These glossy, tender meatballs get the ultimate holiday glow-up with buttery bourbon, cozy spices, and a sweet peach glaze that clings to every bite. They’re effortless, festive, and disappear the moment they hit the table!
📋 ingredients:
meatballs:
• 1½ lbs ground beef (or beef + pork mix)
• 1 egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
peach bourbon glaze:
• 1 cup peach preserves
• ¼ cup bourbon
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
• Pinch of cinnamon
• Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
🥣 directions:
1. mix the meatballs
In a bowl, combine beef, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, and spices. Mix just until combined—don’t overwork or they’ll get dense. Roll into 1-inch meatballs.
2. cook until golden
Heat a little oil in a large skillet. Brown the meatballs on all sides for 5–7 minutes. (They don’t need to be fully cooked yet.)
3. make that peach-bourbon magic
In the same skillet, whisk together peach preserves, bourbon, soy sauce, vinegar, mustard, brown sugar, garlic, cinnamon, and chili flakes. Bring to a simmer.
4. glaze + simmer
Add the meatballs back in. Coat them well and reduce the heat. Let everything simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
5. serve
Transfer to a serving dish and spoon extra glaze over top. Garnish with chives or parsley if you want to feel fancy.
💡 tips:
• Swap peach for apricot or pineapple preserves—still amazing.
• Want it spicier? Add a dash of hot sauce or extra chili flakes.
• Make ahead: reheat gently in a covered pot or slow cooker.
• No alcohol? Replace bourbon with apple juice + a tiny drop of vanilla.
⏲ prep time: 15 mins
⏲ cook time: 20 mins
🍽 servings: about 24 meatballs
Reviewed by EL KATIBI MARIA
on
December 10, 2025
Rating:
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