Name: Firecracker Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 3 green onion whites, minced (save the green parts for serving); 1 tablespoon minced ginger; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 6 tablespoons mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons sour cream; 2/3 cup sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha; Prepared rice; Sliced green onions (green parts saved from meatballs); Toasted sesame seeds

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If you love a little heat paired with tender, juicy meat, the Firecracker Meatballs Recipe is going to be your new favorite go-to dish. These flavorful meatballs are coated in a vibrant, spicy sauce that brings just the right amount of kick without overpowering the rich beef inside. Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between quick preparation and incredible taste, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner that feels special without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a bed of white rice as the base layer. On top, there are several brown meatballs coated in a shiny, dark brown sauce sprinkled with white sesame seeds and small pieces of green onion. A pair of brown chopsticks, held by a woman's hand, lifts one meatball close to the camera, showing its glossy texture and sauce with tiny bits of red chili. In the blurred background, there are two small bowls, one with a creamy light beige sauce and the other with green garnish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Fresh, simple ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering dish with layers of flavor and satisfying textures. Each component plays a vital role in building the bold, balanced profile of the Firecracker Meatballs Recipe.

1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that keeps the meatballs juicy and tender.
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Adds lightness and helps hold the meatballs together without making them dense.
3 green onion whites minced: Brings a mild onion flavor for a little zing inside the meatballs.
1 tablespoon minced ginger: Infuses a subtle warmth and freshness that pairs perfectly with the spice.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a savory depth and umami richness that enhances the beef.
1 tablespoon sriracha: The perfect spicy kick to amp up the flavor inside the meatballs.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Elevates the taste with a classic garlicky note.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a smoky aroma that complements the fiery sauce.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
6 tablespoons mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base for the luscious firecracker sauce.
2 tablespoons sour cream: Adds tanginess and smooth texture to the sauce.
2/3 cup sweet chili sauce: Balances heat with sweetness, making the sauce irresistibly tasty.
1 tablespoon sriracha: Turns up the heat in the sauce for that signature firecracker effect.
Prepared rice: A simple, neutral side to soak up the spicy sauce.
Sliced green onions: Freshness and vibrant color for garnish.
Toasted sesame seeds: Adds a nutty crunch that rounds out the dish beautifully.

How to Make Firecracker Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by preheating your oven to 425ºF and lining a baking sheet with foil, giving it a spritz of nonstick cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko, minced green onion whites, ginger, soy sauce, sriracha, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. I recommend mixing gently with clean hands to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the meatballs tough. This step ensures every bite bursts with flavor and stays wonderfully tender.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Meatballs

Use about 1 1/2 tablespoons of mixture per meatball—if you have a spring-loaded scoop, it’s a great tool here! Lightly wet your hands and roll each portion into evenly sized balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the oven and bake until nicely browned and cooked through, usually around 15 to 18 minutes. Keep an eye on them and turn if needed to ensure an even golden crust.

Step 3: Whip Up the Firecracker Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, mix the mayonnaise, sour cream, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a bowl until smooth and creamy. This vibrant sauce is the heart of the Firecracker Meatballs Recipe—its creamy texture combined with sweet and spicy notes makes every bite unforgettable.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Once the meatballs come out of the oven, let them rest for a couple of minutes. Then transfer them to a large bowl and toss gently with half of the firecracker sauce—just enough to coat them while keeping that saucy flair intact. Serve over fluffy rice, top with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds, and provide the remaining sauce on the side for that extra punch whenever you want it.

How to Serve Firecracker Meatballs Recipe

A white plate with a base layer of fluffy white rice spread evenly. On top, there are five small round meatballs coated with a shiny dark brown sauce that has red chili flakes in it. The meatballs are sprinkled with white sesame seeds and chopped green onions, adding texture and color. Two wooden chopsticks are placed diagonally on the edge of the plate. Above the plate, there are two small white bowls, one filled with sesame seeds and the other with chopped green onions. The whole setting is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sliced green onion greens bring a crisp, fresh note and vibrant pop of color that beautifully balances the spicy sauce. Toasted sesame seeds add a lovely nutty crunch, enhancing the texture and flavor profile. These simple garnishes make the dish visually appealing and elevate each bite.

Side Dishes

While the meatballs steal the show, serving them over a bed of plain steamed rice is classic and essential—it soaks up the luscious firecracker sauce perfectly. For something different, you could try cauliflower rice or even a simple stir-fried vegetable medley that complements the bold flavors without competing.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or make this your signature party dish, serve the Firecracker Meatballs Recipe on skewers or toothpicks for easy finger food. Alternatively, place individual meatballs in small lettuce cups topped with the sauce and garnishes for a fun, bite-sized appetizer that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Firecracker Meatballs keep beautifully refrigerated for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container with the sauce separated if possible to maintain the best texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, just warm them gently for a quick meal that feels just as fresh as when first made.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked meatballs before tossing in the sauce—simply arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months, giving you a fantastic option for easy meals anytime you crave bold flavors.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen meatballs overnight in the fridge or reheat refrigerated leftovers gently in the microwave or a low oven until warmed through. Add a little fresh sauce or extra sriracha if needed, so they remain deliciously saucy and fiery.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs with ground chicken or turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey works well in this Firecracker Meatballs Recipe. Just be mindful they can be leaner, so consider adding a little olive oil or an extra egg to keep the meatballs moist and tender.

How spicy are the firecracker meatballs?

The heat level is moderate, thanks to the sriracha in both the meatballs and sauce balanced with sweet chili sauce and creamy mayo. You can easily adjust the spice by using more or less sriracha to suit your taste buds.

Can I prepare the meatballs completely ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix and form the meatballs a day before and keep them refrigerated, then bake and sauce when you’re ready. This saves time and makes dinner a breeze on busy nights.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

For a vegetarian take, try substituting the ground beef with firm tofu crumbles or plant-based meat alternatives. The sauce remains a great complement, delivering all the signature firecracker flavor.

What drinks pair well with Firecracker Meatballs?

A cold lager, crisp white wine like Riesling, or a refreshing iced tea are great drinks to balance the spicy, creamy flavors of the meatballs without overwhelming your palate.

Final Thoughts

This Firecracker Meatballs Recipe is pure comfort food with a seriously exciting twist. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, it’s a dish that delivers warmth, spice, and satisfaction in every bite. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how a few simple ingredients can create such a memorable meal you’ll want to make again and again.