Introduction
Cocktail meatballs are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that everyone enjoys. They are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even just a snack while watching TV. These bite-sized meatballs are packed with flavor and are sure to be a hit with your guests. If you’re looking for more tasty options for your party, check out our French Onion Chicken Meatballs for another delicious twist!
Why Make This Recipe
Making cocktail meatballs is a great choice for several reasons. First, they are simple to prepare, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal time in the kitchen. Second, they are versatile and can be served at many occasions, from holiday celebrations to casual get-togethers. Finally, the combination of cranberry sauce and chili sauce adds a unique sweetness and tang that keeps everyone coming back for more.
How to Make Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 0.5 cup bread crumbs
- 3 tablespoons minced onion
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 large egg
- 1 (8 ounce) can jellied cranberry sauce
- 0.75 cup chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons lemon juice
Directions
- Gather the ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Mix ground beef, bread crumbs, onion, water, and egg together in a large bowl. Form into small meatballs and arrange on a nonstick baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, turning once.
- Stir cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice together in a large saucepan over low heat until smooth. Add meatballs; simmer for 1 hour before serving.
How to Serve Cocktail Meatballs
Serve cocktail meatballs hot or warm on a platter. You can garnish with fresh herbs or serve them with toothpicks for easy eating. These meatballs also go well with a dipping sauce, like ranch or barbecue, if you want to add more flavor.
How to Store Cocktail Meatballs
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until warmed through. You can also freeze them; just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container. They will last for about 3 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Cocktail Meatballs
- For extra flavor, add some garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture.
- Make sure to mix the meatball ingredients gently to keep them tender.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, try adding some hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Variation
You can create different flavors by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also experiment with various sauces, like BBQ sauce or sweet and sour sauce, to change the taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I make cocktail meatballs ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance. Simply refrigerate the cooked meatballs and heat them up before serving.
Q: What can I serve with cocktail meatballs?
A: They pair well with various appetizers, chips, and fresh vegetables. You can also serve them over rice or pasta for a full meal.
Q: Can I bake the cocktail meatballs instead of simmering them in sauce?
A: Yes, you can cook them completely in the oven. You can toss them in the sauce after baking if you prefer to skip the simmering step.