Cocktail meatballs are tiny bites of joy! Made with ground meat, breadcrumbs, and tasty spices, they’re perfect for parties or a fun family night.
They’re easy to grab and eat, so you can enjoy them without losing your place in the conversation. I love serving mine with a sweet sauce—it’s a total crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I like using a mix of beef and pork for richer flavor. However, you can easily use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Both still keep the meatballs juicy!
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work great, but you can use panko for extra crunch. If you’re gluten-free, try crushed gluten-free crackers or oats as a substitute.
Onion: Finely chopped onion gives moisture and flavor. If you don’t have fresh onions, onion powder can be a quick substitute, using around 1 teaspoon.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice umami flavor. If you’re out, try pecorino or any hard cheese you like. Nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free alternative!
Sauce: Barbecue sauce is a classic choice, but feel free to try sweet and sour sauce or even a homemade teriyaki sauce if you want a twist.
How Do I Keep My Meatballs from Falling Apart?
Keeping meatballs together is all about the right texture! Here are some tips:
- Use the right amount of breadcrumbs and egg; they help bind the mixture. If too dry, add a splash of milk.
- Don’t overmix! Combine just until ingredients are mixed to keep them tender.
- Shape them gently. Firm handling can make them tough.
- Chill the formed meatballs for 30 minutes before cooking, as this helps them hold their shape better.
Delicious Cocktail Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Meatball Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
For Cooking:
- 2 cups barbecue sauce or a sweet and tangy cocktail sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Making these cocktail meatballs takes about 15-20 minutes to prep and another 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish, including time for simmering in sauce. Perfect for a quick and tasty appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano. Use your hands or a fork to mix everything gently but thoroughly until it’s all well combined. Don’t overmix—keep it tender!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
With clean hands, take some of the meat mixture and shape it into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate or tray as you go—this will make cooking easier later on.
3. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs carefully. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Make sure to cook them until no longer pink inside.
4. Add the Sauce:
Once browned, drain any excess grease from the pan. Now, pour your chosen barbecue or cocktail sauce over the meatballs. Stir gently to ensure they’re all evenly coated in that delicious sauce!
5. Simmer:
Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and thickens the sauce a bit. Keep the heat low so everything stays warm without burning!
6. Serve:
Transfer your delicious cocktail meatballs to a serving dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Don’t forget to add cocktail sticks for easy serving!
7. Enjoy:
Serve warm as a delightful appetizer or party snack. They’re sure to be a hit with everyone!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option. Just be aware that turkey can be drier than beef, so consider adding a little extra moisture, like a tablespoon of milk or an extra egg, for tenderness.
How Can I Make These Meatballs Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free meatballs, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ground oats can also work well as a binder!
What Sauces Can I Use Besides Barbecue?
If barbecue sauce isn’t your favorite, you can try sweet and sour sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a homemade cranberry sauce for a festive twist. Each will give your meatballs a unique flavor!
Can I Make These Meatballs in Advance?
Yes, you can! Form the meatballs and store them uncooked in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, you can freeze them for longer storage. Just thaw them in the fridge before cooking!