These Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs are small bites of joy! Made with tender beef, a hint of sweet cranberry sauce, and a splash of zesty seasoning, they’re perfect for parties.
They’re so tasty, you might just want to skip the fork and dive right in! 😂 I like to serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking. Enjoy these little flavor bombs!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, turkey or chicken can be a great substitute for healthier meatballs.
Bread Crumbs: I like using plain breadcrumbs, but panko works too! If gluten-free is your goal, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats instead.
Cranberry Sauce: Whole berry cranberry sauce is best for texture and sweetness. If you can’t find it, homemade sauce or even a good-quality store-bought sauce will do.
Chili Sauce: This adds a nice kick, but you can substitute it with barbecue sauce for a milder flavor. If you like it spicy, consider adding a splash of hot sauce!
Fresh Parsley: It’s a nice garnish, but you can skip it if you’re short on time or use other herbs like cilantro or green onions for a different flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Moist?
Keeping your meatballs moist is all about the balance of ingredients and cooking time. Here’s how to do it right:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture; combine just until all ingredients are incorporated.
- Form the meatballs gently to avoid compacting them too much.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Overcooked meatballs can become dry; 20-25 minutes is usually perfect.
- If they seem dry, adding a bit more sauce when cooking can help maintain moisture.
Following these tips will give you tender, juicy meatballs every time! Happy cooking!
How to Make Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the Sauce:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (preferably whole berry)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup chili sauce or barbecue sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes for cooking, making a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a busy day but special enough to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking. This step saves you time during cleanup later!
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything just until it’s combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want tender meatballs, not tough ones!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Now it’s time to form the meatballs! Take a small amount of the meat mixture and roll it into a ball about 1 inch in size. This should make around 20 meatballs. Place each one on the prepared baking sheet or in the baking dish as you go.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Once all the meatballs are shaped, pop them into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. They should be cooked through and nicely browned on the outside. The smell will be amazing!
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, it’s sauce time! In a saucepan over medium heat, mix together the cranberry sauce, ketchup, chili sauce (or barbecue sauce), Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Stir it frequently until the sauce is warmed up and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
6. Combine Meatballs with Sauce:
Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully transfer them into the saucepan with the sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs evenly in that delicious mixture!
7. Simmer to Blend Flavors:
Let the coated meatballs simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This will allow all those yummy flavors to meld together, making each bite extra special!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. They’re ready to be served warm!
9. Enjoy Cocktail Style:
For easy snacking, provide toothpicks so guests can help themselves. These meatballs make a perfect appetizer for parties or family gatherings!
With their sweet and tangy sauce combined with savory beef, these Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs are sure to be a hit! Enjoy your cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a healthier alternative and works well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey can sometimes cook faster than beef.
How Can I Make These Meatballs Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. You could also use oats for a great texture!
Can I Prepare the Meatballs in Advance?
Yes, you can! Make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. You can also freeze them raw; just make sure to thaw completely before baking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you reheat them, try warming them gently in the oven to maintain their texture, or use the stove over low heat with a splash of sauce to keep them moist.
