These Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs are a tasty mix of ground beef, sweet cranberry sauce, and zesty spices. They’re perfect as a finger food at parties or for a cozy night in!
Can we talk about how these little meatballs bring everyone together? I always end up making extra because they disappear so fast! They’re simple to make and full of flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using a mix of beef and pork for added flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner options, turkey or chicken can work too, though the flavor will be milder.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are great, but panko can give your meatballs a nice texture. If gluten-free, swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats instead.
Cranberry Sauce: This is the star ingredient! If you’re out, try homemade cranberry sauce or even a sweet chili sauce for a different twist. The flavor will shift but still be tasty.
Chili Sauce: If you don’t have chili sauce, ketchup works in a pinch, though it will be sweeter. Adding a dash of hot sauce can add an interesting kick if you like heat!
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Are Tender?
Keeping your meatballs tender is all about mixing and cooking them right. Here are some key tips:
- Mix everything gently. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Just combine until the ingredients are blended.
- Shape them gently—don’t compress the meat too much. Lightly rolling them helps keep them fluffy.
- Baking is great, but a quick sear in a hot pan before baking can add flavor and keep them moist.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer; they’ll be perfect when they reach 165°F (74°C).
With these insights, your Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs will be a hit! Enjoy serving them at your next gathering!
How to Make Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Meatball Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley
For The Sauce:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1/4 cup chili sauce or ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Toothpicks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes for cooking, making a total of about 30 minutes. These delightful meatballs will be ready in no time, perfect for snacking at any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and parsley. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your meatballs tender!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each meatball for even cooking.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are cooked through and have a lovely golden brown color. If you want, you can pan-fry them in a skillet over medium heat for a minute or two before baking to add extra flavor.
5. Prepare the Glaze:
While the meatballs are baking, grab a separate saucepan. Add the cranberry sauce, chili sauce (or ketchup), Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard if you’re using it. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed and well combined.
6. Combine Meatballs with Sauce:
Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully add them to the saucepan with the warm glaze. Gently stir to coat each meatball with the delicious cranberry mixture. Let them heat together for 3-5 minutes for the flavors to merge beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving bowl. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Stick in toothpicks for easy serving. Your Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs are ready to impress!
8. Enjoy the Moment:
Serve these warm as appetizers or snacks at your next gathering. They’re always a hit and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean option. Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier than beef, so you might want to add a splash more milk or a bit of olive oil to keep the meatballs moist.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance. Just shape them and place them on the baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for fresh and warm meatballs!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of sauce if they seem dry. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months!
Can I Use Different Sauces with These Meatballs?
Definitely! While the cranberry sauce gives a unique flavor, feel free to switch it up with barbecue sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or even a spicy sauce to suit your taste. The meatballs will still be delicious!
