Cocktail Party Meatballs
Savory cocktail meatballs with a sweet and tangy chili and grape jelly sauce, perfect for parties and gatherings, appealing to a wide range of guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, grated potato, egg, and grated onion in a large bowl and mix well.
- Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs.
- In a large saucepan, blend chili sauce, grape jelly, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs to the saucepan.
- Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Transfer the meatballs to a chafing dish or fondue pot.
- Skim excess fat from the sauce and pour the sauce over the meatballs.
- Serve the meatballs warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the meatball mixture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-made meatballs or ground turkey as a leaner substitute. To ensure even cooking, make uniform-sized meatballs. For a spicy twist, try adding red pepper flakes to the sauce, reminiscent of flavors found in Easy Meatballs.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are perfect for serving at gatherings and pair well with toothpicks for easy eating. Consider serving them alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They also make a great appetizer to accompany a cocktail party, complementing a variety of drinks. For a cozy dinner, serve with mashed potatoes or rice, similar to what you’d enjoy with Harvest Stew.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the meatballs to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocktail Party Meatballs contains roughly 569 calories, with 10g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 730mg per serving (32% 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. Form them and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze uncooked meatballs and cook them directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
What can I use instead of chili sauce?
If you don't have chili sauce, you can substitute it with ketchup mixed with a bit of hot sauce for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, a homemade sauce using tomato sauce, brown sugar, and spices can work well. This gives you flexibility while maintaining the dish's essence.
Are there any vegetarian options for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat substitutes, such as lentils, chickpeas, or store-bought meatless meatballs. Ensure to adjust the seasoning and cooking time accordingly. This way, you can cater to vegetarian guests while still serving a delicious dish.
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).