Lori's Meatballs

 Ingredients:

Meatballs:

• 2 pounds ground chicken (or turkey) - I'm using beef and sausage 
• 4 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

Firecracker Sauce:

• ½ cup hot sauce
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼-½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on spice preference)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Preheat and Prepare:
• Preheat the oven to 475ºF and position 2 racks in the center.
• Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Create the Firecracker Sauce:
• Combine firecracker sauce ingredients in a saucepan over medium-high heat.
• Bring to a boil, then simmer for 8-10 minutes.
• Allow the sauce to cool; it will thicken as it cools.
3. Mix Meatball Ingredients:
• In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, salt, pepper, eggs, Panko breadcrumbs, paprika, and onion powder.
• Mix thoroughly with your hands; avoid overmixing.
4. Shape and Bake:
• Shape the mixture into balls (about 3 tablespoons each) and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
• Bake for 11-13 minutes or until fully cooked.
5. Dip in Firecracker Sauce:
• Using 2 tablespoons, dip each meatball into the firecracker sauce or brush each meatball with the sauce.
• Return to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve with a Bang:
• Drizzle or brush with additional sauce as desired before serving.