Cocktail Meatballs(Do Ahead)
Sweet and tangy cocktail meatballs with a flavorful glaze perfect for entertaining or casual gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy hearty appetizers with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, bread crumbs, minced onion, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce together.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Melt shortening in a large skillet and brown the meatballs.
- Remove meatballs from the skillet and pour off excess fat.
- Heat chili sauce and grape jelly in the skillet, stirring constantly until the jelly is melted.
- Add the meatballs to the sauce and stir until thoroughly coated.
- Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For flavor variations, consider adding minced garlic or using ground turkey instead of beef. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the grape jelly amount. Ensure the meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking. You can also bake the meatballs at 400°F for 20 minutes instead of browning them in shortening. This recipe works well for meal prep and can be doubled.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cocktail meatballs as an appetizer at parties or as a main dish with mashed potatoes or rice. They pair wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. For a fun twist, serve them in slider buns for a hearty snack. They also complement dishes like Spinach Meat Loaf or Elizabeth'S Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. They can also be reheated in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes on high.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocktail Meatballs(Do Ahead) contains roughly 913 calories, with 13g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2535mg per serving (110% 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 freeze the meatballs after cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm them in a skillet or microwave.
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
To make gluten-free meatballs, substitute the dry bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that the chili sauce and grape jelly are also labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
What can I serve with cocktail meatballs?
Cocktail meatballs are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing them with a light salad, rice, or mashed potatoes. For a party, serve with toothpicks and a dipping sauce, or try them alongside Frank'S Chili for a hearty meal.
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).