Smoky Cherry Pepper Pork Meatballs is a dish that masterfully blends the rich flavors of pork shoulder and bacon with the tangy zest of sweet cherry peppers and the subtle heat of chili pepper juice. This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, making it a standout addition to any meal.
Smoky Cherry Pepper Pork Meatballs
Tom Jackson
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Appetizer
Cuisine
American
Servings
8
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Calories
508
Crafted with care, these meatballs are seasoned with Cattleman's Grill Tri-Tip Seasoning, ensuring each bite is packed with savory goodness. Whether served as a hearty appetizer or a main course, their unique flavor profile is sure to impress guests and satisfy cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 lbs Pork Shoulder
- 1/2 lb Bacon
- 10 Sweet Cherry Peppers
- 1/4 cup Hot Chili Pepper Juice
-
1 lb bread torn into pieces (the drier, the better)
- 4 eggs
-
4 tbsp Cattleman's Grill Tri-Tip Seasoning
Directions
Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed pork shoulder and chopped bacon.
- Add the sweet cherry peppers, hot chili pepper juice, torn bread, eggs, and Cattleman's Grill Tri-Tip Seasoning.
- Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
Grind the Mixture:
Using a meat grinder, process the mixture until it reaches a uniform consistency.
Form the Meatballs:
- Roll the ground mixture into evenly sized meatballs, approximately 2 inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs in a buttered foil pan, ensuring they are spaced evenly.
Cook the Meatballs:
- Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Place the pan on the grill or in the oven and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 170°F (77°C).
Use a meat thermometer to accurately gauge the temperature.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or main dish, accompanied by your favorite sides or sauces.
Recipe Note
What You'll Love About This Recipe
Bold Flavors: The combination of pork, bacon, and cherry peppers creates a rich and savory taste with a hint of sweetness and spice.
Versatility: These meatballs can be served in various ways—on their own, with pasta, or in a sandwich.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the meatballs in advance and reheat them when needed, making meal planning a breeze.
FAQ: Smoky Cherry Pepper Pork Meatballs
Q: Can I use pre-ground pork instead of grinding my own?
A: Yes, you can use pre-ground pork, but grinding your own allows for better control over texture and fat content.
Q: How spicy are these meatballs?
A: The heat level is moderate, but you can adjust the amount of hot chili pepper juice to suit your taste.atbbq.com
Q: Can I freeze the meatballs for later use?
A: Absolutely. Cooked meatballs can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Q: What sides pair well with these meatballs?
A: These meatballs go well with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Q: Can I cook these indoors?
We rate these as a 5 out of 5. Perfect for indoor or outdoor cooking.
Nutrition
Nutrition
- Serving Size
- 11.68 oz
- per serving
- Calories
- 508
- Carbs
- 21 grams
- Protein
- 34 grams
- Fat
- 31 grams
- Sodium
- 1919 milligrams
