Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet are a delightful blend of flavors that are sure to impress at any gathering. These juicy meatballs, coated in a sweet glaze made from grape jelly and chili sauce, are perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply as a comforting home-cooked dish. The combination of sweet and savory creates a unique taste that keeps guests coming back for more. Let’s dive into this easy recipe and make these delicious meatball appetizers!

Why You’ll Love This Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet

There are countless reasons to love these Sweet Savory Meatballs. First, they are incredibly simple to prepare, making them an ideal choice for any occasion. Second, the flavor is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, which appeals to a wide range of palates. Third, they are versatile; you can serve them as an appetizer or even as a main dish. Fourth, they are made with easy-to-find ingredients, ensuring that you can whip them up effortlessly. Fifth, these meatballs can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your event stress-free. Lastly, they are always a crowd-pleaser, captivating guests with their mouthwatering taste and aroma. With these benefits, it’s clear why meatballs are served as appetizers!

Ingredients for Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet

Gather these items:

1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred, or substitute ground turkey or pork)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style; panko works too)
1/4 cup grated onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
2 tbsp milk (whole or 2%, or dairy-free alternative)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried parsley or Italian seasoning (optional)
1 cup grape jelly (or apricot, cranberry, or orange marmalade)
1 cup chili sauce (such as Heinz)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Toothpicks or party picks (for serving)

How to Make Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or nonstick foil.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried parsley (if using). Mix gently until just combined.
Step 3: Shape mixture into 1-inch balls (about 24 meatballs) and place evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake for 15-18 minutes, until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
Step 5: While meatballs bake, combine grape jelly, chili sauce, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce (if using), and garlic powder in a large skillet or saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring often, until jelly melts and glaze is smooth (about 5-7 minutes).
Step 6: Transfer baked meatballs to the skillet with glaze. Gently turn to coat each meatball and let simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 7: Transfer glazed meatballs to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and insert toothpicks for easy serving. Serve warm.

Pro Tips for the Best Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet

Keep these in mind:

These meatballs are great for parties and potlucks.
Substitute any ground meat as desired.
Adjust sweetness by using different types of jelly.
For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper to the glaze.
Consider using a slow cooker for a hassle-free cooking experience.

Best Ways to Serve Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet

These Delicious Meatball Appetizers can be served in various ways. First, place them on a large platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Second, you can serve them over rice or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. Third, consider pairing them with a dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor. They are perfect for entertaining guests!

How to Store and Reheat Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet

To store leftovers, place the meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can be enjoyed for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave them for quick reheating. This meal prep-friendly dish is easy to make in advance!

Frequently Asked Questions About Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet

What’s the secret to perfect Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet?

The secret lies in balancing the sweet and savory elements within the glaze. Using high-quality jelly and ensuring that your meatballs are cooked properly will elevate your dish significantly. This is essential in making Sweet and Savory Meatballs that everyone will love!

Can I make Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and the glaze ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them before serving. This makes them an ideal choice for meal prep or parties!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture, as this can make them tough. Also, ensure that your oven is properly preheated to achieve an even cook. This will help you create perfect Sweet Cocktail Meatballs every time.

Variations of Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet You Can Try

There are many exciting variations to explore! You can try using ground turkey for a lighter option or incorporate different types of jelly for unique flavors. Additionally, consider adding some herbs or spices to the mixture for an extra zing. These Sweet and Savory Meatball Variations can be tailored to suit any palate.

Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet with a Sweet Glaze - Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet - additional detail

With this recipe for Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet, you’re set to impress your guests and create a dish that is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and savory that makes these meatballs a favorite at any gathering!

For more delicious recipes, check out Guinness Gravy Meatballs or Korean BBQ Meatballs. If you’re interested in meal prep, you might also like Slow Cooker Korean Beef.

Savory Cocktail Meatballs Sweet with a Sweet Glaze

Author: basmer
Total Time: 40 min
Yield: 24 meatballs 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Savory Cocktail Meatballs with Sweet Glaze

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or nonstick foil.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried parsley (if using). Mix gently until just combined.
Shape mixture into 1-inch balls (about 24 meatballs) and place evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
While meatballs bake, combine grape jelly, chili sauce, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce (if using), and garlic powder in a large skillet or saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring often, until jelly melts and glaze is smooth (about 5-7 minutes).
Transfer baked meatballs to the skillet with glaze. Gently turn to coat each meatball and let simmer for 5 minutes.
Transfer glazed meatballs to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and insert toothpicks for easy serving. Serve warm.