These cocktail meatballs are juicy, bite-sized treats that are perfect for any gathering! They’re usually made with tasty ground meat, breadcrumbs, and a mix of seasonings.
They’re so easy to pop in your mouth while chatting with friends—or while sneaking a few when no one is watching! I love serving them with a zesty sauce for extra flavor. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for a mix of ground beef and pork for a nice balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken work great too!
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are perfect, but you can also use panko for added texture. If gluten is a concern, try gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed oats.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh is always best, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use onion powder and garlic powder instead. Start with 1 tsp of each to keep the flavors balanced.
Sauce: BBQ sauce gives a sweet kick, but if you want something with a little heat, a spicy chili sauce or even a homemade teriyaki sauce is lovely. You can also adjust the sweetness by making your own sauce with tomato sauce, honey, and spices.
How Do You Keep Meatballs Tender and Juicy?
The secret to tender meatballs is all in the mixing and cooking technique. Here’s how to make sure your meatballs stay juicy:
- Mix the ingredients just enough to combine. Overmixing can lead to dense meatballs.
- Let the breadcrumbs soak in milk before mixing. This keeps the meatballs moist.
- Shape your meatballs gently without compacting them too much. Think about a light touch.
- Bake them at a higher temperature (400°F) to get that nice crust while keeping the inside juicy.
These small tips go a long way in ensuring your cocktail meatballs end up soft and delicious. Enjoy making your tasty treats!
How to Make Delicious Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce or chili sauce (for glazing)
- Toothpicks or small skewers for serving
- Optional: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for extra umami
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for baking. After that, you’ll need a few minutes to toss in the sauce and get everything ready to serve. In total, you’re looking at around 30-40 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick and tasty appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important for getting those meatballs nice and crispy! Carefully line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and milk. Allow this mixture to sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs soak up the milk. This will help keep your meatballs moist!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the ground meat, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, and parsley. If you’re using Worcestershire sauce, add that in too. Gently combine all ingredients until just mixed—be careful not to overdo it, as this keeps the meatballs tender!
4. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each meatball onto the prepared baking sheet as you go.
5. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and let the meatballs bake for about 15-20 minutes, until they are cooked through and have a golden-brown exterior. You can check with a meat thermometer—160°F (70°C) is the safe temperature for ground meat!
6. Warm the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, take your barbecue or chili sauce and warm it in a saucepan over low heat. This way, the sauce will be nice and hot when it’s time to coat the meatballs.
7. Coat the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are done, carefully transfer them into the saucepan with the warmed sauce. Gently toss them in the sauce until they’re well coated and heat them together for a couple of minutes to bring out the flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the sauced meatballs to a serving plate. Stick toothpicks or small skewers into each meatball for easy serving. If you like, you can sprinkle some extra parsley on top for a fresh finish!
Serve these warm at your next gathering, and get ready for compliments! They’re perfect for parties, game days, or as a cozy snack. Enjoy your delicious cocktail meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just ensure to season it well, as turkey can be milder in flavor than beef.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure to cool them completely before freezing!
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and bake them in advance. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then refrigerate or freeze until you’re ready to use them. Reheat in the sauce before serving!
What Sauce Can I Use Besides Barbecue?
Aside from barbecue sauce, you can use a sweet and sour sauce, chili sauce, or even a homemade teriyaki or tomato-based sauce for a different flavor profile. Just pick what you love!