Swedish Cocktail Meatballs
Swedish Cocktail Meatballs are tender, flavorful meatballs glazed in a sweet and tangy chili-jelly sauce. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, they offer a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors that appeal to all ages. An easy, crowd-pleasing dish with Scandinavian flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, and water together in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs.
- Place the meatballs on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 20 minutes.
- While the meatballs are baking, dice the onion.
- Saute the diced onion in oil until lightly browned.
- Add the cooked meatballs, chili sauce, and grape jelly to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the meatball mixture. If you don't have chili sauce, ketchup mixed with a pinch of hot sauce can be a suitable substitute. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Make sure to bake the meatballs until they are browned for a deeper taste.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are perfect as an appetizer or served over egg noodles for a heartier meal. They pair beautifully with Pineapple Appetizers for a sweet and savory combination. Consider serving alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Swedish Cocktail Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist, and cover until heated through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swedish Cocktail Meatballs contains roughly 124 calories, with 3g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them before baking. Just shape them, place on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These Swedish Cocktail Meatballs can be served with a variety of sides, including mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. They also make a great addition to a party platter alongside other appetizers like Joan's Spicy Hot Black-Eyed Peas for a diverse spread.
Can I use a different sauce instead of chili sauce?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute chili sauce with barbecue sauce or a homemade sauce made from ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar. Each option provides a unique twist to the classic meatball 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).