Name: Juicy Lucy Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 15
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 2 tbsp onion; 1 egg yolk; 3 tbsp panko bread crumbs; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 tbsp Lingham’s Hot Sauce; Salt and ground black pepper; 4 oz processed cheese; Green Onions; For Sauce:; ⅓ cup Lingham’s Hot Sauce; ⅔ cup barbecue sauce

The Juicy Lucy Meatballs recipe is a fun twist on a classic. Juicy Lucy is a type of burger that's stuffed with cheese on the inside rather than being topped on the outside. We've taken the same concept and applied it to meatballs, making it a delightfully cheesy, mouth-watering dish.

Photos of Juicy Lucy Meatballs Recipe

You'll mostly need common kitchen ingredients like lean ground beef, onion, egg yolk, bread crumbs, and seasoning. However, there are two ingredients you might need to look for. The first is Lingham’s hot sauce, a tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce that adds a unique flavor to the meatballs. The second is processed cheese. Any processed cheese will do, but it's often sold as cheese blocks or slices.

Ingredients for Juicy Lucy Meatballs

Lean ground beef: The main component of the meatballs. It's important to get lean ground beef to make sure the meatballs aren't too greasy.

Onion: Adds a depth of flavor to the meatballs.

Egg yolk: Acts as a binder to keep the meatballs together.

Panko bread crumbs: Gives texture and helps to bind the meatball mixture.

Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory, umami flavor to the meatballs.

Lingham’s hot sauce: Gives a unique spicy and slightly sweet flavor to the meatballs.

Processed cheese: It melts well, which makes it ideal for stuffing inside the meatballs.

Green onions: Used for garnish and adds a pop of color and flavor.

Barbecue sauce: Used in the sauce that coats the meatballs.

One reader, Gianna Eubanks says:

These juicy lucy meatballs were a game-changer! The combination of the melted cheese inside the meatball was absolutely delicious. The hot sauce added a nice kick, and the barbecue sauce complemented the flavors perfectly. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a good, juicy meatball!

Gianna Eubanks

Essential Techniques for Making Juicy Lucy Meatballs

How to prepare the meatball mixture: Combine the ground beef, onion, egg yolk, panko bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, Lingham’s hot sauce, salt, and pepper until well mixed.

How to form the meatballs: Divide the beef mixture into 15 pieces, flatten each piece, add a piece of cheese in the middle, and wrap the beef around the cheese, sealing it as best as possible.

How to make the sauce: In a saucepan, combine Lingham’s hot sauce and barbecue sauce, bring to a boil over medium heat, and allow to boil for 2 minutes while stirring. Add in the meatballs and toss to coat.

How To Make Juicy Lucy Meatballs

Enjoy these juicy lucy meatballs made with cheese-stuffed ground beef that’s baked, then coated with a sweet and spicy sauce.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lblean ground beef
2tbsponion,minced
1egg yolk
3tbspPanko bread crumbs
1tspWorcestershire sauce
2tbspLingham’s Hot Sauce
salt and ground black pepper,to taste
4ozprocessed cheese,or cheddar cheese, cut into 15 pieces
green onions,for garnish, optional

For Sauce:

⅓cupLingham’s Hot Sauce
⅔cupbarbecue sauce

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray.
Cut cheese into 15 small squares. Set aside.
Combine onion, egg yolk, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, Lingham’s Hot Sauce, and salt and pepper. Mix until well combined. Add in ground beef and mix just until combined.
Divide beef mixture into 15 pieces. Flatten one piece, add a piece of cheese in the middle and wrap the beef around the cheese sealing it as best you can.
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes.
Combine sauce ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Allow to boil for 2 minutes while stirring. Add in meatballs and toss to coat. Serve warm!

Nutrition

Calories: 136.93kcal
Fat: 8.98g
Saturated Fat: 3.85g
Trans Fat: 0.45g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.43g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.33g
Carbohydrates: 6.28g
Fiber: 0.23g
Sugar: 4.46g
Protein: 7.40g
Cholesterol: 38.92mg
Sodium: 386.71mg
Calcium: 65.33mg
Potassium: 135.21mg
Iron: 0.79mg
Vitamin A: 26.53µg
Vitamin C: 5.38mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Making Juicy Lucy Meatballs

When forming the meatballs, ensure that the cheese is completely enclosed within the ground beef. This will prevent the cheese from leaking out during the baking process. Also, try not to overwork the meat mixture as it can result in tough meatballs. For a more uniform cook, make sure all meatballs are approximately the same size.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Use a scoop: Use a cookie scoop to portion out the meat mixture for even-sized meatballs, saving time and ensuring uniform cooking.

Double batch: Consider making a double batch and freezing half for a quick and easy meal another day.

Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather all the ingredients and tools needed for the recipe to streamline the cooking process.

Bake instead of fry: Baking the meatballs instead of frying them saves time and effort while still achieving delicious results.

Substitute Ingredients For Juicy Lucy Meatballs Recipe

lean ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a lean and healthy alternative to ground beef, and it can be used as a direct substitute in most recipes. It has a similar texture and can absorb flavors well.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, making them a great substitute in recipes where a more delicate onion flavor is desired.
egg yolk - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Flaxseed meal can be used as a binding agent in place of egg yolk, especially for those following a vegan or egg-free diet.
panko bread crumbs - Substitute with regular bread crumbs: Regular bread crumbs can be used as a substitute for panko bread crumbs, although they may not provide the same level of crunch.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce and a dash of hot sauce: A combination of soy sauce and hot sauce can mimic the umami and tangy flavor of Worcestershire sauce.
lingham’s hot sauce - Substitute with Tabasco sauce: Tabasco sauce can be used as a substitute for Lingham's hot sauce, providing a similar level of heat and flavor.
processed cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese can be used as a substitute for processed cheese, providing a richer and more natural cheese flavor.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for green onions, adding a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the dish.
lingham’s hot sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha can be used as a substitute for Lingham's hot sauce, providing a similar level of heat and flavor.
lingham’s hot sauce - Substitute with Frank's RedHot sauce: Frank's RedHot sauce can be used as a substitute for Lingham's hot sauce, offering a similar level of heat and tanginess.
barbecue sauce - Substitute with hoisin sauce: Hoisin sauce can be used as a substitute for barbecue sauce, providing a sweet and savory flavor with a hint of spice.

Best Way to Present Juicy Lucy Meatballs

Elevate the meatballs: Arrange the meatballs on a sleek, modern serving platter, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped chives and parsley over the meatballs to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Place the meatballs on a bed of crispy lettuce leaves to create a textural contrast and enhance the visual appeal of the dish.
Create a sauce swirl: Drizzle the spicy barbecue sauce in an artistic swirl pattern around the meatballs, adding a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Use elegant serving utensils: Present the meatballs with polished stainless steel tongs or a sleek serving spoon to elevate the dining experience for the judges.

Essential Tools for Making Juicy Lucy Meatballs

Cutting board: A flat, sturdy surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, multipurpose knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining ingredients and mixing them thoroughly.
Baking sheet: A flat, metal pan used for baking and roasting foods in the oven.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle used for making sauces, boiling liquids, and simmering.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
Cooking spray: Used for greasing pans and preventing food from sticking during cooking.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting and turning food.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
Foil: Aluminum foil is used for lining pans, covering dishes, and wrapping food for storage.

Storing and Freezing Juicy Lucy Meatballs

Let the meatballs cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled meatballs in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the meatballs:
- Arrange the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they aren't touching each other.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the meatballs are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen meatballs will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat frozen meatballs, you can either:
- Place them in a covered dish and reheat in the microwave until heated through, stirring the sauce and rotating the meatballs occasionally for even heating.
- Or, put them in a saucepan with a little extra sauce or water, cover, and reheat over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
If you have leftover sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How To Reheat Leftover Juicy Lucy Meatballs

To reheat leftover juicy lucy meatballs, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For an extra burst of flavor, brush the meatballs with some reserved sauce before reheating.
Another option is to reheat the meatballs in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or beef broth to the pan to create steam and prevent the meatballs from sticking. Cover the skillet and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are warmed through. This method helps to maintain the meatballs' moisture and tenderness.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place the meatballs in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to check the meatballs every 30 seconds to avoid overheating, which can cause the cheese filling to explode.
If you have leftover sauce, reheat it separately in a saucepan over low heat until simmering. Add the meatballs to the sauce and stir gently to coat. This method not only reheats the meatballs but also infuses them with extra flavor from the sauce.
For a crispy exterior, reheat the meatballs in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the meatballs in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of texture contrast in their reheated meatballs.

Interesting Fact About Juicy Lucy Meatballs

The Juicy Lucy meatballs recipe is a fun twist on the classic cheese-stuffed burger. The original Juicy Lucy, a cheese-stuffed burger, is said to have originated in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The meatballs version offers a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy the same concept in a bite-sized form. This recipe is a great option for parties or gatherings, as it provides a delicious and surprising burst of cheese when you bite into the meatball. It's a creative and tasty way to enjoy a classic dish in a new format.

Is Making Juicy Lucy Meatballs at Home Cost-Effective?

This juicy lucy meatballs recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Ground beef is a budget-friendly protein, and the addition of simple ingredients like onion, bread crumbs, and sauces keeps the overall cost low. The use of processed cheese may slightly increase the cost, but it's still reasonable. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. Considering the affordability and the delicious outcome, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The juicy lucy meatballs recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The use of processed cheese, which is high in sodium and additives
The combination of Lingham's hot sauce and barbecue sauce, both of which likely contain added sugars and preservatives
The recipe relies on ground beef as the primary protein source, which can be high in saturated fat

However, there are some redeeming qualities, such as the use of lean ground beef and the inclusion of onions, which provide some nutrients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Swap the processed cheese for a lower-sodium, natural cheese like mozzarella or cheddar
Use a homemade or low-sugar barbecue sauce to reduce the overall sugar content
Incorporate more vegetables into the meatballs, such as finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini, to boost the nutrient profile
Experiment with using a leaner protein, such as ground turkey or chicken, in place of some or all of the ground beef
Serve the meatballs with a side salad or roasted vegetables to create a more balanced meal

Editor's Opinion on Juicy Lucy Meatballs

The Juicy Lucy Meatballs recipe is a delightful twist on the classic cheese-stuffed burger. The combination of lean ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, and Lingham's hot sauce creates a flavorful base, while the melted processed cheese adds a gooey surprise. The addition of a tangy and spicy sauce elevates the dish, making it a perfect balance of flavors. The recipe is easy to follow and yields juicy, flavorful meatballs that are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Enhance Your Juicy Lucy Meatballs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with melted butter.

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and drizzled with a balsamic glaze.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits tossed in a light honey-lime dressing, topped with fresh mint leaves.

Similar Recipes to Juicy Lucy Meatballs

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a delicious and colorful dish by stuffing bell peppers with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, rice, and seasonings.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: Whip up a sweet and savory glaze to coat tender salmon fillets for a mouthwatering and healthy seafood dish.

Apple Cinnamon Crisp: Bake a warm and comforting dessert with juicy apples, a hint of cinnamon, and a crunchy oat topping for the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Juicy Lucy Meatballs

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with these classic bruschetta bites. Toasted baguette slices topped with a flavorful mixture of tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze. A refreshing and light start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and a crunchy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.

Why trust this Juicy Lucy Meatballs Recipe:

This recipe guarantees succulent meatballs filled with oozy cheese that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of Worcestershire sauce and Lingham's hot sauce adds a depth of flavor, while the barbecue sauce and lingham's hot sauce create a tantalizing glaze. The use of lean ground beef ensures a healthier option without compromising on taste. Trust the rave reviews from our community and savor the explosion of flavors in every bite.

Want to share your own twist on this Juicy Lucy Meatballs recipe or discuss tips and tricks? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of cheese you prefer. Cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack would all work well in this recipe.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time and reheat them later?

Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and reheat them. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.

Can I substitute the hot sauce with something milder?

Of course! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the hot sauce with a mild or medium salsa, or even omit it altogether for a less spicy version.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. The meatballs will still turn out delicious!

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the meatballs for later. Once they are cooked, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat as desired.