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Mini Meatball Skewers with Marinara are a delightful appetizer perfect for parties or game day.
These bite-sized meatballs, served on skewers and paired with a rich marinara sauce, are easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
This recipe combines ground meat with herbs and spices, forming small meatballs that are grilled or baked to perfection. The marinara sauce adds a classic Italian touch, making these skewers a flavorful treat.
Overview of Mini Meatball Skewers
Mini Meatball Skewers with Marinara are a delightful choice for any gathering. These bite-sized treats are not only easy to prepare but also offer a burst of flavor that is sure to please a crowd.
Each skewer features juicy meatballs crafted from a blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices. The addition of marinara sauce for dipping brings a classic Italian flair, making these skewers a must-have for parties or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients for Flavorful Meatballs
The key to delicious Mini Meatball Skewers lies in the quality of the ingredients. A combination of ground beef and pork provides a rich flavor and tender texture. Breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese add depth, while fresh parsley and garlic infuse each meatball with vibrant taste.
Don’t forget the spices! Dried oregano, salt, and black pepper enhance the overall flavor profile, ensuring that every bite is satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that impresses without requiring extensive culinary skills.
Preparation Steps
Preparing Mini Meatball Skewers is a straightforward process. Start by mixing the meatball ingredients in a large bowl until just combined. This helps maintain the meatballs’ texture, preventing them from becoming too dense.
Once mixed, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about one inch in diameter. Thread these onto skewers, ensuring there’s a little space between each meatball for even cooking.
Cooking Methods
These meatballs can be cooked in the oven or on the grill, depending on your preference. Baking them at 400°F (200°C) allows for a hands-off approach, while grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the meatballs beautifully.
Regardless of the cooking method, aim for a cooking time of around 15-20 minutes in the oven or 10-12 minutes on the grill, turning occasionally to ensure even browning.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, serve the Mini Meatball Skewers hot, accompanied by a warm bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a fun interactive element to your appetizer spread.
For an appealing presentation, arrange the skewers on a rustic wooden platter, garnished with fresh parsley. This simple touch elevates the dish, making it visually inviting for your guests.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Mini Meatball Skewers with Marinara are versatile enough for various occasions. Whether it’s a casual family gathering, a festive holiday party, or a game day celebration, these skewers are sure to be a hit.
With their combination of flavor, ease of preparation, and appealing presentation, they are an ideal choice for anyone looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Delicious Mini Meatball Skewers Recipe
These Mini Meatball Skewers feature juicy meatballs made from a blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs.
They are served with a warm marinara sauce for dipping, making them a perfect finger food option for gatherings. The recipe takes about 30 minutes and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup marinara sauce for serving
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare a grill for medium heat.
- Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix until just combined.
- Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Skewer the Meatballs: Thread the meatballs onto skewers, leaving a little space between each one.
- Cook the Meatballs: Place the skewers on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through. If grilling, cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Heat the Marinara Sauce: While the meatballs are cooking, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the oven or grill. Serve the Mini Meatball Skewers hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4-6 skewers
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
Brief Background
Mini Meatball Skewers with Marinara are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for parties, potlucks, or game day.
Juicy meatballs are paired with cheese and vegetables on skewers, then served with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
They’re easy to prepare, fun to eat, and offer a flavorful twist on classic meatballs.
Whether you use homemade or store-bought meatballs, this appetizer brings savory comfort to any gathering.
Recipe Tips or Variations
- Use pre-cooked frozen meatballs to save time-just heat and assemble.
- Alternate meatballs with mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, or roasted peppers for added color and flavor.
- Serve with toothpicks or short wooden skewers for easy grabbing.
- Keep warm in a slow cooker on low with marinara poured over or served on the side.
- Brush skewers with garlic butter or olive oil before baking for extra flavor.
- Try turkey, chicken, or plant-based meatballs for dietary preferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the skewers in advance and refrigerate. Reheat in the oven just before serving.
What kind of marinara sauce should I use?
Any good-quality jarred or homemade marinara works. Warm it up before serving for the best dipping experience.
How do I keep the skewers warm at a party?
Place them in a warm oven (around 200°F) or transfer to a slow cooker on the “warm” setting.
Can I grill these instead of baking?
Yes-grill over medium heat until the meatballs are heated through and the veggies are lightly charred.
How long should I bake the skewers?
If using pre-cooked meatballs, bake at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until everything is hot and slightly browned.
With over a decade of experience turning everyday ingredients into reliable, crowd-pleasing meals, Ryan knows firsthand the frustration of wasting time and effort in the kitchen. He specializes in clear, no-fuss guidance—breaking down techniques, time-saving tips, and smart shortcuts so that even complete beginners feel empowered and confident.
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