If you're a fan of bite-sized, savory delights that pack a flavor punch, you're in for a treat! Learn how to make the most irresistible Cocktail Meatballs. These little gems are perfect for any gathering, offering a delightful combination of savory meat, tangy sauce, and the perfect hint of sweetness.

Cocktail Meatballs on a black plate with toothpicks inserted

Why You'll Love This Tasty Appetizer

Quick. Ready in under 30 minutes, these Cocktail Meatballs are the ultimate speedy party snack.
Easy. Simply mix, roll, and bake – creating a delicious appetizer has never been easier.
Versatile. Customize the sauce to your liking, from sweet and tangy to spicy and bold.
Addictive. Packed with flavor that will keep your guests coming back for more.

With the simplicity of this recipe, you've got a crowd-pleaser that will elevate your hosting game. Whether it's a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these Cocktail Meatballs are guaranteed to be the star of the show.

What Not To Do When Making Meatballs

Making the perfect meatball can be an art, and while the process is relatively straightforward, there are some common mistakes that can hinder the final result. Here's a guide on what not to do when making meatballs to ensure your next batch is a culinary success.

Overmixing the Meat Mixture. Resist the temptation to overmix the ground meat mixture. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough texture. Mix the ingredients until just combined for a tender result.
Using the Wrong Meat-to-Fat Ratio. While lean meat is a healthier choice, too little fat can result in dry meatballs. On the other hand, too much fat can lead to greasy meatballs. Aim for a balanced meat-to-fat ratio for optimal flavor and texture.
Skipping the Searing Step. Don't skip searing your meatballs before simmering or baking. Searing adds a caramelized crust, enhancing flavor and texture. It also helps the meatballs hold their shape during cooking.
Making Meatballs Too Large. Giant meatballs may look impressive, but they can be challenging to cook evenly. Opt for smaller, bite-sized meatballs for a more consistent result.
Overcrowding the Pan. When searing meatballs, avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and prevent a proper sear. Work in batches to ensure each meatball gets the attention it deserves.

Ingredients You'll Need

Ground Beef- The main protein source for the meatballs. Ground beef provides a rich and savory flavor.
Breadcrumbs- Act as a binding agent, helping to hold the meatball mixture together and providing a desirable texture.
Grated Parmesan Cheese- Adds a depth of flavor and a subtle nuttiness to the meatballs. It also contributes to the binding of the ingredients.
Milk- Adds moisture to the meatball mixture, ensuring the final product is tender and not overly dry.
Onion- Provides a savory and aromatic base flavor for the meatballs.
Garlic- Enhances the overall savory profile of the meatballs, adding a robust and aromatic element.
Egg- Acts as a binder, helping to hold the meatball mixture together during baking.
Salt and Black Pepper- Salt enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, while black pepper adds a hint of spiciness.
Oregano, Basil, and Parsley- These dried herbs contribute to the overall flavor profile, providing a hint of Italian-inspired seasoning.
Olive Oil- Used to prevent the meatballs from sticking to the baking sheet during cooking, ensuring they brown evenly.
Grape Jelly- The main ingredient for the sweet and sticky sauce. Grape jelly adds a delightful sweetness to the meatball glaze.
Ketchup- Adds a tangy and savory element to the sauce, balancing the sweetness of the grape jelly.
Worcestershire Sauce- Contributes a savory and umami flavor to the sauce, enhancing its depth.
Soy Sauce- Adds saltiness and an additional layer of savory flavor to the sauce.
Dijon Mustard- Provides a tangy and slightly spicy kick to the sauce, complementing the sweet elements.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder- These powders enhance the overall flavor of the sauce, adding depth and complexity.

How To Make Cocktail Meatballs

Prepare the Meatballs. In a bowl, combine ground meat, bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into bite-sized meatballs.
Bake to Perfection. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven until browned and cooked through.
Make the Sauce. In a saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, and additional seasonings if desired. Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly.
Coat and Serve. Once the meatballs are cooked, toss them in the sauce until evenly coated. Skewer each meatball with a toothpick for easy serving.
Garnish and Enjoy. Transfer the saucy meatballs to a serving platter, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color, and watch them disappear.

Close up image of Cocktail Meatballs with toothpicks

What To Put In Meatballs So They Don't Fall Apart

Creating meatballs that hold their shape and maintain a moist, tender texture can be achieved with the right ingredients and techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your meatballs stay intact:

Add Moisture with Bread or Breadcrumbs. To prevent dryness, incorporate breadcrumbs or torn bread soaked in milk into the meat mixture. This not only adds moisture but also helps bind the ingredients together.
Eggs as Binders. Eggs act as binders in meatballs. Use beaten eggs in your mixture to help hold the ingredients together. Generally, one or two eggs per pound of meat is a good guideline.
Handle Gently. When shaping meatballs, handle the mixture gently. Overworking the meat can make it tough. Use a light touch when forming the balls, and don't compact them too much.
Chill the Mixture. Refrigerating the meat mixture for 30 minutes to an hour before shaping can make it easier to handle. Chilled meat is firmer and less sticky, allowing you to shape the meatballs more effectively.

Tips And Tricks

Making Cocktail Meatballs is a breeze, but a few tips can take them from good to exceptional:

Prep Ahead. Prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Double the Sauce. If you love saucy meatballs, consider doubling the sauce recipe for an extra flavor kick.
Keep Warm. Serve the meatballs in a slow cooker set to the "warm" setting to keep them hot throughout your gathering.

Variations

Customize your Cocktail Meatballs with these creative variations:

Sweet and Spicy- Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce for a kick.
Asian-Inspired- Swap out the Worcestershire sauce for hoisin and add ginger for an Asian twist.
BBQ Glazed- Use your favorite barbecue sauce for a classic BBQ flavor.

What To Serve With Cocktail Meatballs

Cocktail Meatballs are incredibly versatile and pair well with various sides:

Cheese Platter- A selection of cheeses and crackers complements the savory meatballs.
Vegetable Crudité- Fresh veggies with a dipping sauce add a refreshing element.
Crostini- Toasted bread slices are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

How Long Do They Last?

Cocktail Meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for the best taste and texture.

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes, you can freeze Cocktail Meatballs for up to 2 months. Store in an airtight container, and when ready to serve, reheat in the oven or a slow cooker.

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