Published 11/5/2019 • Updated 11/5/2024 Meatballs are the ultimate holiday or party appetizer (especially here in the midwest!). We’ve tested countless meatball appetizer recipes and we can confidently say these are the best beef meatballs we’ve ever tried (though our Italian meatballs are a close second). Made with fresh rosemary and thyme and a balsamic vinegar reduction, each meatball is incredibly savory and a little sweet. Ready in under 30 minutes on the stovetop, this is a must-make meatball appetizer this season!
What is in this meatball recipe?
These rosemary thyme balsamic meatballs come together with just 10 basic ingredients. Nothing fancy required for this very holiday-worthy recipe! You’ll need:
Beef: For the best ever meatballs, beef is best. The higher fat content yields super tender, juicy, and flavorful meatballs. Egg + Breadcrumbs: Help the meatballs stay intact while they cook. Fresh Thyme + Rosemary: Add wonderful fresh flavor. Garlic Powder + Salt: Add even more flavor. Balsamic Vinegar: A welcome sweetness to these savory meatballs. As the meatballs cook, the vinegar turns into a thick reduction – possibly the best part of the entire recipe!
Meatball Appetizer Variations
Use this meatball appetizer recipe as a starting point and put your own twist on it! Feel free to try: Ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. If not using beef, add 1-2 tablespoons of extra fat (olive oil, coconut oil, ghee, etc) to ensure tender meatballs. You could also use half beef and half ground turkey/chicken. Rolled oats, gluten free breadcrumbs, ground flax seed, or hemp hearts in place of the regular bread crumbs. Baking them in the oven instead of pan frying on the stovetop. Prepare the meatball mixture as instructed. Spray a foil-lined baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray and place the meatballs on that. Bake at 400ºF for 25 minutes. About halfway through cooking, drizzle the meatballs with balsamic vinegar or brush a little onto each one. Or, serve non-glazed baked meatballs with a side of reduced balsamic vinegar.
Storage
These meatballs taste great as leftovers! Once completely cool, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Meatball Recipes
Italian Meatballs Kung Pao Chicken Meatballs Red Coconut Curry Meatballs Turkey Meatballs Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Freezing Instructions
Because this meatball appetizer isn’t overly saucy, they freeze great as-is. Let the meatballs cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, let thaw in the refrigerator, then reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with additional balsamic vinegar until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
Not only is this versatile meatball appetizer great for parties, we love to make a batch of them to enjoy for lunch and dinner throughout the week. They’re a flavorful, protein-packed addition to alongside roasted veggies, or your favorite pasta. I’ve even served these with marinara sauce for more classic, Italian take.
