Cocktail Meatballs I
Sweet and savory cocktail meatballs featuring chili sauce and grape jelly, perfect for parties or as an appetizer, combining tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors in each bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix grape jelly and chili sauce together in a saucepan.
- Combine ground beef, egg, and bread crumbs to form small meatballs.
- Cook the meatballs in the chili-jelly mixture until cooked through, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Serve hot in the sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful meatball, consider adding minced garlic, onion, or herbs like parsley to the ground beef mixture. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oatmeal work as great substitutes. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by varying the amount of grape jelly to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
These cocktail meatballs are perfect as a party appetizer or served over rice for a quick meal. They pair wonderfully with sides like garlic bread or a fresh salad. For a complete dinner, serve alongside dishes like Bodacious Baked Beans or a hearty vegetable casserole to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over medium heat with a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent drying out. You can also microwave them in a covered dish for quicker reheating, checking frequently to ensure they don’t overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocktail Meatballs I contains roughly 835 calories, with 25g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 774mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
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 these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them before cooking. They can also be frozen after cooking; just thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes them a convenient option for gatherings or meal prep.
What can I substitute for grape jelly?
If grape jelly isn’t available, you can use other fruit preserves, such as raspberry or peach, for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, a mix of honey and apple cider vinegar can create a similar sweet-tangy sauce.
How do I know when the meatballs are done cooking?
The meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can also cut one open; it should be no longer pink inside and the juices should run clear. Cooking them in the sauce helps ensure they remain moist.
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).