Grilled skewered meatballs are a delicious and versatile dish that combines the juiciness of meatballs with the smoky flavor of the grill. Perfect for parties, barbecues, or a simple family dinner, these meatballs are easy to prepare and sure to be a hit with everyone. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces and sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef or pork (or a mix)
- 1/2 cup (50g) breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
- Olive oil, for brushing
For the Dipping Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup (120ml) marinara sauce or barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup (60ml) mayonnaise mixed with 1 tablespoon sriracha
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk.
- Add the ground meat, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined, but avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Form the Meatballs:
- With wet hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Thread 3-4 meatballs onto each skewer, leaving a little space between each meatball for even cooking.
3. Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Meatballs:
- Place the skewers on the preheated grill.
- Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meatballs are cooked through and have a nice char on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for pork.
5. Serve:
- Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the grilled skewered meatballs hot, with dipping sauces on the side if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or a side of rice or couscous.
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara, barbecue sauce, or a spicy mayo.
Cooking Tips:
- Use a mix of beef and pork for a more flavorful and juicy meatball.
- Soak wooden skewers in water before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- Ensure even cooking by leaving a small space between the meatballs on the skewer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Juicy and Flavorful: The meatballs are tender and juicy, with a rich flavor enhanced by the grill.
- Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or part of a larger meal, these skewers can be paired with various sides and sauces.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all levels.
Conclusion:
Grilled skewered meatballs are a delightful and versatile dish that brings together the deliciousness of meatballs with the smoky flavor of the grill. Perfect for any occasion, these skewers are easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the juicy, flavorful meatballs with your favorite dipping sauces and sides, and savor the taste of summer grilling!