These Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs are a fun and tasty snack for any party! Made with ground meat and a sweet-sour sauce, they’re bursting with flavor in every bite.
Trust me, once you start popping these delicious meatballs, you might find it hard to stop! I love serving them with toothpicks for easy munching—perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: While I suggest using ground beef, a mix of beef and pork gives a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can also work well.
Onion: Fresh onion adds great flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can use onion powder (about 1 teaspoon) as a substitute.
Breadcrumbs: If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or rolled oats can be good alternatives. Gluten-free bread crumbs or oats can accommodate dietary restrictions too.
Cranberry Sauce: Whole berry cranberry sauce is delightful, but if you prefer something sweeter, use jellied cranberry sauce. You can also mix in some grape jelly for a twist!
Chili Sauce: If chili sauce isn’t available, ketchup mixed with a dash of hot sauce works beautifully. Adjust it based on your spice preference!
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Moist and Flavorful?
The key to juicy meatballs is to avoid overmixing. Combine your ingredients gently so they blend without getting tough. Here are some tips:
- Soak breadcrumbs in milk before mixing; this keeps the meatballs moist.
- Shape the meatballs evenly, roughly one inch in diameter, to ensure even cooking.
- Bake them until just cooked through—about 15-20 minutes should do it. Don’t overbake!
By keeping these steps in mind, you’ll have meatballs that are not only flavorful but also tender!
How to Make Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry style preferred)
- 1/2 cup chili sauce (or ketchup with a touch of hot sauce)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
For Serving:
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
- Toothpicks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, for a total of about 30 minutes of your time! It’s perfect for a quick yet impressively tasty treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing to Bake:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Get a baking sheet, and line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will help prevent the meatballs from sticking.
2. Soaking the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in the milk for a few minutes until they are fully absorbed. This will keep your meatballs nice and moist!
3. Mixing the Meatballs:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground meat, chopped onion, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Use your hands to mix gently but thoroughly, ensuring everything is blended evenly.
4. Shaping the Meatballs:
Now it’s time to make the meatballs! Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Try to keep them all roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
5. Baking the Meatballs:
Pop the meatballs into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until they’re cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
6. Making the Sweet and Tangy Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, you can prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan, mix together the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Heat this over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it is warm and well combined.
7. Combining Meatballs with Sauce:
Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to the saucepan with the sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce, and let them simmer together for about 5 minutes. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld!
8. Serving It Up:
Transfer the coated meatballs into a serving bowl. If you want, you can garnish with fresh parsley and rosemary sprigs for a lovely touch.
9. Enjoy:
Serve the meatballs warm with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Get ready for everyone to rave about your amazing meatballs!
This sweet and tangy Cape Cod cocktail meatballs recipe is perfect for parties or holiday gatherings—enjoy the juicy, flavorful bites!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of beef and pork will work well. Just keep in mind that leaner meats like turkey may need a little more moisture, so consider adding an extra tablespoon of milk or breadcrumbs if you use them.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months! Just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead! Simply prepare the sauce as instructed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before combining with the baked meatballs.
What’s the Best Way to Serve These Meatballs?
These meatballs are best served warm with toothpicks for easy snacking. They make a great appetizer for parties or as a main dish with sides like rice or pasta. For a fun twist, try serving them in mini sliders!