Name: Cocktail Meatballs IV Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 32
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs Ground Beef; 10 oz Grape Jelly; ¼ cup chili sauce; 2 tbsp prepared mustard

Bring a touch of sweetness to your party appetizers with these cocktail meatballs. This recipe comes with a twist - a tangy and sweet glaze made with grape jelly, chili sauce, and mustard. It's a perfect crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Photos of Cocktail Meatballs IV Recipe

This recipe calls for grape jelly, which might not be a common ingredient in every kitchen. However, it is readily available in most supermarkets, usually in the jams and preserves aisle. It brings a delightful sweet and fruity flavor to the meatballs. Another ingredient is the chili sauce, not to be confused with hot sauce, chili sauce is a bit milder and has more depth of flavor, perfect for this recipe.

Cocktail Meatballs IV Ingredients

Ground beef: The base of the meatballs, choose a lean ground beef for a less fatty outcome.Grape jelly: This gives the meatballs a hint of sweetness and fruitiness.Chili sauce: This adds a mild spiciness and a depth of flavor to the meatballs.Prepared mustard: Adds tanginess and a bit of heat to balance the sweetness of the jelly.

One reader, Job Garland says:

These cocktail meatballs were a hit at my last gathering! The combination of grape jelly, chili sauce, and mustard created a unique and delicious flavor. The meatballs were juicy and tender, and the sauce was the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. A definite crowd-pleaser!

Job Garland

Cooking Techniques for Making Cocktail Meatballs IV

How to shape meatballs: Roll the ground beef into golf-size balls using your hands. This will ensure that the meatballs cook evenly and have a uniform shape.

How to simmer meatballs in sauce: After cooking the meatballs, heat the jelly, chili sauce, and mustard in a Dutch oven. Then, add the cooked meatballs to the sauce, cover the pot, and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the meatballs to absorb the sauce.

How to serve meatballs: Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a chafing dish and provide toothpicks for serving. This presentation keeps the meatballs warm and allows for easy serving at a gathering or party.

How To Make Cocktail Meatballs IV

Cocktail meatballs are a great option for a delectable appetizer if you are hosting a house party with a little time to spare.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

2lbsground beef
10ozgrape jelly
¼cupchili sauce
2tbspprepared mustard

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a large roasting pan with aluminum foil.
Shape ground beef into golf-size balls. Place on the prepared roasting pan for 20 to 25 minutes until done.
Meanwhile heat the jelly, chili sauce, and mustard together in a 2-quart Dutch oven. Drain and add meatballs to the Dutch oven.
Cover and simmer on low for ½ hour. Serve hot in chafing dish with toothpicks.

Nutrition

Calories: 98.38kcal
Fat: 5.71g
Saturated Fat: 2.15g
Trans Fat: 0.33g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.53g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.16g
Carbohydrates: 6.68g
Fiber: 0.25g
Sugar: 4.77g
Protein: 4.97g
Cholesterol: 20.13mg
Sodium: 60.64mg
Calcium: 6.76mg
Potassium: 90.70mg
Iron: 0.60mg
Vitamin A: 1.91µg
Vitamin C: 0.42mg

Expert Tip for Perfecting Cocktail Meatballs

When shaping the ground beef into meatballs, try not to overwork the meat. Overmixing can result in tough and dense meatballs. Instead, gently combine the meat until it just comes together for a tender, juicy result. Also, to ensure even cooking, make sure all the meatballs are the same size. You can use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to get uniform meatballs.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Appetizer

Prep ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Use a scoop: Utilize a cookie scoop to portion out the meat mixture for uniform-sized meatballs, saving time and ensuring even cooking.

Double batch: Consider making a double batch of meatballs and freezing the extras for future use. This will save time on busy days.

Slow cooker: Consider using a slow cooker to simmer the meatballs in the sauce, allowing you to set it and forget it while saving time on active cooking.

Prep station: Set up a designated prep station with all the ingredients and tools needed to streamline the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Cocktail Meatballs IV Recipe

ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef.
grape jelly - Substitute with apricot preserves: Apricot preserves can provide a similar sweet and fruity flavor to the dish.
chili sauce - Substitute with barbecue sauce: Barbecue sauce can add a smoky and tangy flavor similar to chili sauce.
prepared mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard can provide a slightly sharper and more complex flavor compared to regular prepared mustard.

Presentation Ideas for Serving Cocktail Meatballs

Elevate the plating: Arrange the meatballs in a circular pattern on a sleek, white porcelain platter, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a touch of elegance.
Create a stunning centerpiece: Place the meatballs in a chafing dish with a decorative garnish of edible flowers and microgreens to add a visual appeal to the dish.
Incorporate luxury serving ware: Serve the cocktail meatballs in individual mini cast iron skillets for a modern and upscale presentation, adding a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Play with height and dimension: Stack the meatballs on a sleek, modern tiered serving platter, allowing the dish to stand out and create a visually appealing display.
Utilize elegant serving utensils: Serve the meatballs with mini silver tongs or gold-finished serving forks to add a touch of luxury and refinement to the presentation.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Drizzle a delicate pattern of chili sauce and grape jelly reduction on the platter, adding a touch of artistry and enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Cocktail Meatballs IV

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly and efficiently preparing the meatball mixture.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the ground beef with other ingredients and shaping the meatballs. It allows for easy mixing and ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Cocktail Meatballs IV

Allow the cocktail meatballs to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, place the cooled meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the meatballs:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the cooled meatballs in a single layer.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the meatballs are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
To reheat frozen meatballs:
- Thaw the meatballs overnight in the refrigerator.
- Place the thawed meatballs in a saucepan with the grape jelly, chili sauce, and mustard mixture.
- Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, stirring the sauce and meatballs every 30 seconds until heated through.
If you have leftover sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How To Reheat Leftover Cocktail Meatballs

To reheat leftover cocktail meatballs, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Cover the meatballs loosely with foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the meatballs in a slow cooker or Crock-Pot. Transfer the meatballs and any remaining sauce to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 1-2 hours, or until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbling. This method is ideal for keeping the meatballs warm for an extended period, making it perfect for parties or gatherings.
For a quicker option, reheat the meatballs in a microwave. Place the meatballs and sauce in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to prevent splattering. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the meatballs are heated to your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the meatballs to become tough and rubbery.
If you have stored the meatballs and sauce separately, reheat the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until simmering. Add the meatballs and stir gently to coat them evenly with the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the meatballs with a meat thermometer. The meatballs should reach a minimum temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to consume. Once heated, serve the cocktail meatballs immediately with toothpicks or small appetizer forks for easy serving and enjoyment.

Interesting Trivia About Cocktail Meatballs

The cocktail meatballs recipe is a popular party dish that originated in the 1950s. It is believed to have been inspired by the Swedish meatballs, but the addition of grape jelly and chili sauce gives it a unique sweet and tangy flavor. This dish has become a staple at many gatherings and events, and it's a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to suit different tastes. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these meatballs are sure to be a hit at any party.

Budget-Friendly: Making Cocktail Meatballs IV at Home

This cocktail meatballs recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as ground beef, grape jelly, chili sauce, and mustard, are affordable and easily accessible. The dish is versatile and can be served as an appetizer or a main course, making it a practical choice for various occasions. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability, simplicity, and crowd-pleasing appeal.

Is This Appetizer Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The cocktail meatballs IV recipe is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The recipe relies heavily on ground beef, which is high in saturated fat and calories.
Grape jelly and chili sauce contain added sugars, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues when consumed in large quantities.
The recipe lacks vegetables or other nutrient-dense ingredients that could provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef to reduce the saturated fat content.
Replace half of the meat with finely chopped or grated vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content of the meatballs.
Reduce the amount of grape jelly and chili sauce, or opt for low-sugar alternatives to minimize added sugars.
Incorporate additional spices and herbs, such as garlic, onion powder, and parsley, to enhance the flavor without relying on sugar-laden sauces.
Serve the meatballs with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables to increase the overall nutritional value of the meal.
Use whole-grain breadcrumbs or rolled oats as a binder in the meatballs to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates.

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of the cocktail meatballs while still enjoying the flavors and convenience of the original recipe.

Editor's Opinion on the Cocktail Meatballs IV Recipe

This cocktail meatballs recipe is a classic crowd-pleaser, with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of grape jelly, chili sauce, and mustard creates a deliciously tangy and slightly spicy glaze for the meatballs. The meatballs themselves are moist and flavorful, making them a hit at any gathering. The recipe is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for entertaining. Overall, this dish is sure to be a favorite at any party or event.

Enhance Your Cocktail Meatballs IV Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with melted butter.

Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread brushed with herb-infused olive oil and sprinkled with parmesan cheese.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits, drizzled with a zesty honey-lime dressing and garnished with fresh mint leaves.

Similar Appetizer Recipes to Try

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: A delicious and hearty dish that combines ground meat, rice, and savory seasonings, all stuffed inside colorful bell peppers and baked to perfection.

Mango Salsa Chicken: A refreshing and tropical twist on traditional chicken dishes, featuring juicy mango salsa served over tender and flavorful grilled chicken breasts.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in this rich and creamy Italian rice dish, cooked to perfection with flavorful mushrooms, onions, and a touch of white wine for a truly decadent meal.

Banana Bread Pudding: A delightful dessert that combines the comforting flavors of banana bread with a luscious custard, baked to golden perfection and served warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Pairing Suggestions: Main Courses and Desserts

Main Courses:

Beef Stroganoff: Indulge in a creamy and savory beef stroganoff, featuring tender strips of beef in a rich mushroom and onion sauce, served over a bed of buttery egg noodles.

Chicken Parmesan: Treat your taste buds to a classic chicken parmesan, with crispy breaded chicken cutlets smothered in tangy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, served alongside al dente spaghetti.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a dinner party or a romantic evening in.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the smooth and velvety texture of a classic strawberry cheesecake, topped with a luscious strawberry glaze. Each bite is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that will leave you craving for more.

Why trust this Cocktail Meatballs IV Recipe:

This recipe is a tried and true classic, perfect for any gathering. The combination of savory ground beef and the sweet tang of grape jelly creates a mouthwatering flavor profile. The addition of chili sauce and mustard adds a zesty kick, elevating the dish to a whole new level. The cooking process ensures that the meatballs are tender and juicy, making them a crowd-pleaser every time. Trust in the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe, and you won't be disappointed.

Want to share your favorite cocktail meatball recipe or get tips on perfecting this tasty appetizer? Join the discussion about "Cocktail Meatballs IV Recipe" in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

What can I use as a substitute for grape jelly?

You can substitute grape jelly with other fruit jellies such as apple or apricot jelly. You can also use a combination of ketchup and brown sugar for a different flavor profile.

Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or ground chicken as a substitute for ground beef. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time and reheat them later?

Absolutely! You can make the meatballs ahead of time and reheat them in the sauce just before serving. This is a great time-saving option for parties and gatherings.

How can I make the meatballs less spicy?

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of chili sauce or use a milder variety. You can also add a bit more grape jelly to balance out the spiciness.

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the meatballs either before or after cooking. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to use, simply thaw and reheat them in the sauce.