Apricot Whiskey Sticky Glazed Meatballs

Apricot Whiskey Sticky Glazed Meatballs are the kind of crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears fast. Juicy, tender meatballs are wrapped in a glossy glaze that balances sweet apricot preserves with the warm bite of whiskey and a savory depth from soy sauce. Every bite is sticky, rich, and deeply satisfying.

This recipe is perfect for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings when you want something bold and memorable. The glaze thickens beautifully on the stove, clinging to the meatballs and creating that irresistible lacquered finish.

Baking the meatballs keeps them juicy while freeing you up to focus on the sauce. Once tossed together, a quick simmer allows the flavors to marry, making the meatballs taste even better with each passing minute.

Serve them with toothpicks for easy entertaining, or spoon them over rice for a simple yet indulgent meal. Either way, these meatballs bring big flavor with minimal effort.

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Servings: 20–24 meatballs
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef or beef and pork mixture
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup onion, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Apricot Whiskey Glaze

  • ¾ cup apricot preserves
  • ¼ cup whiskey or bourbon
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

For Garnish (Optional)

  • Chopped parsley or chives
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions:

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