Sticky Bourbon Bacon Party Meatballs

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 slices bacon, cut into thirds
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Steps

1. 1 In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. 2 Roll mixture into 1-inch balls. You should have about 3 dozen.
3. 3 Wrap each meatball with a piece of bacon.
4. 4 In a large skillet, cook the meatballs over medium heat until the bacon is crispy and the meatballs are cooked through, about 10 minutes, turning occasionally.
5. 5 Remove the meatballs and set aside.
6. 6 In the same skillet, add bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
7. 7 Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
8. 8 Return the meatballs to the skillet, coating them with the sauce.
9. 9 Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 minutes, basting occasionally with the sauce.
10. 10 Serve hot with extra sauce for dipping.

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Baking sheet

Variations

• For a kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture or the sauce.

Substitutions

• If bourbon isn't your thing, substitute with apple juice for a sweet twist.

Pairings

• Serve with creamy coleslaw.
• Pair with a robust red wine.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a richer flavor, let the meatballs rest in the sauce after baking for at least 15 minutes before serving.
• Use kitchen twine to secure bacon if needed for smaller meatballs.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven until warmed through.

Freezing: Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and cook as directed.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking.
• Pair with a crisp salad for a balanced appetizer platter.

FAQ