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Blackberry Chipotle Meatballs

These cozy meatballs combine sweet blackberry preserves with smoky chipotle for a dinner that’s both easy and comforting.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meatball Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef (or beef and pork mix) Use a mix for added flavor.
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Use day-old breadcrumbs if possible.
  • 1 each egg Large egg, beaten.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic = bigger flavor.
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds deep warmth.
Sauce Ingredients
  • 1 cup blackberry preserves Use high-quality preserves.
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced Adjust for desired heat.
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika; mix until just combined.
  3. Roll the mixture into about 1-inch meatballs and arrange them on the sheet, leaving small gaps.
Cooking
  1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the edges turn golden and the meatballs are cooked through (165°F center).
  2. Meanwhile, heat a saucepan and stir together the blackberry preserves, chipotle, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce.
  3. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, then cook for 4-6 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  4. When the meatballs are done, transfer them into the pan and toss gently so they glisten with sauce.
Serving
  1. Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles, or set them out with toothpicks for cocktail hour.

Notes

These meatballs are forgiving—mix lightly and shape quickly to avoid dense meatballs. Try stirring chopped cilantro into the sauce for a fresh finish.