Buffalo Beef Meatballs Recipe

Introduction

Buffalo Beef Meatballs are the ultimate game-day snack, party appetizer, or dinner option for anyone who loves bold, spicy flavors combined with savory beef. These meatballs are infused with the signature heat of buffalo sauce, making them a perfect bite-sized treat for those who enjoy a little spice in their life. The rich and flavorful beef meatballs are coated in a tangy, buttery buffalo sauce that gives them a delicious kick, and they’re the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and satisfying.

Whether you’re hosting a big gathering, need a delicious appetizer for a special occasion, or just want a flavorful dinner option, Buffalo Beef Meatballs are a crowd-pleasing dish that will satisfy your cravings for both spice and comfort. This guide will walk you through how to prepare these mouthwatering meatballs, offer tips to ensure perfect results, and provide ideas for fun variations to keep things exciting.

Why You’ll Love Buffalo Beef Meatballs

• Bold and Flavorful: The combination of ground beef, seasonings, and buffalo sauce creates a flavor-packed meatball that packs a punch. The buffalo sauce provides a perfect balance of heat, tanginess, and a buttery richness, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re preparing for a casual dinner, a party, or a game day gathering, Buffalo Beef Meatballs make an ideal choice. They are versatile and always a crowd favorite.
• Easy to Make: These meatballs are simple to prepare and require just a handful of ingredients, making them perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. They’re baked in the oven for a hands-off approach, so you can focus on other tasks while they cook.
• Great Texture: The beef meatballs are tender and juicy, while the buffalo sauce adds an extra layer of moisture and flavor, making them deliciously juicy and savory.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice level, add extras like cheese or herbs, and even tweak the sauce to make the recipe fit your taste preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 24-30 meatballs (depending on size)
• Calories per Serving: Around 120-140 calories per meatball, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 120-140 kcal
• Fat: 7-9g
• Carbohydrates: 2-4g
• Protein: 10-12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0-2g

Ingredients

For the Buffalo Beef Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Buffalo Sauce:

• ¾ cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or your favorite brand)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for extra tang)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the meatballs from sticking.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients until they are just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as that can result in tough meatballs. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape when formed into meatballs.

2. Form the Meatballs

Once the mixture is ready, take about 1-1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Place each meatball onto the prepared baking sheet. Try to make each meatball roughly the same size to ensure even cooking. If you have trouble getting the meatballs to hold their shape, you can wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.

3. Bake the Meatballs

Once all the meatballs are formed, place them in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside. You can check if the meatballs are fully cooked by inserting a meat thermometer into the center— they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Keep in mind that baking times can vary depending on the size of the meatballs, so check them after 20 minutes and adjust the time as needed.

4. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, you can prepare the buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the buffalo sauce, honey or brown sugar (if using), and apple cider vinegar (if using). Stir the mixture to combine, and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly, then remove from heat.

If you prefer a sweeter buffalo sauce, feel free to add more honey or sugar to taste. For a tangier sauce, add a little more apple cider vinegar. You can also adjust the spiciness by adding more buffalo sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper, depending on your preference.

5. Coat the Meatballs with Buffalo Sauce

Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the meatballs and toss gently to coat them evenly. Be careful not to break the meatballs apart while tossing. If you like a thicker coating of sauce, feel free to add more buffalo sauce.

6. Serve and Garnish

Transfer the coated meatballs to a serving platter. If desired, sprinkle them with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. These meatballs can be served immediately while hot, or you can keep them warm in a slow cooker for a party or gathering.

Serve with toothpicks for easy serving or as part of a larger spread with dipping sauces, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing, and side options like celery sticks, carrot sticks, or chips.

Tips for Perfect Buffalo Beef Meatballs

• Use the Right Ground Beef: For juicy meatballs, use ground beef with some fat content, such as 80% lean. Leaner ground beef (e.g., 90% lean) can result in drier meatballs, so avoid going too lean if you want a tender texture.
• Don’t Overwork the Meatball Mixture: When mixing the meatball ingredients, be careful not to overwork the meat. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you like your buffalo sauce spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra buffalo sauce. For a milder version, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix in a little more butter to tone down the heat.
• Add a Touch of Sweetness: The sweetness of honey or brown sugar in the buffalo sauce helps to balance out the spiciness. You can adjust the sweetness level to suit your taste, or omit it entirely if you prefer a more traditional spicy buffalo flavor.
• Check for Doneness: To ensure that the meatballs are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Meatballs should reach 160°F (71°C) to be safe to eat.

Variations of Buffalo Beef Meatballs

• Buffalo Chicken Meatballs: For a lighter alternative, use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef. The buffalo sauce pairs perfectly with the lean meat, making for a flavorful and healthier version of these meatballs.
• Cheese-Stuffed Buffalo Meatballs: For an extra indulgent twist, stuff the meatballs with a cube of mozzarella or cheddar cheese before baking. When you bite into these meatballs, the cheese will melt, adding a gooey, cheesy center that complements the spicy buffalo sauce.
• Vegetarian Buffalo Meatballs: For a vegetarian-friendly version, swap the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or cooked quinoa and beans. Combine the plant-based mixture with breadcrumbs and seasonings for a hearty, buffalo-flavored alternative.
• BBQ Buffalo Meatballs: Mix BBQ sauce with buffalo sauce for a tangier, less spicy version of the meatballs. The sweet and smoky BBQ flavor adds a nice contrast to the heat of the buffalo sauce.
• Buffalo Beef Meatballs with Blue Cheese: If you’re a fan of the classic buffalo wing pairing, add crumbled blue cheese into the meatball mixture or sprinkle it on top of the cooked meatballs. The bold, tangy blue cheese flavor complements the spicy buffalo sauce perfectly.

Storage and Shelf Life

Buffalo Beef Meatballs are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later. To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the meatballs in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little extra buffalo sauce to keep them moist.

For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs. Allow them to cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or reheat in the microwave.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Buffalo Beef Meatballs

While the meatballs are delicious on their own, you can enhance your meal with some complementary sides:

• Celery and Carrot Sticks: The crunchy, refreshing vegetables are a classic pairing for buffalo-flavored dishes and help balance out the heat.
• Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Serve alongside dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing to cool down the spice and add a creamy contrast to the heat.
• Tortilla Chips or Crackers: For a more substantial snack, serve the meatballs with crunchy tortilla chips or crackers for dipping.
• Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy meatballs and adds a great texture to your meal.
• Mac and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is another great side dish that complements the heat of the buffalo sauce, making for a comforting, indulgent meal.

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Conclusion

Buffalo Beef Meatballs are the perfect combination of spicy, savory, and tender, making them a go-to appetizer or main dish for any occasion. Their rich flavor and satisfying texture make them a hit at parties, game days, and family gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.

Whether you enjoy them as a snack or serve them as part of a larger meal, these meatballs are sure to be a crowd favorite. With a few easy variations and helpful tips, you can customize them to fit your taste and make them even more delicious. Enjoy the heat and flavor of Buffalo Beef Meatballs—your taste buds will thank you!