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Gourmet Mini Meatball Appetizers

These bite-sized meatball appetizers are made by mixing seasoned ground beef with herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs, then shaping and browning them before baking to achieve a juicy interior with a crispy exterior. The result is an elegant, nostalgic snack perfect for entertaining, with a golden crust and tender inside that pairs beautifully with various dipping sauces.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 24
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 85
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (chuck and sirloin mix) preferably 80/20 for juiciness
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs for a light texture
  • 1 egg helps keep the meatballs tender
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley brightens flavor
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese shredded, adds gooey richness
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp cooking oil vegetable or canola for searing

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet with parchment paper
  • Large skillet
  • Tongs or slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
  3. Shape the mixture into small, uniform balls about 1 inch in diameter, placing them evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Keep the meatballs snug but not too tight to maintain tenderness.
  4. Heat a tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering and slightly smoky. Carefully add the meatballs in batches, avoiding overcrowding, and brown them on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per batch, until golden and crispy.
  5. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through and juices run clear. The meatballs should be firm yet juicy inside with a crisp exterior.
  6. Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Gently spoon shredded mozzarella cheese on top and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.