Best Amazing Appetizer Mini Meatball Cups Recipes

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20 BEST MEATBALL APPETIZERS



20 Best Meatball Appetizers image

Serve these meatball appetizers at your next gathering for easy starters your guests will love! From sliders to glazed meatballs to flatbread, these irresistible bites are delicious and easy.

Provided by insanelygood

Categories     Appetizers     Recipe Roundup

Number Of Ingredients 20

Lil Smokies and Meatballs Appetizer
Slow Cooker Bourbon Meatballs
Meatball Sliders
Swedish Meatballs
Sticky Thai Meatballs
Tangy Glazed Meatballs
Hawaiian Meatballs
Mini Meatball Subs
Meatball Flatbread
Sticky Asian Meatballs
Honey Garlic Meatballs
Meatball Bombs
Teriyaki Chicken Meatball Kabobs
Meatball Taquitos
Meatball Sub Dip
Baked Meatball Wontons
Meatball Sub on a Stick
Banh Mi Meatball Lettuce Cups
Barbecue Meatball Cheesy Sweet Potato Bites
Jalapeno Popper Meatballs

Steps:

  • Select your favorite recipe.
  • Organize all the required ingredients.
  • Prep a meatball appetizer in 30 minutes or less!

Nutrition Facts :

AMAZING APPETIZER: MINI MEATBALL CUPS



Amazing Appetizer: Mini Meatball Cups image

These are similar to an appetizer we served at Diamond Jim's in Chicago... many years ago. I usually make my own puff pastry; however, for the recipe some good store-bought puff pastry will do just fine. So, you ready... Let's get into the kitchen.

Provided by Andy Anderson !

Categories     Meat Appetizers

Time 40m

Number Of Ingredients 5

PLAN/PURCHASE
1 sheet(s) puff pastry sheet, thawed
12 small fully cooked meatballs, completely frozen (your favorite recipe)
1/2 c marinara sauce, smooth, not chunky (your favorite recipe)
fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded, for topping

Steps:

  • 1. PREP/PREPARE
  • 2. Gather your ingredients.
  • 3. Chef's Tip: The meatballs should be small, only about 1-inch (2.5cm) in diameter, fully cooked and completely frozen (more on freezing the meatballs later).
  • 4. Place the defrosted puff pastry sheet on a clean surface, dusted with a bit of flour.
  • 5. Cut the dough, into 2-inch (4cm) squares.
  • 6. Chef's Tip: The size of your pastry squares will vary a bit, depending on the type of mini muffin pan you are using.
  • 7. Chef's Tip: If you have some puff pastry scraps, just brush them with butter, sprinkle with some sugar and cinnamon, and then pop into the oven... YUM.
  • 8. Lightly oil the muffin pan.
  • 9. Place a rack in the middle position, and preheat the oven to 400f (205c).
  • 10. Chef's Note: 400f (205c) is the standard temperature for working with puff pastry.
  • 11. Add the dough to cups of the mini pan.
  • 12. Place one of the frozen meatballs into each one of the cups.
  • 13. Chef's Note: Why cook your meatballs, and then freeze them? Well, I tried doing the meatballs three ways: 1. Precooked, but not frozen... Meatballs come out overcooked and dry. 2. Raw, frozen or unfrozen... Meatballs never cook completely through. 3. Precooked, and frozen... Meatballs come out hot and juicy.
  • 14. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through, and the pastry is crispy and golden.
  • 15. Remove from the oven, add 1/2 teaspoon of the marinara sauce to the top of each meatball cup.
  • 16. Chef's Tip: If the weather is really cold, add a bit of cayenne to the marinara sauce.
  • 17. Sprinkle with some mozzarella cheese.
  • 18. Return to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly.
  • 19. PLATE/PRESENT
  • 20. Serve while still warm, on a nice serving platter. Enjoy.
  • 21. Keep the faith, and keep cooking.

MINI MAC & CHEESE MEATBALL CUPS



Mini Mac & Cheese Meatball Cups image

Enjoy our recipe for Mini Mac and Cheese Meatball Cups. This special recipe is great for parties and big get-together.

Provided by My Food and Family

Categories     Dairy

Time 40m

Yield 6 servings, 2 mac and cheese cups each

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 pkg. (7-1/4 oz.) KRAFT Macaroni & Cheese Dinner
1 cup KRAFT Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, divided
1 egg, beaten
2 Tbsp. KRAFT Grated Parmesan Cheese
12 frozen fully cooked turkey meatballs (1/2 oz. each)
1 cup CLASSICO Tomato and Basil Pasta Sauce

Steps:

  • Heat oven to 400ºF.
  • Prepare Dinner as directed on package, using the Light Prep directions. Remove from heat. Add 1/2 cup mozzarella; stir until melted. Stir in egg.
  • Sprinkle 1/2 tsp. Parmesan into each of 12 muffin pan cups sprayed with cooking spray. Fill with Dinner mixture; press 1 meatball into Dinner mixture in each cup.
  • Bake 15 min. or until meatballs are heated through (165ºF). Top with remaining mozzarella; bake 3 min. or until melted. Let stand 5 min. Meanwhile, heat pasta sauce.
  • Serve mac and cheese cups topped with sauce.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 290, Fat 12 g, SaturatedFat 5 g, TransFat 0 g, Cholesterol 65 mg, Sodium 720 mg, Carbohydrate 0 g, Fiber 1 g, Sugar 0 g, Protein 18 g

MINI ASIAN MEATBALLS IN LETTUCE CUPS



Mini Asian Meatballs in Lettuce Cups image

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Ingredients     Meat & Poultry     Beef Recipes     Ground Beef Recipes

Time 30m

Number Of Ingredients 10

1/2 cup chopped garlic (from 12 cloves)
3 tablespoons chopped peeled fresh ginger (from a 3-inch piece)
3 scallions, chopped (1/4 cup)
1 pound ground beef (80 percent lean)
1 teaspoon fish sauce, such as nam pla
1 teaspoon coarse salt
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Bibb lettuce leaves, cilantro sprigs, sliced Thai chiles, and chopped roasted peanuts, for serving

Steps:

  • Finely chop together garlic, ginger, and scallions. In a bowl, gently combine garlic mixture with ground beef, fish sauce, and salt. Form mixture into 52 meatballs, each 1 inch in diameter.
  • Heat oil in a large skillet over high. Working in batches, fry meatballs until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes a batch.
  • In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise and lime juice. Serve meatballs in lettuce cups, with lime mayonnaise and accompaniments.

Appetizers are the perfect way to kick off any meal or event. They are easy to prepare, visually appealing and most importantly, delicious. When it comes to appetizers, meatball cups are the perfect bite-sized treat that everyone will love. There are several amazing appetizer mini meatball cups recipes that you can try.

The Benefits of Mini Meatball Cups

Mini meatball cups are an excellent appetizer choice because of the several benefits they offer. Firstly, they are a perfect size for guests to pick up and nibble on. Secondly, they allow for variety as you can create different meat and flavor combinations. Lastly, they can be prepared in advance, making your party preparations a lot easier.

Amazing Meat Options for Meatball Cups

While meatballs are traditionally made with beef, you can switch things up by using different meats. Ground chicken, pork or lamb can make a delicious variation that your guests will rave about. Additionally, you can opt for different flavor combinations to add an exciting twist to your meatball cups. Spicy Italian, sweet and savory Asian, and tangy BBQ flavors are just a few suggestions to consider.

Choosing the Right Cheese

Cheese adds the perfect touch to meatball cups. You can choose from a variety of cheese options that complement your meat and flavor combination. Mozzarella, cheddar or parmesan cheese are excellent options to pick from. Additionally, you can add a creamy element to your meatball cups with a dollop of ricotta cheese or cream cheese.

Creating the Perfect Crust

The crust of your meatball cups can make or break your appetizer. Opt for a crust that complements your meat and cheese choices. You can use puff pastry, pizza dough, or pre-made wonton wrappers to create your crust. You can also add a topping of breadcrumbs or sesame seeds to give that extra crunch.

Innovative Meatball Cup Fillings

Beyond meat and cheese, you can add a variety of fillings to your meatball cups. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and peppers are great options to add an extra layer of flavor. You could also mix in some cooked quinoa or couscous for extra texture. To give your meatball cups a gourmet touch, consider adding in chopped sundried tomatoes, olives or artichoke hearts.

Vegetarian Meatball Cups

Not everyone is a meat lover. Vegetarian meatball cups are the perfect solution for vegetarians or those looking for a meat-free option. You can use meat alternatives like tofu, seitan, or tempeh to create your vegetarian meatball. The same principles can apply when choosing cheese, crust and fillings for your vegetarian meatball cups.

How to Serve Mini Meatball Cups

Meatball cups are versatile and easy to serve. You can display them in a muffin tray, mini cups or on a platter. You could even make them into skewers and serve them as a unique party snack. For a casual gathering, you can serve them with dipping sauces like marinara, sweet chilli, or tzatziki.

Conclusion

There are several amazing appetizer mini meatball cups recipes that you can try. By selecting the right meat, cheese, crust, and filling options, you can create a delicious bite-sized appetizer that will impress your guests. With the ability to prepare them in advance, they are the perfect party-prep solution. Meatball cups are undoubtedly an appetizer that will add a touch of elegance and flavor to any event.
When it comes to entertaining guests or preparing dishes for your family, appetizers are a great way to start any meal. Mini meatball cups are a versatile appetizer that can be enjoyed by everyone, especially those who love meatballs. They are fun, easy to handle, and can be customized to suit any taste. In this article, we will discuss valuable tips for making amazing appetizer mini meatball cups recipes that will leave your guests wanting more.

Tip 1: Choose the Right Meat

The kind of meat you choose is crucial when making mini meatball cups. Ground beef, turkey, chicken, and pork are all great options. However, it is essential to choose meat with the right fat content for the best flavor and texture. You want meat that is not too lean or too fatty. For best results, use ground meat that is around 80% lean and 20% fat. The fat adds flavor and moisture to the meatballs, making them more tender and juicy.

Tip 2: Add Moist Ingredients

The secret to juicy and flavorful mini meatballs is to add moist ingredients to the meat mixture. You can add grated onion, garlic, egg, milk, or breadcrumbs to the mixture. The moist ingredients help bind the meatballs together and keep them tender. Breadcrumbs also add structure to the meatballs, preventing them from falling apart.

Tip 3: Season Well

The key to delicious mini meatballs is to season them well. Use your preferred mix of spices and herbs to add flavor to the mixture. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasonings like oregano and basil are great options. You can also add a kick to the meatballs with cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

Tip 4: Use a Mini Muffin Tin

Using a mini muffin tin to bake mini meatball cups will give you the perfect size and shape. The mini muffin cups hold the meatballs nicely, and the mini size ensures they are easy to handle and enjoyable in a single bite.

Tip 5: Make Ahead of Time

One advantage of mini meatball cups is that they can be made ahead. You can prepare the meat mixture and shape the meatballs a few days before baking the cups. The baked cups can also be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw the cups before reheating them in the oven.

Tip 6: Choose the Right Cheese

Cheese is an excellent addition to mini meatball cups. It can be added to the meat mixture or placed on top of the cups. Cheese gives the cups an extra flavor and a melted, gooey texture. Mozzarella, parmesan, cheddar, and feta cheeses are all great options, depending on what flavors you want to add.

Tip 7: Experiment with Different Sauces

The sauce is what brings mini meatball cups together. Marinara sauce is a classic option for meatballs, but you can try other sauces for a twist of flavor. Barbecue sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or teriyaki sauce are all great options. The choice of sauce depends on your preference and the occasion.

Tip 8: Add Vegetables

Mini meatball cups can benefit from the addition of vegetables. Vegetables like bell pepper, zucchini, spinach, or carrots can be added to the meat mixture, giving it an extra flavor and nutritional value. Vegetables also add moisture, texture, and color to the mini cups.

Tip 9: Keep the Meatballs Moist

The last thing anyone wants is dry meatballs. To keep your mini meatballs moist, avoid overcooking them. Bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. You can also add a little water or broth to the bottom of the baking tray, creating steam that helps keep the meatballs moist.

Tip 10: Add a Garnish

A garnish can add some flair to your mini meatball cups, making them more attractive and appetizing. You can add fresh herbs like parsley or basil, sliced green onions, chopped tomatoes, or grated cheese on top of the cups. The garnish complements the flavors and textures of the meatballs, making the cups more enjoyable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mini meatball cups are a perfect appetizer for any occasion or meal. To make them amazing, you need to choose the right meat, add moist ingredients, season well, use a mini muffin tin, make ahead of time, choose the right cheese, experiment with different sauces, add vegetables, keep the meatballs moist, and add a garnish. Follow these valuable tips, and your mini meatball cups will always be a hit with your guests, family, and friends.

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