Baked Peach Meatballs

In the world of culinary innovation, few combinations captivate the palate quite like the pairing of sweet and savory flavors. The Sweet & Savory Baked Peach Meatballs are a testament to this harmonious blend, bringing together juicy peaches and seasoned meat into a dish that is both comforting and refreshing. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transforms traditional meatballs into a gourmet delight suitable for any occasion.

Discover the unique flavors of Sweet & Savory Baked Peach Meatballs, a dish that blends juicy peaches with seasoned meat for a delightful culinary experience. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, these meatballs deliver a harmonious mix of sweetness and savory depth. Made with lean meats and fresh herbs, they’re a nutritious choice packed with flavor. Elevate your cooking with this creative recipe that's sure to impress at any occasion!

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground beef (or use ground turkey for a lighter alternative)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (consider using panko for an extra crunch)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil leaves

1 large egg, beaten

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

For the Peach Sauce:

2 large, ripe peaches, diced (peeling is optional based on preference)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to facilitate easy cleanup later.

Make the Meatball Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped basil, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Gently mix the ingredients together until just combined, taking care not to overmix, which could make the meatballs tough.

Form the Meatballs:

Scoop out portions of the meatball mixture using your hands or a small ice cream scoop. Roll the mixture into balls approximately 1.5 inches in diameter and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

Prepare the Peach Sauce:

In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the diced peaches, olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, fresh thyme, and a dash of salt and pepper. Gently toss the peaches until they are well coated in the sauce.

Combine and Bake:

Spoon the peach mixture generously over each meatball, ensuring that they are evenly distributed and covered.

Bake the Meatballs:

Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The meatballs should be thoroughly cooked (an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C) and the peaches should be softened and slightly caramelized.

Serve:

Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the meatballs to cool slightly for a few minutes. Serve the warm meatballs drizzled with any remaining peach sauce, garnishing with additional fresh basil if desired. These meatballs pair wonderfully with a side of rice or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings

Presentation Tips: Arrange the meatballs on a serving platter and drizzle with extra peach sauce. Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve with colorful salad greens to enhance the visual appeal.