Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground pork, or a mixture)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For the Coca-Cola Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups Coca-Cola
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Kitchen Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet or pan (for baking meatballs)
- Saucepan (for Coca-Cola sauce)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Whisk
- Baking dish (optional, if baking meatballs in the sauce)
Directions:
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the milk.
- Add the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and fresh parsley (if using). Mix everything together with your hands or a spatula until the ingredients are well combined, but don’t overwork the meat.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about the size of a golf ball) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 2: Make the Coca-Cola Sauce
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the Coca-Cola sauce.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the Coca-Cola, ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until it has reduced slightly and thickened into a glaze-like consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—if you prefer a tangier sauce, you can add a little more vinegar, or if you want it sweeter, increase the brown sugar.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Once the meatballs are done baking, you have two options:
- Option 1: Transfer the meatballs to a baking dish and pour the Coca-Cola sauce over them, then bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Option 2: Simply toss the baked meatballs in the saucepan with the Coca-Cola glaze, coating them evenly, and serve right away.
- Garnish with extra chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and added freshness.
Tips and Tricks:
- Customize the Meatballs: You can use ground pork, chicken, or turkey instead of beef for a lighter version. You can also add your favorite spices like cumin or chili powder for a spicier kick.
- Baking vs. Frying: If you prefer a crispy exterior on your meatballs, you can pan-fry them in a little oil before baking them in the sauce. This adds a nice golden crust to the meatballs.
- Make It a Meal: Serve the meatballs with rice, mashed potatoes, or over pasta to make a complete meal. They’re also great served with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Storing Leftovers:
Leftover Coca-Cola Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little extra sauce or water to keep them moist, and heat until warmed through.
If you’d like to freeze the meatballs, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.