Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with these Massachusetts-style Sweet and Tangy Cherry Meatballs! Imagine tender, juicy meatballs glazed in a mouthwatering cherry-soy sauce that perfectly balances sweetness and umami, creating a flavor explosion that will have your family and guests begging for seconds. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a flavor journey that combines classic American comfort food with a gourmet twist that's surprisingly easy to make.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 cup cherry preserves
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the meat mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately 1-inch in diameter. Aim to create around 24-30 meatballs depending on size preference.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly spray or coat with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the meatballs in the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally to brown evenly on all sides.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cherry preserves and soy sauce to create the sweet and tangy sauce.
- Once meatballs are browned and mostly cooked through, pour the cherry-soy sauce mixture over them in the skillet.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, gently turning meatballs to coat completely in sauce. Ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Sauce will thicken slightly during resting.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped fresh parsley or green onions. Pairs well with rice or mashed potatoes.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality ground beef with a fat content around 15-20% to ensure moist and flavorful meatballs.
- When mixing ingredients, be gentle and avoid overworking the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety without overcooking.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or parsley to the meat mixture.
- If the sauce becomes too thick while simmering, add a small splash of water or beef broth to maintain the right consistency.
- Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- For a make-ahead option, these meatballs can be prepared in advance and reheated gently in the sauce before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 95mg
