Save
These Firecracker Meatballs are my answer to weeknights when I want something with serious flavor and just the right amount of heat. The dreamy creamy sauce and tender juicy beef are addictive and just as good piled over rice as they are straight from the tray. Every time I make these my family practically hovers by the oven waiting for the timer to ding.
I still remember the first time I brought out a platter of these at a potluck and watched them disappear in minutes. Even anyone who says they do not love spicy food ends up reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: brings rich flavor and keeps these meatballs juicy Always choose beef with a little fat for best results
- Bread crumbs: help the meatballs hold together and create a tender texture Fresh or panko both work
- Milk: softens the mix so every bite is moist and tender Whole milk adds extra richness
- Garlic minced: packs savory punch and layers in deep flavor Choose fresh for best taste
- Scallions white bulb ends: add oniony brightness while the green ends look great on top Crisp and fresh is key
- Salt: pulls all the flavors together and seasons the meat
- Red pepper flakes: bring the fire You can add more or less depending on your heat preference
- Vegetable oil: helps the meatballs brown in the oven and keeps them juicy Pick a neutral oil
- Sour cream: tames the heat in the sauce and adds tanginess Always use full fat for silkiness
- Mayonnaise: gives the sauce body and richness
- Buffalo hot sauce: delivers that iconic spicy kick Go for your favorite brand
- Rice vinegar: brightens everything up with a gentle acidity
- Soy sauce: adds a salty savory backbone that is essential to the sauce
- Honey: balances heat with a touch of sweetness Choose good local honey if you can
- Chopped scallions green ends: make a fresh garnish and give color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Meatballs:
- Combine ground beef bread crumbs milk minced garlic scallion whites salt and red pepper flakes in a large mixing bowl Work the mixture gently with your hands until just evenly combined so the mixture stays tender not tough
- Shape and Arrange:
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and gently roll into balls placing each one on a parchment-lined baking sheet Give each ball a little space so they brown well on all sides
- Oil and Bake:
- Lightly brush each meatball with vegetable oil which helps them turn golden and juicy Slide the tray into a preheated oven at four hundred twenty five degrees and bake for fifteen minutes Meatballs should be firm brown on the outside and register at least one hundred sixty degrees inside for food safety
- Make the Firecracker Sauce:
- As the meatballs cook whisk together sour cream mayonnaise buffalo hot sauce rice vinegar soy sauce and honey in a bowl The sauce should look smooth and creamy with a slight sheen Taste and adjust to your liking
- Sauce and Garnish:
- Arrange cooked meatballs on a serving plate or scoop them over rice Drizzle generously with firecracker sauce and scatter a handful of sliced scallion greens over the top
Save
I have a soft spot for the sauce in this recipe The blend of hot sauce with cooling sour cream is just magic and was inspired by a buffalo chicken dip at a cousin’s birthday party Everyone stayed at the appetizer table that day because of that dip and these meatballs are my way of bringing that memory into every weeknight dinner
Storage Tips
Leftover Firecracker Meatballs keep well in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge If you want to freeze them store just the meatballs without sauce for up to two months They reheat beautifully either in the oven or microwave and I like to make extra for weekday lunches
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option If you are out of sour cream plain Greek yogurt makes an excellent stand in Gluten free breadcrumbs work perfectly if you are avoiding wheat
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are fantastic served over steamed rice or even cauliflower rice You can tuck them inside lettuce wraps for a low carb take or pile them into a sub roll with shredded lettuce for a spicy sandwich I sometimes serve them alongside roasted veggies for a colorful plate
Save
Cultural Context
Firecracker sauce takes a cue from American buffalo chicken wings but with a creamy Asian-inspired twist The mix of tangy hot sauce savory soy and sweet honey gives the meatballs a unique flavor profile that is always a hit at gatherings
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do you keep meatballs tender and juicy?
Mixing breadcrumbs and milk into the ground beef locks in moisture, while baking ensures even cooking.
- → Can I make Firecracker meatballs less spicy?
Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and hot sauce in the sauce for a milder flavor profile.
- → What is the best way to serve them?
Enjoy as a main over steamed rice or offer as appetizers on a platter with extra sauce for dipping.
- → Are these gluten free?
Use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep the dish entirely gluten free.
- → What garnishes work well?
Fresh green scallions are classic, but you can also add cilantro or toasted sesame seeds for extra appeal.
- → Can these be prepared in advance?
Yes, shape and bake the meatballs ahead, then reheat and drizzle with sauce just before serving.