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If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that bursts with flavor yet is incredibly simple to make, this Easy Mini Meatball Skewers Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Juicy, tender meatballs are coated in a sticky, tangy-sweet glaze made from cranberry sauce and BBQ goodness, all threaded onto petite skewers for effortless serving and snacking. Perfect for game days, parties, or just a fun finger food night, these mini meatball skewers bring warmth and flavor in every bite.

ground beef in a small bowl with rich red and pink marbling, a pile of golden brown plain breadcrumbs next to it, a small white ramekin filled with finely grated pale yellow Parmesan cheese, a cracked large egg revealing bright yellow yolk inside a clear glass bowl, a small glass measuring cup with white milk, two peeled garlic cloves and a heap of minced garlic with a slightly glossy texture, a small white dish with fine beige onion powder, a tiny bowl with coarse light pink salt, a small dish containing freshly ground black pepper with specks of dark brown and black, a bunch of fresh bright green parsley leaves next to a small pile of dried parsley flakes, a small white bowl holding crushed red pepper flakes with vibrant red flecks, a smooth deep red bowl filled with whole berry cranberry sauce showing glossy berries, a small glass bowl of shiny dark reddish-brown barbecue sauce, a measuring spoon with golden honey or maple syrup glistening under soft light, a white spoon holding smooth pale yellow Dijon mustard, a small clear jar with amber apple cider vinegar, a bundle of fresh rosemary sprigs with rich green needles and a scattering of whole cocktail skewers and toothpicks with light wood tones—all neatly arranged on a pristine white marble surface with natural soft daylight, subtle shadows adding depth, styled to emphasize the variety of textures and colors, fresh and clean aesthetic, overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of taste and texture in your Easy Mini Meatball Skewers Recipe. From the savory depth of Parmesan to the sweet zing of cranberry, every element shines together beautifully.

1 lb ground beef (80/20 or beef-pork blend): The star protein providing juicy and flavorful meatballs with just the right fat content.
1/3 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style): Adds tenderness and helps the meatballs hold their shape perfectly.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts umami with a salty, nutty touch.
1 large egg: Acts as a binder for the meat mixture, keeping everything together.
2 tablespoons milk: Keeps meatballs moist and tender while baking.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses aromatic warmth and depth.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds mild sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning, bringing all flavors forward.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle peppery kick.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried): Provides a bright, fresh contrast to rich meat.
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle spicy edge if you want a little heat.
1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce: The sweet-tart base of the irresistible glaze coating.
1/4 cup barbecue sauce: Adds smoky, tangy complexity to the glaze.
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup: Sweetens and balances the tartness in the sauce.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle sharpness to brighten the glaze.
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds acidity for a well-rounded, zingy finish.
Salt to taste: To fine-tune the glaze seasoning as needed.
Fresh rosemary or parsley for garnish: For an herby pop of color and aroma at the end.
20–24 cocktail skewers or toothpicks: The perfect vessel to serve these mini meatballs for easy grabbing and sharing.

How to Make Easy Mini Meatball Skewers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Tray

First things first, set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease it to keep your meatballs from sticking, which makes cleanup a breeze and keeps the bottoms perfectly tender.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, parsley, and if you like a bit of heat, the crushed red pepper flakes. Gently mix until everything is evenly distributed but don’t overwork the meat; this keeps your meatballs tender and juicy.

Step 3: Shape the Mini Meatballs

Using a small scoop or spoon, form the meat mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch mini meatballs. Place them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet. This portion keeps them bite-size and perfect for skewering.

Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Cooked

Pop the tray in the oven and bake for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned on the outside and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F / 71°C). Once done, set them aside to rest briefly while you move on to the glaze.

Step 5: Make the Irresistible Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, turning into a sticky, flavorful glaze that’s both sweet and tangy.

Step 6: Coat the Meatballs in Glaze

Carefully toss the cooked mini meatballs into the warm glaze. Let everything simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes so the glaze clings beautifully to each bite-sized ball of goodness.

Step 7: Skewer and Garnish

Once glazed, thread each meatball onto a cocktail skewer or toothpick. Arrange them on a platter and drizzle any reserved glaze over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or parsley for a lovely pop of green and a fragrant touch.

How to Serve Easy Mini Meatball Skewers Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or even thyme elevate these skewers visually and aromatically, making each bite feel special and inviting. A light sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a few red pepper flakes on top can also add a finishing flourish.

Side Dishes

These mini meatball skewers pair wonderfully with crisp, fresh sides like a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even some creamy potato salad. For a festive touch, serve alongside crusty bread or buttery crostini to soak up any extra glaze.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, line the skewers artistically on a wooden board or tiered platter. You can also serve them in small cups or shot glasses with extra sauce at the bottom for dipping. Adding some colorful veggie sticks alongside adds texture and makes your appetizer spread pop.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover mini meatball skewers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the skewers separate from the glaze or toss everything together—either way, they maintain their flavor and texture well.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze the cooked meatballs before glazing. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with fresh glaze for maximum flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the glazed meatballs gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to prevent dryness. Reheating this way keeps the meatballs juicy and the glaze silky.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be mindful that the meatballs might be a bit less juicy, so consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or extra milk to the mixture for moisture.

Is it necessary to use cranberry sauce in the glaze?

Cranberry sauce is key to giving the glaze its unique sweet and tangy character, but if you don’t have any on hand, you can substitute with a mix of jam (like red currant or raspberry) and a splash of vinegar for balance.

How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of regular breadcrumbs. Double check your barbecue sauce ingredients as well to ensure they don’t contain gluten.

Can I prepare the meatballs completely ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble and bake the meatballs a day ahead, store them in the fridge, then warm and glaze just before serving to keep everything tasting fresh and delicious.

What’s the best way to keep the meatballs from drying out?

Use a meat blend with sufficient fat like 80/20 ground beef or a beef-pork mix, and avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Baking at a moderate temperature and adding milk to the mixture also helps retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting and joyful about serving up these Easy Mini Meatball Skewers Recipe at your next gathering. They’re fun to eat, packed with vibrant flavors, and unbelievably easy to prepare, making them an instant favorite. I can’t wait for you to try them and see how quickly they disappear—your friends and family will be asking for this recipe again and again!

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