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Baked Balsamic Vinaigrette Meatballs are a delicious and innovative take on traditional meatballs, merging the comforting flavors of seasoned ground meat with the rich, tangy sweetness of balsamic vinaigrette. This dish not only serves as a hearty dinner option but also shines as an impressive appetizer for gatherings and parties. With the versatility to cater to various dietary preferences, you can easily opt for either ground beef or turkey, making it a suitable choice for many different palates. The preparation is straightforward, and the result is a flavorful dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Baked Balsamic Vinaigrette Meatballs

Discover the delicious twist on a classic with Baked Balsamic Vinaigrette Meatballs! These flavorful meatballs are made from seasoned ground beef or turkey, combined with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette that enhances their taste. Perfect for a hearty dinner or an impressive appetizer, this dish is easy to prepare and customizable to suit various dietary preferences. Enjoy the rich flavors and versatility of this culinary delight at your next meal or gathering.
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Balsamic Vinaigrette Sauce:

1/2 cup balsamic vinegar

1/4 cup olive oil

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 clove garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

    Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but be careful not to overwork the mixture.

      Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.

        Bake Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for turkey.

          Prepare the Balsamic Vinaigrette Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.

            Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Once the meatballs are fully cooked, carefully transfer them to a large skillet or saucepan. Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the meatballs and gently toss to coat them evenly in the sauce.

              Simmer the Meatballs: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the balsamic vinaigrette for about 5-10 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

                Serve: Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish and garnish with fresh basil if desired. These meatballs can be served over spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or simply with a side of roasted vegetables.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                    15 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings