Cocktail meatballs are small, tasty bites perfect for parties! Made with ground meat, breadcrumbs, and spices, they’re cooked in a zesty sauce that makes them even yummier.
These little meatballs are super fun to eat—who doesn’t love a good party snack? I like to serve them with toothpicks for easy munching while chatting with friends!
They’re quick to prepare and always a hit with guests. I often make a double batch because they disappear fast—trust me on that one!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A great option for meatballs, but feel free to use a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken work well too!
Breadcrumbs: These add texture. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can be good alternatives. Just make sure they’re finely ground to keep the meatballs tender.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a nice depth of flavor. If you’re out, try Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh is best for flavor! If you’re in a pinch, you can use onion powder and garlic powder instead. But fresh really brings out the best taste.
Barbecue Sauce: The base of the sauce. You can use homemade or store-bought. Honey mustard or sweet chili sauce could work if you’re looking for something different.
How Do You Shape Perfectly Uniform Meatballs?
Shaping meatballs can be tricky, but here’s an easy way to ensure they’re all about the same size.
- Start with a small ice cream scoop or a tablespoon. This helps deliver consistent portions for even cooking.
- Moistening your hands with water or oil can prevent sticking, making it easier to roll the meat into balls.
- Keep them approximately 1 inch in diameter for a good bite-size and even cooking.
Remember, the more gentle you are when mixing and shaping, the tenderer your meatballs will be. Avoid packing them too tightly!
How to Make Delicious Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup grape jelly or cranberry jelly
- 1 tbsp ketchup (optional, for added tang)
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, for a slight kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, plus some time to simmer the meatballs in the sauce. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to delicious finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Get your oven ready by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, parsley, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined—don’t overmix, or your meatballs might turn out tough!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Now, it’s time to shape the meat mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes. They should be cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the meatballs bake, grab a medium saucepan. Combine the barbecue sauce, jelly, ketchup, and hot sauce. Heat it over low heat, stirring occasionally until the jelly melts and the sauce becomes smooth and warm.
6. Combine Meatballs with Sauce:
Once the meatballs are finished baking, carefully transfer them to the saucepan with the sauce. Gently stir to coat each meatball well. Let them simmer together on low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing all the wonderful flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Serve the Meatballs:
Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the coated meatballs onto a serving platter. You can sprinkle a bit of extra chopped parsley on top for a lovely touch!
8. Enjoy!
Stick cocktail picks or toothpicks into the meatballs for easy serving. These are best enjoyed warm and make for a fantastic appetizer or party snack!
Yields about 25-30 cocktail meatballs—enough to share at your next gathering or enjoy all by yourself!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and pork for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that leaner meats might require a little extra moisture, so you may want to add an extra splash of milk or a bit more breadcrumbs.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover cocktail meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also freeze well! Just place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and even bake them in advance. Just store them in the fridge and heat them in the sauce just before serving for the best flavor. They can also be assembled and stored uncooked in the fridge for a few hours before baking.
What Sauces Can I Use Instead of Barbecue Sauce?
If you want to switch things up, try using sweet chili sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a homemade marinara sauce. Each will give your meatballs a unique twist that’s equally delicious! Adjust the sweetness with jelly or sugar as needed for balance.