Great Cocktail Meatballs: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic
Great Cocktail Meatballs are the ultimate party appetizer, perfect for gatherings like potlucks, family get-togethers, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. These juicy, tender meatballs are coated in a sweet and tangy cranberry chili sauce that’s both simple to make and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to whip up something special for dinner, these meatballs are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients and Their Roles
Main Ingredients:
1 pound lean ground beef: The base of the meatballs, providing a rich, savory flavor and tender texture.
1 egg: Binds the ingredients together, ensuring the meatballs hold their shape.
2 tablespoons water: Adds moisture to keep the meatballs juicy.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs while adding texture.
3 tablespoons minced onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the meatballs, enhancing their overall flavor.
1 (8-ounce) can jellied cranberry sauce: The foundation of the sweet and tangy sauce that coats the meatballs.
3/4 cup chili sauce: Adds a mild heat and complements the cranberry sauce for a balanced flavor.
1 tablespoon brown sugar: Sweetens the sauce, balancing the tartness of the cranberry.
1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice: Adds a touch of acidity, brightening the sauce and balancing the sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparation:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the meatballs.
2. Make the Meatballs:
Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, water, breadcrumbs, and minced onion. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed, being careful not to overmix to avoid tough meatballs.
Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, for even cooking. Arrange the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake the Meatballs:
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning the meatballs halfway through to ensure even browning.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
Make the Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, combine the jellied cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice in a large saucepan over low heat. Stir until the cranberry sauce melts and the ingredients are fully combined, creating a thick, smooth sauce.
5. Combine and Cook:
Add Meatballs to Sauce: Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to the saucepan with the sauce. Stir gently to coat the meatballs evenly with the sauce.
Simmer: Simmer the meatballs in the sauce on low heat for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to ensure the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve:
Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with chopped parsley or extra minced onion if desired. These meatballs are perfect as an appetizer with toothpicks or as a main course over rice or noodles.
Variations and Substitutions
Turkey or Chicken: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
Spicy Variation: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Slow Cooker Method: After forming the meatballs, place them in a slow cooker with the sauce ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours for a convenient, hands-off approach.
Conclusion
Great Cocktail Meatballs are a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of juicy meatballs and richly flavored sweet-and-sour cranberry chili sauce makes every bite delightful. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it to suit different tastes and dietary needs, these meatballs will quickly become a favorite at your gatherings. Enjoy the blend of tender meat and bold flavors in every bite!
