Spicy Beef and Bacon Meatballs Are Perfect for the Holidays
Let’s face it—holiday entertaining is all about creating those “wow” moments. These meatballs deliver with a tantalizing combination of ground beef, smoky bacon, and a kick of spice that’s just enough to warm you up without overpowering. They’re bite-sized bundles of flavor, perfect for mingling with a cocktail in hand.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Serve them as an appetizer with a tangy dipping sauce, or turn them into a main course by pairing them with pasta or a festive salad. Either way, they’re guaranteed to be the talk of your gathering.
What Makes Spicy Beef and Bacon Meatballs So Special?
I love creating recipes that deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss, and these meatballs hit the mark. The combination of juicy ground beef and smoky bacon creates a base that’s hard to resist. Add in chili flakes and a lots of garlic, and you’ve got yourself an irresistible appetizer.
Unlike typical party fare, these meatballs bring a dynamic range of flavors that suit every palate. The spice adds a touch of excitement, while the bacon provides the comfort of a home-cooked treat.
Tips for Making Spicy Beef and Bacon Meatballs
The secret to tender meatballs is keeping the mixture moist and not over-mixing. A little milk-soaked bread works wonders for the texture.
Bake them in the oven for easy cleanup.
Holiday Happiness in Every Bite
When I entertain, I focus on recipes that keep me out of the kitchen and with my guests. These meatballs fit the bill perfectly. I mix the beef, bacon, and seasonings, roll them into bite-sized portions, and bake them until golden. Baking saves time and effort while ensuring each meatball stays juicy and tender.
Why Spicy Beef and Bacon Meatballs Steal the Show
The holidays are about joy, and nothing brings people together like food that sparks conversation. These Spicy Beef and Bacon Meatballs check all the boxes—simple, flavorful, and utterly delicious. Trust me, they’ll disappear before you know it!
Thanks for reading.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- ¼ lb bacon, chopped very fine
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped finely
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes
- 1/4 cup Italian parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 1/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 4 slices stale white bread, crusts removed - cut into 1/2 inch cubes
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated parmesan
Instructions
- Preheat oven 400*F
- Place bread cubes in a medium sized mixing bowl with milk to soak for 10 minutes
- Add the Italian bread crumbs, dried chillies, parsley, rosemary, salt, pepper, garlic, onion and grated parmesan and mix gently with a rubber spatula.
- Add beaten eggs and mix well
- Add ground beef, ground pork and finely chopped bacon, using your hands, mix gently but well.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- If using large ice cream scoop, place meatballs on baking tray…bake 20 - 22 minutes. If you have an instant read meat probe the temperature should be 160*F. If you want smaller meatballs, use a smaller scoop and reduce the cook time to 18 minutes. You still want the internal temperature at 160*F
- Remove from oven and serve plain or with a sauce.
Notes
THE LOVE: The most important tip for making any kind of meatball is to not over work the meat mixture. Use a light touch and you'll have tender, delicious meatballs.
