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#### **Instructions**:
**Step 1: Make the Meatballs**
1. **Preheat your oven** to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. **Mix the ingredients**: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken or turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the milk to the mixture, then use your hands or a spoon to combine everything. Mix until everything is fully incorporated, but don’t overwork the mixture.
3. **Form the meatballs**: Once the mixture is well combined, form it into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. **Add cheese**: Use your finger or a small spoon to make a small indentation in the center of each meatball. Fill this indent with a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. **Bake the meatballs**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. You can check for doneness by
**Step 2: Make the Caramelized Onion Gravy**
1. **Sauté the onions**: While the meatballs are baking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally and cook for about 25-30 minutes, allowing the onions to caramelize slowly. They should become golden brown and sweet.
2. **Deglaze the pan**: Once the onions are fully caramelized, add the balsamic vinegar and cook for another minute. Then, pour in the broth, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Finish the gravy**: Once the gravy is the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and set aside.
**Step 3: Assemble and Serve**
1. **Serve the meatballs**: Once the meatballs are finished baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm, either on a platter or individually with toothpicks.
2. **Add the gravy**: Spoon the caramelized onion gravy over the meatballs or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
3. **Garnish**: Optionally, sprinkle the meatballs with some extra grated Parmesan or fresh parsley for added flair.
### **Why These Meatballs are So Irresistible**
While these meatballs might look simple, the combination of flavors and textures is what makes them so special. Here’s why they are an absolute crowd-pleaser:
1. **Tender, Flavorful Meat**: The combination of chicken or turkey, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese creates a moist and flavorful meatball. Adding milk to the mixture ensures the meatballs don’t dry out during baking.
2. **Melted Cheese Inside**: A gooey, melted mozzarella center provides an irresistible cheese pull that adds both flavor and texture to the meatballs.
3. **Caramelized Onion Gravy**: The slow-cooked onions bring out a deep sweetness, and the balsamic vinegar gives the gravy a tangy kick that complements the savory meatballs perfectly.
4. **Easy to Serve**: These meatballs are bite-sized and perfect for serving at parties. Whether you skewer them with toothpicks or serve them on a platter, they’re easy to grab and go.
5. **Versatile**: You can adjust the seasoning to your taste, add more cheese or herbs, or even swap out the protein. Plus, the gravy is optional, so you can serve these with marinara sauce or another dipping sauce if you prefer.
### **Serving Suggestions and Variations**
While these meatballs are perfect on their own, here are some ideas for serving them at your next event:
1. **With Pasta**: Serve the meatballs over a bed of spaghetti or penne for a more substantial dish. Top with a bit of marinara sauce and extra Parmesan for an Italian-inspired meal.
2. **Sliders**: Place the meatballs in mini buns for easy-to-eat sliders. Add a slice of melted cheese and a bit of the caramelized onion gravy on top.
3. **With Veggies**: For a healthier option, serve the meatballs with roasted vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli, on the side. This balances the richness of the meatballs with something fresh.
4. **Add More Spice**: For a bit more heat, add more red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or serve with a spicy dipping sauce on the side.
5. **Vegetarian Option**: You can swap out the ground meat for a vegetarian alternative, like lentils, mushrooms, or chickpeas, and still get that delicious texture and flavor.
### **Conclusion: Why These Appetizers Are a Must-Try**
Now you know why I wish I had made more of these meatballs at my party. They were a smash hit, and there’s no reason they shouldn’t be the star of your next gathering, too. From the tender meatball with gooey cheese to the savory caramelized onion gravy, these little bites pack a serious punch in terms of flavor and texture.
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a more formal event, these appetizers will have your guests raving. Easy to make, customizable, and incredibly tasty, they’re the perfect dish for any occasion. Just be sure to make enough, because they’ll vanish faster than you can say “more, please!”
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