When the craving for comfort food hits, nothing satisfies quite like a deliciously hearty Meatball Breadstick Skewers. Picture this: juicy, flavorful meatballs wrapped in warm, fluffy breadsticks, all freshly baked to golden perfection. I discovered this delightful recipe during a weekend cooking session when I was looking for a fun way to elevate my usual dinner routine. The combination of ground beef and pork mixed with herbs and spices creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s impossible to resist.
Perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, these skewers transform any meal into a festive occasion. They smell heavenly as they bake, drawing everyone into the kitchen, each person tackling a skewer with joy. Plus, the ease of preparing these skewers means you can impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether dipped in marinara sauce or enjoyed on their own, you’ll find that this dish is destined to become a household favorite. Let’s dive into this simple yet amazing recipe!
Why will you love Meatball Breadstick Skewers?
Deliciously Unique: Combining meatballs and breadsticks into one delightful dish makes for a fun twist that’s sure to impress loved ones.
Easy to Prepare: Even beginners can master this recipe, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of ground beef, pork, and aromatic herbs creates meatballs bursting with flavor, while melty mozzarella ties it all together.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love skewering their own creations, making mealtime a fun interactive experience.
Versatile Occasions: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a party appetizer, these skewers fit seamlessly into any occasion.
Time-Saving: Bake them in under 30 minutes for a speedy yet satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on taste!
Meatball Breadstick Skewers Ingredients
For the Meatballs
• Italian-seasoned bread crumbs – adds flavor and acts as a binder for the meatballs.
• Milk – helps to keep the meatballs moist and tender.
• Olive oil – provides richness and flavor when sautéing the onions.
• White onion – finely diced for sweetness and depth in flavor.
• Ground beef – delivers a hearty base for the meatballs.
• Ground pork – adds juicy flavor, making the meatballs extra delicious.
• Large egg – acts as a binding agent for the meatball mixture.
• Fresh Italian parsley – brings a burst of color and freshness.
• Garlic – minced for an aromatic and savory kick.
• Salt – enhances the overall flavors of the meatball.
• Black pepper – adds a subtle heat that balances the dish.
• Dried oregano – infuses an herby taste that’s classic in Italian dishes.
• Red pepper flakes – provides a hint of spicy warmth to every bite.
• Parmesan cheese – melted into the meatballs for extra richness.
For the Breadsticks
• Crescent roll dough – provides a flaky, soft exterior perfect for wrapping around meatballs.
For Assembly
• Wooden skewers – essential for creating fun-to-eat Meatball Breadstick Skewers.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – melted on top for gooey, cheesy goodness.
For Dipping
• Marinara sauce – serves as a classic accompaniment to enhance the flavors of your skewers.
Let the adventure of flavors unfold with these delightful Meatball Breadstick Skewers!
How to Make Meatball Breadstick Skewers
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Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set it aside while you prepare the meatballs.
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Soak the bread crumbs in milk. In a medium bowl, combine the Italian-seasoned bread crumbs and milk, allowing them to soak for 5 minutes. This step ensures a moist meatball texture.
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Sauté the onions. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the finely diced onions and cook for 6-7 minutes, or until they are soft and fragrant.
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Combine all ingredients. Transfer the sautéed onions and soaked bread crumbs into a large mixing bowl. Add the ground beef, ground pork, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese. Mix gently until everything is just combined.
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Shape the meatballs. Form the mixture into 12 golf ball-sized meatballs, placing them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet for even cooking.
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Bake the meatballs. Bake in the oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the meatballs are no longer pink in the center. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!
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Lower the oven temperature to 375°F. This will be the temperature for baking the skewers.
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Prepare the breadstick dough. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 pieces. Roll each piece into a 12-inch log; then pinch ends of two pieces together and twist them to create a lovely braid.
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Assemble the skewers. Insert a wooden skewer through the end of one piece of dough. Add 1 meatball to the skewer, then weave the dough back and forth, adding 2 more meatballs along the way. Place the completed skewer back on the prepared baking sheet.
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Repeat this process. Continue until you’ve created all 4 skewers, making sure to leave about 1 inch of space between each on the baking sheet.
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Bake the skewers. Place them in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes. Remove them afterward and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve with marinara sauce. Once finished, present your skewers with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with extra parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Meatball Breadstick Skewers
Fridge: Store leftover Meatball Breadstick Skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain flavor and texture.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to restore their crispy exterior.
Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, allow skewers to sit at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure safety and quality.
Meatball Breadstick Skewers Variations
Get creative with your Meatball Breadstick Skewers and make them your own with these delightful variations!
- Chicken Option: Substitute the beef and pork with ground chicken for a lighter twist that still packs flavor.
- Veggie Lovers: Mix in finely chopped spinach or bell peppers to your meatball mixture for added nutrients and color.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the meatball mixture for an extra kick that spice lovers will adore.
- Cheesy Delight: Incorporate cubes of mozzarella directly into the meatball mixture for a gooey surprise with each bite.
- Whole Wheat: Swap the crescent roll dough for whole wheat dough for a healthier yet equally delicious option that adds a nutty flavor.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or thyme to switch up the flavor profile of your meatballs.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs and a gluten-free dough to create a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
- Store-Bought Flair: For a time-saver, use pre-made meatballs and simply wrap them with the breadstick dough for a quick and satisfying meal.
Embrace the joy of cooking with these variations, and each time you make these skewers, they’ll feel like a brand-new experience!
Tips for the Best Meatball Breadstick Skewers
Perfect Meatballs: Ensure your meatballs are uniformly sized to promote even cooking. Use a scoop for consistent results!
Don’t Rush the Soak: Allow the bread crumbs to soak fully in milk. This step is crucial for creating a moist and tender meatball texture.
Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on the skewers during the final baking stage to prevent the cheese from burning. Melty mozzarella is the goal!
Space Them Out: Make sure to leave enough space between the skewers on the baking sheet. This promotes even heat circulation and perfect cooking!
Customize Dipping Sauce: Feel free to switch up the marinara with your favorite sauce, like garlic aioli or a spicy arrabbiata, for extra flair!
Make Ahead Options
These Meatball Breadstick Skewers are perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can make the meatballs up to 3 days in advance; simply follow the steps to cook them, allow them to cool, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The breadstick dough can also be prepared ahead of time—roll and braid it, then cover it in plastic wrap and store it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the skewers with the prepped meatballs and dough, bake at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, sprinkle with mozzarella, and enjoy delectable, hassle-free skewers just as delicious as if they were made fresh!
What to Serve with Meatball Breadstick Skewers?
Create a delightful dining experience with these fun, flavorful skewers that promise a satisfying combination of tastes and textures.
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Garlic Bread: Adds a crunchy, seasoned delight that perfectly complements the marinara sauce. The buttery, garlic-infused aroma will have everyone eager to dig in!
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Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with crunch and creaminess balances the hearty skewers, adding a touch of green that brightens up the meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, roasted until tender, provide a sweet and savory contrast. Their caramelized edges add depth to your dinner plate.
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Italian Pasta Salad: A cold, tangy salad with olives, tomatoes, and herbs offers vibrant flavors that marry beautifully with the warm skewers, amplifying the Italian theme.
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Fresh Fruit Platter: Sweet and juicy fruits cleanse the palate after the savory skewers, making for a great refreshment between bites! Consider adding berries for a pop of color.
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Sparkling Lemonade: This fizzy and refreshing drink enhances the flavors of the skewers while providing a lovely fizz that makes mealtime feel special.
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Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft, buttery, and cheesy, these irresistible biscuits are a great way to scoop up marinara sauce while adding a delightful, indulgent element to your meal.
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Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian treat offers a sweet, coffee-flavored finish to your dinner, leaving your guests with a smile.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: Light and fluffy with a touch of herbs, this side dish rounds out the meal with a subtle nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the main.
Meatball Breadstick Skewers Recipe FAQs
What type of bread crumbs should I use for the meatballs?
Absolutely! I recommend using Italian-seasoned bread crumbs for that extra flavor kick. If you don’t have those, plain bread crumbs can work—just add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the mix!
How should I store leftover Meatball Breadstick Skewers?
For optimal taste and texture, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re well-sealed to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze these skewers?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Why are my meatballs falling apart?
This can happen if the mixture is too dry or not mixed enough. Ensure that your bread crumbs have soaked adequately in milk before combining. You might also consider adding a little more egg or milk to help bind the mixture better.
Are these skewers suitable for kids or those with allergies?
Yes! They’re generally kid-friendly. However, be cautious of any allergies—substitute any ingredients as needed (like using gluten-free bread crumbs or omitting cheese for dairy sensitivities). Always double-check with your guest list to avoid any unpleasant surprises!
How long can the skewers sit at room temperature when served?
If you’re serving these at a party or gathering, the skewers can safely sit at room temperature for about 2 hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate any leftovers to maintain quality and safety.
Savor Meatball Breadstick Skewers for a Fun Family Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set it aside while you prepare the meatballs.
- Soak the bread crumbs in milk. In a medium bowl, combine the Italian-seasoned bread crumbs and milk, allowing them to soak for 5 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the finely diced onions and cook for 6-7 minutes.
- Transfer the sautéed onions and soaked bread crumbs into a large mixing bowl. Add the ground beef, ground pork, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese. Mix gently until everything is just combined.
- Form the mixture into 12 golf ball-sized meatballs, placing them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the meatballs are no longer pink in the center.
- Lower the oven temperature to 375°F.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 pieces. Roll each piece into a 12-inch log.
- Insert a wooden skewer through the end of one piece of dough. Add 1 meatball to the skewer, then weave the dough back and forth, adding 2 more meatballs along the way. Place the completed skewer back on the prepared baking sheet.
- Continue until you’ve created all 4 skewers, making sure to leave about 1 inch of space between each.
- Place them in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes. Remove them and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Bake for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Once finished, present your skewers with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy!