Glazed Cocktail Meatballs the Ultimate Party Bites

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever been stuck for a party snack? Cocktail Meatballs are the PERFECT solution! These Sweet and Savory Meatballs offer an irresistible glaze. Trust me, they're a guaranteed hit.

Brief Overview

These Glazed Meatballs are a classic American appetizer. They’re super easy to make and take just over an hour. This Party Meatballs Recipe yields about 40-50 meatballs.

Main Benefits

These meatballs pack a protein punch. Serve them at your next game day or Christmas do . What makes these Appetizer Meatballs special? It’s the flavor explosion.

Craving the Ultimate Party Appetizer?

These aren’t just your bog-standard Cocktail Meatballs . We are talking next level scran . They offer a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy glaze. It elevates them from basic to boujee.

Easy Peasy Prep Getting Started

This recipe is surprisingly easy. Honestly, it's a doddle! It's about 20 mins prep, and 30 mins chill time. Pop them in the oven for around 30 minutes and Bob's your uncle .

Grape Jelly Magic The Secret Weapon

The secret ingredient is grape jelly. Don't knock it 'til you try it! It creates the most gorgeous glaze. For a less sweet twist, sub in cranberry sauce for a Holiday Appetizer Recipe .

Ready to dive in?

So, are you ready to become the MVP of appetizers? Let's make these Easy Cocktail Meatballs . They'll be gone before you know it.

Grab your ingredients, and let's get started! Don't forget the toothpicks.

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!

So, you wanna make Easy Cocktail Meatballs , huh? Good choice! Cocktail Meatballs are the PERFECT crowd pleaser. They're always a hit, especially as Crockpot Appetizers !

Main Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor

Here's the lowdown on what you'll need.

• Ground beef: 1.5 lbs (680g). 80/20 blend is the way to go. Not too lean, not too fatty.
• Panko breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (50g). Panko adds a lovely texture.
• Yellow onion: 1/4 cup (30g), finely chopped.
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced.
• Large egg: 1 , lightly beaten.
• Worcestershire sauce: 2 tablespoons . It adds umami .
• Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon .
• Dried Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon .
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon .
• Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon .
• Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons , for browning.
• Ketchup: 1 cup (240ml).
• Grape Jelly : 1/2 cup (120ml). Grape Jelly Meatballs are classic.
• Apple cider vinegar: 1/4 cup (60ml).
• Brown sugar: 2 tablespoons , packed.
• Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon .
• Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon .
• Cayenne pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (optional).

Seasoning Notes: Adding That Je ne sais quoi

Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and soy sauce, a surprisingly great combo. If you like more spice, add some cayenne or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Feel free to skip the soy sauce, but I tell ya, it really kicks it up a notch! For gluten-free folks, swap it out for tamari.

Equipment Needed: Nothing Fancy

• Large mixing bowl.
• Measuring cups and spoons. Essential.
• Baking sheet.
• Large skillet or Dutch oven. Big enough to hold all the Appetizer Meatballs .
• Whisk.
• Small saucepan.

Honestly, you probably have all this stuff already.

Cocktail Meatballs are the PERFECT Holiday Appetizer Recipe , Party Meatballs Recipe or even a cheeky mid-week treat. They are Glazed Meatballs which are also Sweet and Savory Meatballs .

You get to make it! Grab your gear, and let's make some magic!

Cooking Method: Glazed Cocktail Meatballs

Honestly, who doesn't love Cocktail Meatballs ? They are the ultimate party food, especially for casual gatherings. This recipe will show you how to make glazed meatballs that are sure to be a hit.

Think of them as sophisticated Party Meatballs Recipe . Cocktail Meatballs are the PERFECT dish for any occasion.

Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row

First, the mise en place is crucial. Get your ground beef, panko, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire, Dijon, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper ready.

Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic. Grab your ketchup, jelly, vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, paprika, and cayenne too.

Organise all ingredients before starting. That way, you won't be caught short. Top tip: Chill the meatballs for 30 minutes.

This helps them hold their shape.

step-by-step: Meatball Magic

1. Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire, Dijon, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
2. Roll into 1 inch meatballs. Place on a baking sheet.
3. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes .
4. Brown the meatballs in vegetable oil over medium high heat. Do it in batches.
5. Make the glaze. Combine ketchup, grape jelly, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using) in a saucepan.
6. Simmer the glaze over medium heat until smooth, about 5- 7 minutes .
7. Add the browned meatballs to the glaze. Simmer covered on low heat for 20- 25 minutes . Stir occasionally until the internal temperature reaches 165° F .

Pro Tips: Nailing It Like Delia

Don't overmix the meatball mixture! Overmixing makes them tough. If you are looking for Crockpot Appetizers , these Sweet and Savory Meatballs work great.

Just add all ingredients and cook on low for 3- 4 hours. One common mistake is using too much breadcrumb.

Honestly, less is more. If you are looking for a Holiday Appetizer Recipe these are it. They can be made a day ahead.

Just reheat before serving with your favorite Meatball Appetizer Sauce . The Easy Cocktail Meatballs is a total winner. Everyone loves Appetizer Meatballs , and so will you.

Recipe Notes: Nailing Those Party Meatballs Recipe

So, you're ready to tackle these Easy Cocktail Meatballs ? Ace! Before you dive in, let's chew the fat about a few things.

Honestly, knowing these little tips can make all the difference between "meh" and "Oh my gosh, these Cocktail Meatballs are the PERFECT Holiday Appetizer Recipe !"

Serving them Up Like a Pro

Plating and Presentation Ideas: Nobody wants a sad-looking bowl of Glazed Meatballs . Right? Give them a bit of pizzazz. Think about skewering a few onto cocktail sticks.

A sprinkle of fresh parsley does wonders. Or, arrange them around a cute little bowl of extra Meatball Appetizer Sauce for dipping.

Complementary Sides or Beverages: These Sweet and Savory Meatballs are screaming out for some pals. A simple green salad cuts through the richness nicely.

A crisp beer or a glass of red wine wouldn’t go amiss either. You know, something to cleanse the palate.

Storage: Making them Last

Refrigeration Guidelines: Got leftovers? Lucky you! Pop them in an airtight container and they’ll be good in the fridge for 3-4 days . Just give them a good reheat before serving.

Freezing Options (if applicable): Absolutely! These Appetizer Meatballs are freezer friendly. Once they're cooled, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze solid.

Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. They'll keep for up to 2 months .

Reheating Instructions: Reheat from frozen in a skillet with a splash of water, or in the oven at 175° C until heated through.

You could also use the microwave if you’re in a rush.

Variations on a Theme

Dietary Adaptations: Need a gluten-free version? Easy peasy. Just swap out the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. Want a leaner option? Use ground turkey instead of beef.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: Feeling festive? Swap the Grape Jelly Meatballs for cranberry sauce for a seasonal twist. In the summer, a bit of fresh, chopped chilli pepper in the glaze adds a lovely kick.

Nutrition: The Good Stuff

Simplified Nutrition Information: Okay, let's keep it real. These aren't health food. But they are delicious. Each serving has about 350 calories. They're a good source of protein and some carbs.

Key Health Benefits: The protein helps keep you full. Hey, at least they're home-made, so you know what's in them!

Right then, you're armed with all the knowledge you need. So, get in the kitchen and get cooking! You've totally got this.

I can't wait to hear how your Crockpot Appetizers turn out.