These Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs are a tasty treat perfect for any gathering! Made with tender ground meat, they’re coated in a sweet and tangy sauce that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Who can resist a meatball? They’re like little bites of happiness on a toothpick! I love serving them with some toothpicks and a side of napkins—things can get a bit saucy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use ground beef or mix it with pork for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works too—just be cautious since they cook faster.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs are lovely, but you can use panko for a lighter texture. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a great alternative if you have dietary needs.
Cranberry Sauce: Go for whole berry cranberry sauce; its chunks add great texture. If fresh cranberries are in season, you can make your own sauce by cooking them down with sugar and water.
Chili Sauce: If you want a milder flavor, ketchup works fine! For a spicy kick, add a bit of hot sauce or use a spicy chili sauce instead.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Stay Juicy?
The key to juicy meatballs lies in mixing the ingredients without overworking the meat. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Use your hands or a spoon to combine everything, and stop mixing as soon as it comes together!
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for a nice, crispy exterior.
- Shape your meatballs gently; they should be light and not packed tight.
- Avoid leaving them in the oven too long. They should be nicely browned after about 15-20 minutes.
How to Make Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp dried basil
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry)
- 1/2 cup chili sauce (like Heinz or your favorite brand)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, plus any extra time you want to let the sauce simmer. In total, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes to whip up a delicious batch of meatballs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will help those meatballs get that perfect golden-brown finish. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or pork), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, milk, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything gently. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until it’s all incorporated!
3. Shape the Meatballs
Now it’s time to shape your meatballs! Take a small handful of the mixture and roll it into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs evenly on your prepared baking sheet or in the baking dish.
4. Bake the Meatballs
Pop the meatballs into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; once they’re nice and browned and cooked through, they’re ready!
5. Prepare the Cape Cod Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, let’s get the sauce going! In a medium saucepan, mix together the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sauce is warm and smooth. The sweet and tangy aroma will fill your kitchen!
6. Coat the Meatballs
When the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour that warm, delicious sauce over the meatballs and toss gently to coat them evenly.
7. Serve!
Transfer the coated meatballs to a serving dish. garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color, and serve warm. Enjoy your Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs at your next gathering or as a tasty treat at home!
This dish is perfect for any occasion, delivering tender meatballs smothered in a vibrant, sweet-tangy sauce. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness around the 15-minute mark.
How Can I Make the Meatballs Gluten-Free?
For gluten-free meatballs, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. You can also use ground oats as a binder for a great texture!
Can I Prepare the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can form the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This can save you time on the day you plan to serve them.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking! When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.