Cocktail Meatballs And Sauce
Sweet and savory cocktail meatballs coated in a flavorful sauce of grape jelly and chili sauce, perfect for parties or casual gatherings, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground chuck, bread crumbs, chopped onions, chopped garlic, beaten egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper well.
- Roll mixture into 1/2-ounce meatballs.
- Bake at 350°F for 8 minutes.
- In a saucepan, combine grape jelly and chili sauce.
- Heat until jelly is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Add cooked meatballs to the sauce.
- Stir to coat and simmer for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like parsley to the meatball mixture. If you're out of Worcestershire sauce, a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can work as a substitute. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Serve with toothpicks for easy eating at parties.
Serving Suggestions
These cocktail meatballs are perfect as an appetizer or main dish. Serve them with toothpicks at your next gathering, or alongside mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with Puree Of Onion And Potato Soup for a comforting dinner. Consider offering a side salad to balance the richness of the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals or warm on the stovetop until heated through. You can also freeze the meatballs separately from the sauce for up to 2 months for longer storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocktail Meatballs And Sauce contains roughly 41 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance. After rolling them into balls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile and can be served with various sides. For a simple pairing, try garlic bread or a fresh green salad. You can also serve them over rice or pasta for a more filling meal, or with a side of Old Time Molasses Cookies for dessert.
Can I use a different type of sauce?
Absolutely! While the grape jelly and chili sauce combo is classic, you can experiment with other sauces. Barbecue sauce or sweet-and-sour sauce can also create delicious flavors. Just ensure the sauce complements the meatballs for the best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).