Peanut Butter Meatballs Recipe

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Dishes

Discover the unique flavor of these Peanut Butter Meatballs that combine savory and sweet in a delightful dish perfect for any occasion.

Ella

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-05T05:25:52.199Z

This Peanut Butter Meatballs recipe is a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, combining the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter with savory ingredients. Perfect as a main dish or an appetizer, these meatballs are sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Unique blend of savory and sweet flavors
  • Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
  • Great for meal prep or entertaining guests

A Fusion of Flavors

Peanut Butter Meatballs offer a remarkable culinary experience that beautifully marries savory and sweet elements. The rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter pairs harmoniously with the savory notes of ground beef, creating a dish that surprises and delights the palate. This unique fusion sets these meatballs apart from traditional meatball recipes, making them a standout choice for any meal.

The addition of soy sauce and garlic enhances the umami flavors, ensuring that every bite is bursting with taste. This unexpected combination not only tantalizes your taste buds but also invites curiosity from guests, making it an excellent conversation starter at dinner parties or family gatherings.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, Peanut Butter Meatballs are incredibly versatile. They can be served as appetizers, main dishes, or even as part of a buffet spread. Their unique flavor profile and appealing presentation make them suitable for various occasions—from game day snacks to elegant dinner parties.

Moreover, these meatballs are an ideal option for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer, allowing for quick and convenient meals throughout the week. Simply reheat and enjoy a delicious homemade dish without the fuss.

Kid-Friendly and Nutrient-Rich

One of the greatest advantages of Peanut Butter Meatballs is their kid-friendly appeal. Children are often drawn to the sweet and nutty flavor of peanut butter, making this dish a great way to introduce them to new tastes while providing a satisfying meal. The incorporation of ground beef also adds essential protein, making it a nutritious option for growing kids.

By preparing these meatballs at home, you can control the ingredients and ensure that they are made with wholesome, high-quality products. This not only enhances the flavor but also provides peace of mind knowing that your family is eating a balanced and nourishing meal.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

  • 1/2 cup peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Mix all ingredients thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, peanut butter, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Meatballs

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.

Prepare the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan over low heat until smooth.

Serve

Drizzle the peanut sauce over the meatballs before serving. Enjoy!

Serve these meatballs over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

To ensure your Peanut Butter Meatballs turn out perfectly, be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture. Mixing just until combined helps maintain a tender texture. Additionally, feel free to experiment with the size of the meatballs; smaller ones work great as bite-sized appetizers, while larger ones make for a hearty main course.

If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes to the sauce or mixing some into the meatball mixture. Adjusting the spice level to your preference can elevate the dish and cater to your guests' tastes.

Serving Suggestions

These Peanut Butter Meatballs can be served in a variety of ways. For a casual meal, serve them over steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. Alternatively, you can serve them on skewers for a fun presentation at parties, allowing guests to easily grab and enjoy.

For a fresh twist, pair the meatballs with a crunchy Asian-style slaw or a side of sautéed vegetables. These sides not only add color to your plate but also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the meatballs.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. This makes it easy to enjoy a quick meal later on.

When reheating, ensure the meatballs are warmed through, either in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water to keep them moist. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they stay delicious and juicy.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze the meatballs before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad.

Peanut Butter Meatballs Recipe

Discover the unique flavor of these Peanut Butter Meatballs that combine savory and sweet in a delightful dish perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Ella

Recipe Type: Classic Comfort Dishes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Meatballs

  1. 1 lb ground beef
  2. 1/2 cup peanut butter
  3. 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  4. 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 1 egg
  7. 1 tsp soy sauce
  8. 1/2 tsp salt
  9. 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

  1. 1/2 cup peanut butter
  2. 1/4 cup soy sauce
  3. 2 tbsp honey
  4. 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  5. 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, peanut butter, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 03

Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 04

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.

Step 05

While the meatballs are baking, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan over low heat until smooth.

Step 06

Drizzle the peanut sauce over the meatballs before serving. Enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g