Spiced Apple Cider Glazed Meatballs

Halloween tables often lean on fall orchard flavors without going full dessert. These meatballs fold grated apple and cinnamon into a beef-and-pork mix, then finish under a glossy spiced apple cider glaze.

Serves 6 · 20 min prep · 30 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 340 cal
• 24g protein
• 18g carbs
• 19g fat
• 3g fiber

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup finely grated apple
• 1/4 cup minced yellow onion
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups apple cider
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives

Instructions

1. 1Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a lightly oiled rack.
2. 2In a large bowl gently mix the ground beef, ground pork, egg, panko, grated apple, minced onion, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until just combined; avoid overworking so the meatballs stay tender.
3. 3Scoop and roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls (about 24 total) and arrange them evenly on the prepared sheet.
4. 4Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, turning once halfway, until the meatballs are browned and cooked through to 165°F internally.
5. 5While the meatballs bake, pour the apple cider, vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon into a medium saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. 6In a small bowl whisk the cornstarch with a splash of cold water to make a smooth slurry; stream it into the simmering cider while whisking constantly.
7. 7Cook the glaze 4 to 6 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon and turns glossy and fragrant with warm spice notes.
8. 8Transfer the hot baked meatballs into a large skillet or serving pan and pour the cider glaze over them; toss gently over low heat for 2 minutes so every meatball is lacquered.
9. 9Taste the glaze and add a pinch more salt if needed; keep warm on the lowest setting until ready to serve.
10. 10Scatter chopped chives over the top for a fresh finish; these reheat beautifully in a slow cooker on warm for parties, making them ideal for casual Halloween spreads.