and-pork mini meatballs are seasoned with garlic and spices, then simmered in a glossy maple-apple glaze for a sweet, savory crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Recipe Information

Total Time:

Yield:

15 servings

Ingredients

1 egg

3 tablespoons milk

2 slices white or whole wheat bread, torn into crumbs

1⁄2 pound lean ground beef

1⁄2 pound ground pork

4 cloves garlic, minced

1⁄2 teaspoon salt

1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper

1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, divided

2⁄3 cup pure maple syrup

1⁄2 cup apple juice

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon vinegar

1½ teaspoons cornstarch

1½ teaspoons ground mustard

Fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F. For meatballs, in a large bowl combine egg, milk and bread crumbs. Stir in groundbeef, pork, garlic, salt, pepper and ⅛ teaspoon cayenne until thoroughly mixed. Shape into 30 1-inch balls. Arrange in a 13x9-inch baking dish.
For glaze, in a bowl combine maple syrup, apple juice, soy sauce, vinegar, cornstarch, ground mustard and remaining ⅛ teaspoon cayenne; pour over meatballs.
Bake about 45 minutes or until meatballs are browned and sauce is slightly thickened. If desired, sprinkle with a few thyme leaves just before serving.