Fiery Spicy Meatballs

Ingredients

• Ground beef (1 pound)
• Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup)
• Egg (1, beaten)
• Onion (1 small, finely chopped)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Jalapeno (1, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat))
• Cayenne pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
• Paprika (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
• Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons (for frying))
• Green onions (2, chopped (for garnish))
• Barbecue sauce (1/2 cup)
• Hot sauce (1-2 tablespoons (adjust to taste))

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped jalapeño, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
3. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the sauce by mixing the barbecue sauce and hot sauce in a separate bowl. Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your preferred spice level.
5. Once the meatballs are browned, pour the sauce mixture over them in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let them simmer for 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve the spicy meatballs hot, garnished with chopped green onions for a fresh crunch. Enjoy!