“cocktail Meatballs”
Indulge in the irresistible goodness of cocktail meatballs! These delectable bites are ideal for parties, game nights, or as a quick appetizer. Bursting with flavor and served in a rich sauce, they promise to be the highlight of any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a festive celebration or a casual get-together, these meatballs are sure to delight everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pepper
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 20 meatballs, making it perfect for a small gathering. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, while cooking time takes 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of cocktail meatballs (approximately 5 meatballs) contains about 300 calories, 18g of protein, 20g of fat, 15g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix the ingredients until well combined.
4. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
7. In a saucepan, mix barbecue sauce and honey over medium heat.
8. Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the sauce and stir to coat.
9. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
10. Serve warm, garnished with parsley and toothpicks.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for a gluten-free version, and honey can be replaced with maple syrup for a different sweetness.
Serving and Pairings
Cocktail meatballs pair wonderfully with toothpicks for easy serving. They can be enjoyed with a side of fresh veggies, dips like ranch or blue cheese, or served over rice or pasta for a heartier meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover cocktail meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. For longer storage, meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture; it can lead to tough meatballs.
- Ensure the meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Don’t skip baking time; undercooked meatballs can be unsafe.
- Use a thermometer to check that meatballs reach 160°F (70°C).
- Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different sauces for a unique flavor.
- Add chopped herbs like parsley or basil for freshness.
- For spicy meatballs, mix in red pepper flakes.
- Make a double batch to freeze for future parties.
FAQs
Can I make cocktail meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and bake them ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator and reheat in the sauce before serving.
What is the best way to serve cocktail meatballs?
Cocktail meatballs are best served warm with toothpicks for easy eating. A decorative platter adds a festive touch!
Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen meatballs; just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What sauce can I use for cocktail meatballs?
While barbecue sauce is popular, you can also use sweet and sour sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a homemade marinara for variety.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Alternatively, cut one in half to check that it’s no longer pink inside.
Conclusion
Cocktail meatballs are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can elevate any gathering. With their savory flavor and easy preparation, they are perfect for both casual and formal occasions. Try this recipe to impress your guests and enjoy a delightful culinary experience!
Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
- In a saucepan, mix barbecue sauce and honey over medium heat.
- Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the sauce and stir to coat.
- Simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve warm, garnished with parsley and toothpicks.