Are you looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s easy to make and delicious to eat? Look no further than these 20 mouth-watering frozen meatball appetizer recipes! Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a social gathering, or just need a quick snack, these tasty bites are sure to hit the spot. From classic combinations like sweet and spicy BBQ to international flavors like teriyaki and pesto, there’s something for everyone on this list.
We’ll start with some familiar favorites: Sweet and Spicy BBQ Meatball Bites, Creamy Swedish Meatball Skewers, and Teriyaki Glazed Meatball Sliders. Then we’ll get a little wild with Buffalo Ranch Meatball Poppers and Honey Garlic Meatball Skewers. And don’t even get us started on the sweet treats: Marinara-Stuffed Meatball Cups and Cheesy Meatball Stuffed Mushrooms are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Meatball Bites
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized meatballs smothered in a sweet and spicy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup Sweet and Spicy BBQ Sauce (see below for recipe)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands or a spoon to shape into small meatballs, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with Sweet and Spicy BBQ Sauce.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Sauce Recipe:
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients until smooth. Adjust sweetness and heat level to your liking.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Swedish Meatball Skewers
Creamy Swedish Meatball Skewers
A flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, these skewers are perfect for a quick and easy dinner or party appetizer.
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Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 12 wooden skewers
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Instructions:
- Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl until just combined.
- Divide mixture into 12 portions. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly to form a disk shape.
- Thread each meatball onto a skewer, leaving a small space between each one.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and heavy cream until smooth.
- Serve warm with the creamy sauce drizzled over the top.
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes. Serve immediately.
Teriyaki Glazed Meatball Sliders
Elevate your slider game with these sweet and savory Teriyaki Glazed Meatball Sliders, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat; reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with the glaze.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until meatballs are cooked through.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a meatball on each bun and topping as desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Buffalo Ranch Meatball Poppers
Transform classic meatballs into addictive poppers infused with the bold flavors of buffalo ranch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup buffalo ranch seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 12-15 mini bell peppers, any color
– Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the meat mixture into 12-15 portions. Shape each portion into a ball.
4. Place a meatball in each mini bell pepper, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle buffalo ranch seasoning on top of each meatball.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through and the peppers are tender.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Honey Garlic Meatball Skewers
Elevate your appetizer game with these sweet and savory meatball skewers, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 12-15 portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Thread 3-4 meatballs onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each ball.
5. Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Marinara-Stuffed Meatball Cups
Savor the combination of tender meatballs and flavorful marinara sauce, all wrapped up in a crispy mini cup.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 jar marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 12-15 mini muffin cups
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 12-15 portions and shape each into a ball.
4. Place a small spoonful of marinara sauce in the center of each meatball.
5. Close the meatball around the sauce, forming a tight ball.
6. Place each meatball in a mini muffin cup, seam-side down.
7. Drizzle tops with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped basil (if using).
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cheesy Meatball Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this creamy, savory delight! Succulent meatballs and melted mozzarella cheese are nestled inside earthy mushroom caps for a flavor combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean and prepare mushroom caps.
3. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley in a bowl.
4. Form into meatballs and place one meatball inside each mushroom cap.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and meatballs are cooked through.
7. Remove from oven and top each mushroom with shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Return to oven and bake an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Pesto Meatball Bruschetta
Elevate your bruschetta game with this flavorful and savory twist, featuring tender meatballs smothered in a rich pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 12-16 slices of baguette
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices and spread a spoonful of pesto sauce on each slice.
6. Once the meatballs are done, place one on top of each bruschetta.
7. Sprinkle with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry-Glazed Meatball Bites
Elevate your party with these sweet and savory meatball bites, perfect for a holiday gathering or casual get-together.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce and honey.
5. Bake meatballs for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush cranberry glaze over meatballs.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Meatball Skewers
Transform your meatball game with these spicy and savory skewers, infused with the bold flavors of sriracha and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– Wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a meatball.
4. Thread 2-3 meatballs onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each meatball.
5. Drizzle the sriracha sauce over the meatballs and gently roll to coat.
6. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs
BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs Recipe
Get ready for a flavor explosion with these mouthwatering BBQ bacon-wrapped meatballs! This recipe combines the richness of meatballs, the smokiness of BBQ sauce, and the crunch of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 meatballs.
4. Wrap each meatball with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and brush with BBQ sauce during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Meatball Dippers
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these savory Garlic Parmesan Meatball Dippers! Made with juicy meatballs, crispy breadcrumbs, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic parmesan sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve warm with garlic parmesan sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Chili Meatball Lettuce Wraps
Sweet Chili Meatball Lettuce Wraps
A twist on traditional meatball subs, these sweet chili meatball lettuce wraps are a flavorful and refreshing twist that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, leaves separated
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat the sweet chili sauce in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
6. Assemble wraps by placing 2-3 meatballs onto each lettuce leaf, followed by a spoonful of heated sweet chili sauce and a sprinkle of shredded cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Meatball Bites
Elevate your party game with these spicy and savory bites that combine the flavors of jalapeños, cream cheese, and meatballs. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 2-3 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, jalapeños, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each bite.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Greek-Style Meatball Pita Pockets
Experience the flavors of Greece with these juicy meatballs wrapped in crispy pita bread, topped with creamy tzatziki sauce and fresh cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Sliced cucumber
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble by placing a few meatballs in each pita, followed by a dollop of tzatziki sauce and sliced cucumber.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asian Sesame Meatball Skewers
Transform your next gathering with these bite-sized Asian-inspired meatballs, smothered in a savory sesame glaze and grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Thread meatballs onto skewers, leaving a small space between each meatball.
5. Brush meatballs with sesame glaze (equal parts soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey) during last minute of grilling.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions and sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Meatball-Stuffed Bread Bowls
Elevate your snack game with these mouthwatering bread bowls stuffed with juicy meatballs and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Italian bread (about 12 inches long)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake meatballs for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Slice bread loaf in half lengthwise. Hollow out the inside, leaving a shell about 1 inch thick.
6. Stuff each bread bowl with 3-4 meatballs and spoon some marinara sauce over them.
7. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake stuffed bread bowls for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Taco-Spiced Meatball Nachos
Get ready to elevate your nacho game with this unique recipe that combines the flavors of Mexico and Italy!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– 1 bag (12-15 count) tortilla chips
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced red onion
– Sour cream and salsa for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, taco seasoning, and cilantro in a bowl until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 12-15) and bake on a lined baking sheet for 18 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, arrange tortilla chips in an oven-safe dish.
5. Remove meatballs from the oven and place on top of chips.
6. Spoon refried beans over the meatballs.
7. Top with shredded cheese and diced red onion.
8. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve hot with sour cream and salsa, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Maple Dijon Meatball Appetizers
A sweet and savory twist on traditional meatballs, these bite-sized appetizers are perfect for your next gathering. With a combination of ground beef, pork, and breadcrumbs, and a tangy maple dijon glaze, you’ll be the hit of the party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Maple dijon glaze (see below)
– Toothpicks or skewers, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, prepare the maple dijon glaze by whisking together 1/4 cup pure maple syrup and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with maple dijon glaze.
7. Serve warm, toothpick or skewer in place.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Bruschetta-Topped Meatball Bites
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized meatballs topped with a flavorful bruschetta mixture. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each meatball.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, mix together chopped basil, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic glaze in a small bowl.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and top with the bruschetta mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering frozen meatball appetizer recipes that are sure to please any crowd. From classic combinations like BBQ and teriyaki, to spicy twists like buffalo ranch and sriracha, these easy-to-make bites offer something for everyone. Enjoy sweet and savory flavors in dishes like honey garlic skewers, marinara-stuffed cups, and cheesy bread bowls. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a quick snack, these crowd-pleasing meatball appetizers are sure to satisfy.