Apple Butter Meatballs Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 4 servings.

Meatballs

• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup finely minced white onion
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup milk
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Apple Butter Bourbon Glaze

• 1/2 cup apple butter
• 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt to taste

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, panko bread crumbs, onion, milk, egg, salt, granulated garlic, and pepper. If the mixture is too soft or wet, refrigerate it for 15 to 20 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Shape the mixture into 24 meatballs, each about 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are no longer pink in the center and browned on the outside. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the meatballs should read 165F (74C).

Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the apple butter bourbon glaze. In a small saucepan, whisk together apple butter, bourbon, soy sauce, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard.

Step 6: Bring the glaze mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. Stir frequently for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and is smooth.

Step 7: Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl.

Step 8: Pour the apple butter bourbon glaze over the meatballs and gently toss to coat them evenly.

Step 9: Serve the glazed meatballs warm.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 500
• Total Fat: 24g (30% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 9g (44% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 151mg (50% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1188mg (52% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 30g (11% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 34g (68% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (2% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 89mg (7% Daily Value)
• Iron: 3mg (18% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 592mg (13% Daily Value)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Origins of Apple Butter Meatballs

Apple Butter Meatballs trace their roots to American culinary traditions that combine sweet and savory flavors in unexpected ways. The use of apple butter, a concentrated apple spread cooked down with spices, became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries in the United States, particularly in Pennsylvania Dutch communities. These communities prized preservation techniques and developed apple butter as a way to enjoy the flavor of apples year-round. Incorporating apple butter into meat dishes allowed cooks to create rich, flavorful glazes that complemented the savory profile of ground meats.

Regional Variations

While the dish is generally recognized as American, regional differences highlight local tastes and ingredients. In the Mid-Atlantic, apple butter meatballs often include a touch of bourbon or whiskey, lending warmth and depth to the glaze. In Southern states, maple syrup or brown sugar is sometimes added for extra sweetness, while in New England, cider vinegar may be incorporated for a tangy contrast. These subtle adaptations reflect the diversity of American home cooking and the flexibility of the recipe to suit local palates.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Apple Butter Meatballs stand out from other meatball recipes due to their signature glaze. Unlike Italian meatballs, which often rely on tomato sauces, or Swedish meatballs, which are traditionally served in a creamy gravy, apple butter meatballs balance sweet, tart, and umami flavors. The apple butter glaze caramelizes slightly when baked, creating a glossy, flavorful coating that is both unique and versatile. This distinctive combination of sweetness and savory spices is what sets the dish apart.

Serving Occasions

These meatballs are commonly served as appetizers at holiday gatherings, dinner parties, and festive events. They are popular at potlucks and buffets because they can be made in large batches and served warm or at room temperature. Some families even enjoy them as part of a casual weeknight dinner, pairing them with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to balance the sweet glaze with hearty sides.

Interesting Facts

Apple butter itself has an intriguing history: it was originally made in large copper kettles over open fires, stirred continuously for hours to achieve its thick consistency. In modern times, this labor-intensive process is largely replaced by slow cookers or stovetop simmering. Another fascinating aspect is the use of bourbon in the glaze; alcohol enhances the depth of flavor and adds subtle caramel notes, though most of it evaporates during cooking. Lastly, these meatballs exemplify a trend in American cuisine of combining sweet preserves with savory proteins, a culinary approach that continues to inspire chefs today.

FAQ about Apple Butter Meatballs Recipe

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