These Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs are a fun and tasty treat! Made with juicy meatballs, sweet cranberry sauce, and zesty barbecue sauce, they’re perfect for any gathering.
They always disappear fast at parties! I like to serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking. Plus, they’re super simple to make—just mix, cook, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use 1 lb of ground beef for rich flavor. You can mix it with ground pork for added moisture and richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken works well, but they may need extra seasoning.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oatmeal can be good substitutes. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
Cranberry Sauce: Whole berry cranberry sauce is great for texture and flavor. If you want it sweeter, opt for jellied cranberry sauce or even homemade if you’re feeling adventurous. Don’t worry if it’s not cranberry season; canned works perfectly!
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand, but I prefer a tangy or slightly smoky sauce to complement the sweetness of the cranberry. Feel free to substitute with any type of sauce you enjoy, such as sweet chili or teriyaki sauce.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Are Tender and Delicious?
Getting perfectly tender meatballs is all about the mixing and cooking method. Here’s how to do it well:
- Mix ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to dense meatballs, so stop as soon as everything is combined.
- Shape evenly. Aim for uniform sizes—about 1-inch diameter helps them cook evenly.
- Bake or sauté with care. Baking is easier and less messy, but sautéing gives a nice sear. Just be careful not to overcook them!
- Coat in sauce quickly. Once you cook the meatballs, move them to the sauce right away so they soak up all that flavor.
With these tips, you’re sure to impress everyone with your tasty cocktail meatballs!
How to Make Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated onion or finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry preferred)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 10-15 minutes to prepare and an additional 20-25 minutes to cook. So, you’re looking at a total time of around 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Meatballs:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and thyme (if you’re using it). Mix these ingredients gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this helps keep your meatballs tender!
2. Shaping the Meatballs:
Now, it’s time to shape your mixture into small meatballs. Aim for about 1-inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased so they don’t stick.
3. Baking the Meatballs:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes. You want them to be cooked through and nicely browned on the outside. If you prefer, you can also cook them in a skillet on medium heat until they are browned and cooked through.
4. Preparing the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, get a medium saucepan and combine the cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce. Heat it gently over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. You want it to be warm and nicely mixed, spreading that delicious flavor.
5. Combining and Serving:
Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully transfer them to the saucepan with the warm cranberry-barbecue sauce. Gently stir to coat all the meatballs in that tasty sauce. You want every meatball to be covered in flavor!
6. Garnishing:
Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. Serve these delightful meatballs hot with toothpicks for easy snacking at your next gathering!
These meatballs strike a perfect balance between savory and sweet with a delicious cranberry barbecue glaze—ideal for entertaining or just enjoying a casual snack! Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Meats in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef or a mix of beef and pork works best, you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist. Just keep in mind that chicken and turkey may require a bit more seasoning to enhance their flavor.
Can I Make These Meatballs in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just form the meatballs and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to bake. For optimal freshness, try to bake them on the same day you plan to serve them!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be heated in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. If you have a lot of leftovers, consider freezing them for longer storage—just make sure to seal them well!
Can I Use Homemade Sauces?
Definitely! If you prefer homemade sauces, feel free to whip up your own cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce. Just aim for a balance of sweet and tangy flavors to capture the essence of this dish.
