Savory Cocktail Meatballs

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 50 Cuisine: American

Savory cocktail meatballs feature tender beef combined with flavorful green peppers and onions, simmered in a tangy tomato-based sauce—perfect for entertaining or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 2 Tbsp. bread crumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/3 c. finely chopped green pepper
  • 1/3 c. finely chopped onions
  • 2 Tbsp. butter or margarine
  • 1 can tomato soup
  • 2 Tbsp. brown sugar
  • 4 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 Tbsp. mustard
  • 1 Tbsp. vinegar

Instructions

  1. Mix ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, and salt until well combined.
  2. Shape into 50 meatballs. Place them in a shallow baking pan and broil until brown, turning once. Spoon off excess fat.
  3. In a saucepan, cook chopped green pepper and onions in butter until tender.
  4. Stir in tomato soup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and vinegar.
  5. Pour the sauce over the cooked meatballs.
  6. Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian herbs to the meat mixture. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs instead. For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. These meatballs can also be made with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

These savory cocktail meatballs make a great appetizer or party dish. Serve them alongside toothpicks for easy eating, or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. Pair with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. They also complement well with the flavors of Easy Beef Cubes With Gravy.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil, warming them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quick reheating option.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Savory Cocktail Meatballs contains roughly 122 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 9g fat.

122 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.9g 2% DV
Total Fat 9g 11% DV
Carbs 9.7g 4% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 1.3g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 168.6mg 7% DV
Potassium 66.6mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 47.8mg 16% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 9mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.6mg 1% DV
Calcium 25.1mg 2% DV
Iron 0.3mg 2% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 a different type of meat for the meatballs?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the ground beef. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat used, so ensure the meatballs are fully cooked through before serving.

How can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

You can prepare the meatballs and form them a day in advance. Store them uncooked in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Alternatively, you can bake them and then store them in the fridge, reheating them in the sauce when ready to serve.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with crusty bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables. They also make a great filling for sandwiches, similar to Beef Stroganoff Sandwiches, for a delicious twist.

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).

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