These Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs are a fun party treat! Made with ground beef, they are sweet and tangy with a hint of cranberry sauce.
They are so easy to make that you can even cook them while pretending to dance in the kitchen! 🎶 I love serving them with toothpicks for everyone to grab and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of your meatballs! You can use lean ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a healthier option, but the flavor will change a bit.
Breadcrumbs: Regular or panko breadcrumbs work well. If you’re gluten-free, consider almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers as a substitute.
Cranberry Sauce: Whole berry cranberry sauce adds a nice texture. If you want something different, try using barbecue sauce or a homemade cranberry sauce for a more personal touch.
Chili Sauce: If you want less spice, go with ketchup. For a kick, mix your ketchup with hot sauce. Adjust the amount based on your preference!
How Do You Ensure Meatballs Stay Juicy and Tender?
Keeping meatballs juicy is all about the right balance of ingredients. Here’s how to do it:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture; just combine until the ingredients are well mixed.
- Add moisture: the milk and egg help keep things tender. Don’t skip them!
- Form your meatballs gently and avoid packing them too tightly.
- Cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) to ensure they’re cooked but not dry.
How to Make Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1/2 cup chili sauce (or ketchup mixed with a bit of hot sauce)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp lemon juice
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or microgreens (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake. You’ll need an additional few minutes to warm up the sauce and combine everything. In total, plan for about 45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking, or you can lightly grease it if you prefer.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together gently until all the ingredients are well combined but be careful not to overmix.
3. Form the Meatballs:
Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded so they can cook evenly.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for about 20-25 minutes. They should be cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, take a medium saucepan and combine the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Heat the mixture gently over medium heat until it is warmed through and well mixed.
6. Combine Meatballs with Sauce:
Once the meatballs are fully cooked, carefully transfer them to the saucepan with the cranberry sauce. Stir to coat all the meatballs evenly with the sauce.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the sauced meatballs to a serving dish and spoon any extra sauce over the top. For a lovely finish, garnish with fresh parsley or microgreens if you like!
8. Enjoy:
Serve the meatballs warm with toothpicks for easy snacking. They make for a tasty cocktail appetizer that everyone will love!
Enjoy the perfect balance of savory meat and tangy cranberry glaze that makes these Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs a real crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that turkey tends to be leaner, so you might want to add a bit more moisture, like an extra tablespoon of milk, to keep the meatballs tender.
Can I Freeze the Meatballs?
Yes, these meatballs freeze very well! After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or a zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less spice, simply adjust the amount of chili sauce or use ketchup instead. For a spicier kick, add a bit more hot sauce or some red pepper flakes into the mixture!
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the meatball mixture and form the meatballs a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. You can also make them fully cooked and warmed in the sauce a few hours before serving, then just reheat gently before your guests arrive.