As a lover of spicy and savory flavors, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for Buffalo Chicken Meatball Sandwiches with Celery Slaw. This dish combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the freshness of celery slaw, all wrapped up in a delicious sandwich. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it, how to make it, and some great serving suggestions.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Serving Size: 4-6 sandwiches
Why You’ll Love It
This recipe is perfect for anyone who enjoys buffalo wings but wants a more convenient and less messy option. The meatballs are easy to make, and the celery slaw adds a refreshing crunch that complements the spicy buffalo sauce beautifully. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a flavorful meal without the hassle of bones.
Ingredients
For the Buffalo Chicken Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Sauce
For the Celery Slaw:
- 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 4-6 hoagie rolls
- Blue cheese dressing (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to combine until just mixed. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little oil.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake for about 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
- Make Buffalo Sauce: In a bowl, mix the remaining buffalo sauce with melted butter (about 2 tbsp). Toss the baked meatballs in this sauce to coat.
- Prepare Celery Slaw: In another bowl, combine sliced celery, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Spread blue cheese dressing on the hoagie rolls if desired. Add 2-3 meatballs, some celery slaw, and drizzle with extra buffalo sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Game Day Snack: Perfect for game day gatherings or parties.
- Weeknight Dinner: Serve with a side salad for a quick and easy meal.
- Picnic: Pack the meatballs and slaw separately and assemble at the picnic site.
Tips for Customization
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to suit your taste.
- Cheese Options: Use different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a unique flavor.
- Slaw Variations: Add diced carrots or apples to the celery slaw for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and bake them just before serving.
Q: How do I keep the meatballs warm for a party?
A: Place the buffalo sauce in a slow cooker and add the cooked meatballs. Set it to the “Keep Warm” setting.
Q: Can I use different types of meat?
A: While chicken is traditional, you can experiment with turkey or beef for a different twist.Enjoy your delicious Buffalo Chicken Meatball Sandwiches with Celery Slaw! Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a quick dinner idea, this recipe is sure to please.