Cocktail Wieners And Meatballs
A savory crowd-pleaser featuring cocktail sausages and homemade meatballs simmered in a tangy ketchup and apple jelly sauce, perfect for parties and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat catsup and apple jelly in a saucepan over low heat until the jelly melts.
- Form the hamburger into very small balls and brown them in a skillet.
- Pour the sauce, cooked meatballs, and cocktail sausages into a crock-pot.
- Cook on high for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally if desired.
- Reheat as needed before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped onions or garlic while browning the meatballs. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute half of the hamburger with ground turkey or chicken. You can also use barbecue sauce instead of catsup for a different taste. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of apple jelly to suit your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cocktail wieners and meatballs as a hearty appetizer at parties or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with a side of Beautiful Broccoli Salad for a refreshing contrast. Provide toothpicks for easy serving and dipping sauces like mustard or ranch for added flavor. Enjoy alongside crusty bread or chips for a complete snack experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mixture in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring in between to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocktail Wieners And Meatballs contains roughly 280 calories, with 9g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1275mg per serving (55% 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 cocktail wieners and meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance. Cook them and then refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply reheat in a crock-pot or on the stovetop until hot. This makes it convenient for gatherings or meal prep.
What can I substitute for apple jelly?
If you don't have apple jelly on hand, you can substitute it with grape jelly or even apricot preserves for a different flavor profile. Both will work well with the catsup and provide a sweet and tangy sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating a splash of hot sauce or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the sauce while it cooks. You can also use spicy sausage instead of regular cocktail wieners for an extra kick.
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).