Great Cocktail Meatballs

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect appetizer to wow your guests, look no further than these Great Cocktail Meatballs. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a crowd-pleasing dish that’s savory, sweet, and irresistibly delicious. This recipe is a lifesaver for last-minute gatherings or when you want to serve something that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cocktail Meatballs are incredibly easy to make, requiring only three main ingredients if you use frozen meatballs. The combination of grape jelly and chili sauce creates a unique flavor profile that’s both sweet and tangy, making it a hit at any gathering. Plus, they’re conveniently served on toothpicks, making them a mess-free finger food that’s perfect for parties.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Slow cooker or large saucepan
• Oven

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 3 tablespoons minced onion
• 1 (8 ounce) can jellied cranberry sauce
• 3/4 cup chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, egg, water, bread crumbs, and minced onion. Roll the mixture into small meatballs.
3. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, turning once during cooking.
4. While the meatballs are baking, blend the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice in a slow cooker or large saucepan over low heat.
5. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer for 1 hour before serving.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your meatballs are evenly sized to ensure even cooking.
• If you prefer homemade meatballs, you can prepare them ahead of time and freeze for later use.

Variations and Additional Tips

For a slightly different flavor, substitute grape jelly for the cranberry sauce. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. If you’re short on time, using pre-made frozen meatballs is a great shortcut.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

These meatballs are a good source of protein and provide a balance of sweetness and spice, though they are best enjoyed in moderation due to their sugar content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use turkey instead of beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still taste delicious.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I make these in advance? Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day ahead and reheat in the slow cooker before serving.

Conclusion

These Great Cocktail Meatballs are a must-try for your next gathering. Easy to prepare and always a hit, they’re sure to impress your guests. Give them a try and let us know how they turn out in the comments below. We’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative variations you come up with!