Description
These Donkey Balls are flavorful baked meatballs made with ground beef, cheddar cheese, and a blend of spices, topped with a tangy ketchup and Worcestershire sauce glaze. Perfect as a savory appetizer or party snack, they are easy to prepare and bake to juicy perfection in just under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, if preferred)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt to taste
Glaze Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Donkey Balls: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, optional green bell pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Form the mixture into approximately 1-inch diameter meatballs or larger if preferred.
- Bake the Donkey Balls: Arrange the meatballs evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned on the outside and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Apply Optional Glaze: About 5 minutes before the meatballs finish baking, mix together 2 tablespoons of ketchup and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Brush this glaze over the top of each meatball to add a sweet and tangy finish and allow it to set while finishing baking.
- Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, BBQ sauce, or hot sauce for an enjoyable appetizer.
Notes
- Ground turkey can be used instead of beef for a leaner option.
- The green bell pepper is optional but adds a nice crunch and flavor.
- Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach a safe internal temperature of 160°F.
- The glaze can be adjusted by adding more ketchup or Worcestershire sauce to taste.
- Leftover meatballs can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: meatballs, baked meatballs, party appetizers, ground beef recipe, savory snacks, Donkey Balls recipe, easy meatballs, cheesy meatballs
