Cocktail Meatballs: A Sweet and Savory Party Favorite

These Cocktail Meatballs offer a delicious twist on a classic appetizer. The combination of ground beef, a tangy chili sauce, and sweet grape jelly creates a unique and irresistible coating that is sure to wow your guests. Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or even as a fun weeknight treat, these meatballs are easy to prepare and can be kept warm in a slow cooker for serving. The contrast between the sweet and savory flavors is what makes this dish so special!

Quick Benefits

• Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a tasty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Option: These meatballs can be made in advance and kept warm in a slow cooker, making them convenient for serving at parties or gatherings.
• Perfect for Crowd: With a batch yielding 16 meatballs, this recipe is great for small gatherings or potlucks.
• Sweet and Savory Flavor: The unique combination of chili sauce and grape jelly creates a balance of savory, tangy, and sweet that’s addictive.

Essential Ingredients

• Ground Beef (1 pound): The main protein in the meatballs, providing a hearty and flavorful base.
• Dried Bread Crumbs (½ cup): Helps bind the meatball mixture and adds texture.
• Chopped Onion (⅓ cup): Adds sweetness and depth to the meatballs.
• Milk (¼ cup): Adds moisture to the meatball mixture for a tender texture.
• Egg (1): Acts as a binder for the meatballs and adds richness.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors of the meatballs.
• Worcestershire Sauce (½ teaspoon): Adds a savory umami flavor.
• Ground Black Pepper (⅛ teaspoon): Adds a mild, sharp heat to balance the flavors.
• Shortening (¼ cup): Used for frying the meatballs, giving them a crispy, golden exterior.
• Chili Sauce (12 fluid ounces): Provides a tangy, savory base for the sauce.
• Grape Jelly (1 ¼ cups): The sweet ingredient that balances the tangy chili sauce, giving the meatballs a unique flavor.

Preparation Steps

1. Make the Meatballs:
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, dried bread crumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, salt, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Mix well and shape into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
   Heat shortening in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the chili sauce and grape jelly. Heat, stirring occasionally, until the jelly has melted and the sauce is well combined.
4. Coat the Meatballs:
   Return the meatballs to the skillet and stir gently to coat them in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes, allowing the meatballs to soak up the flavors.
5. Serve:
   Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish or slow cooker to keep them warm. Serve immediately or keep them warm for your guests to enjoy.

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: These meatballs provide a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Iron: The ground beef in the meatballs offers a decent amount of iron, which is important for healthy blood circulation.
• Customizable for Your Diet: You can easily substitute leaner meats like ground turkey or chicken for a healthier version of this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect for Parties: These meatballs are an excellent choice for any gathering, from casual cookouts to holiday parties.
• Serve with Toothpicks: Serve these cocktail meatballs with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties.
• Pair with Dipping Sauces: If you like, serve them with a side of dipping sauces like mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy chili sauce to add an extra layer of flavor.
• As an Appetizer: These meatballs can be served on their own as a tasty appetizer, or alongside other finger foods like cheese and crackers, veggies, or chips.

Creative Variations

• Use Different Sauces: Experiment with different types of jelly (like apricot or raspberry) or different hot sauces for a unique flavor.
• Add Spice: If you want to add more heat, increase the amount of Sriracha or add chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce.
• Make It Low-Carb: Swap the bread crumbs for a low-carb alternative, such as ground almonds, and use a sugar-free jelly.
• Substitute the Beef: For a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for the beef.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for Later: These meatballs freeze well! Once they’ve cooled, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
• Keep Warm in a Slow Cooker: After cooking, you can keep these meatballs warm in a slow cooker on low heat, making them perfect for serving at parties or gatherings.

Pro Tips

• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When frying the meatballs, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they brown evenly. Cook them in batches if necessary.
• Taste the Sauce: Before adding the meatballs to the sauce, taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more grape jelly, or add more chili sauce if you like it spicier.
• Make Ahead: These meatballs can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a day before reheating, allowing the flavors to develop even more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the meatballs and sauce ahead of time, and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to heat and serve. They also freeze well for later use.

Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a different flavor profile.

What else can I serve these with?
Cocktail meatballs pair well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad if you’re serving them as a main course.

Can I make these meatballs spicy?
Yes! You can increase the heat by adding more Sriracha, fresh chili peppers, or cayenne pepper to the sauce to give the meatballs a spicy kick.

Cocktail Meatballs are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for parties, cookouts, or casual gatherings. With their sweet and spicy sauce and tender meatballs, they’re sure to be a hit at your next event!

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