Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs are tender and juicy, packed with flavor from the sweet and tangy cranberry sauce mixed with zesty barbecue sauce. They make the perfect party snack!
Honestly, who can resist these little bites of joy? They’re like flavor explosions in your mouth! I love serving them with toothpicks so guests can enjoy them easily while mingling.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like to use ground beef for its rich flavor, but a mix of ground beef and pork gives a wonderful texture and taste. You could even swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Breadcrumbs: You can use plain breadcrumbs, but panko breadcrumbs work great too! They make the meatballs extra light and fluffy. If gluten-free, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or oatmeal.
Cranberry Sauce: Jellied cranberry sauce is traditional, but you can use whole cranberry sauce or homemade cranberry sauce for a fresher taste. If you want a twist, add some orange zest for a citrus kick.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite barbecue sauce for the best flavor! If you’re watching sugar, opt for a sugar-free barbecue sauce or make your own using tomato paste and spices.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Stay Juicy?
Keeping meatballs juicy is all about the mixing and cooking process. Here are my tips to ensure they turn out perfectly!
- Don’t Overmix: Combine the ingredients until just mixed. Overworking makes them tough.
- Correct Size: Make them about 1 inch in diameter for even cooking and tenderness.
- Baking: Baking instead of frying helps them retain moisture while getting a nice crust.
- Simmer in Sauce: Allowing the cooked meatballs to simmer in the sauce lets them absorb those delicious flavors and keep them moist.
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)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1 (14 oz) can jellied cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp vinegar (apple cider or white)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Total Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and mixing the ingredients, 25 minutes baking the meatballs, and another 10 minutes simmering them in the sauce. Just let them cool a bit, and they’re ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, get your baking sheet ready by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light spray of cooking oil.
2. Make the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or pork mix), breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands or a fork until just combined—don’t overdo it!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Now, use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they have a little space between each one.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and let the meatballs bake for 20-25 minutes. They should be cooked through and nicely browned when done.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, it’s sauce time! In a medium saucepan, mix together the jellied cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, ketchup, and vinegar. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until everything is warm and nicely blended.
6. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Once the meatballs are out of the oven, transfer them into the saucepan with the sauce. Let them simmer together for 5-10 minutes. This allows the meatballs to soak up the tangy, sweet flavors of the sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, transfer the meatballs to a serving platter. Garnish them with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. If you’re serving at a party, you can also provide toothpicks for easy serving. Enjoy these delicious cocktail meatballs as a perfect appetizer!
These Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just be aware that turkey can be a bit drier, so adding a little more moisture, like extra milk or finely chopped vegetables, can help keep them juicy.
Can I Make These Meatballs in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance! Shape them and store them raw in the refrigerator for up to a day or freeze them for longer storage. When you’re ready to cook, just bake frozen meatballs longer until cooked through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Just be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I Substitute the Jellied Cranberry Sauce?
Yes! You can use whole cranberry sauce or homemade cranberry sauce for a fresher taste. If you’re looking for a twist, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy flavor!