Hors D'Oeuvre Cocktail Meatballs To Freeze
Savory cocktail meatballs with a tangy chili and grape jelly glaze, perfect for appetizers or parties, appealing to those who enjoy flavorful, easy-to-serve bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thoroughly mix ground beef, onion, garlic, crushed cornflakes, and beaten eggs; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Shape the mixture into walnut-sized balls.
- Combine chili sauce, grape jelly, and lemon juice in a heavy skillet or pan.
- Simmer the sauce mixture for 5 minutes.
- Add the meatballs to the sauce and cook slowly for 1 hour.
- Cool the meatballs and refrigerate until fat hardens.
- Skim off and discard the fat from the sauce.
- Pour the meatball and sauce mixture into containers and freeze.
- Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley into the meatball mixture. If you’re low on cornflakes, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute. For a spicier kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce to the chili sauce mixture. These meatballs are versatile and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or as part of a main dish.
Serving Suggestions
These cocktail meatballs make a great appetizer when served with toothpicks. Pair them with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a more complete meal. Consider serving alongside creamy dips or crunchy breadsticks for a delightful spread. They also pair beautifully with Zucchini Beef Bake for a hearty dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Once the meatballs have cooled, they can be stored in airtight containers in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a bit of water or extra chili sauce to prevent drying out. Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hors D'Oeuvre Cocktail Meatballs To Freeze contains roughly 83 calories, with 2g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% 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 use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe. Just be mindful that turkey may yield a slightly drier meatball, so you might want to add a bit more moisture, such as an extra egg or some broth, to the mixture.
How do I know when the meatballs are done cooking?
Meatballs are typically done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can cut one open to check that it's no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! These meatballs can be prepared in advance and stored in the freezer. Simply follow the recipe up to the cooking step, freeze them raw or cooked, and then reheat them when you're ready to serve. This makes them a great option for parties or quick weeknight dinners.
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).