Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This prevents the meatballs from sticking and ensures even baking.
- Combine Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped yellow onion, beaten egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough meatballs. Mix just until all ingredients are evenly distributed.1.5 lbs lean ground beef, 1/2 cup unseasoned breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion, 1 large egg, 2 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, roll the meat mixture into small, uniform meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter. Aim for consistency in size to ensure they cook evenly. This recipe typically yields about 30-40 meatballs, depending on their size.
- Bake the Meatballs: Arrange the formed meatballs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside. An internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) indicates they are done. You can also pan-fry them for extra browning if preferred, but baking is less messy.
- Prepare the Cocktail Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the cocktail sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the grape jelly, chili sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.1 12 ounce_jar grape jelly, 1 12 ounce_bottle chili sauce, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Simmer the Sauce: Heat the sauce mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the grape jelly is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and simmering. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low to keep the sauce warm.
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Once the meatballs are cooked, you have a few options:
- Option A (For stovetop/slow cooker): Drain any excess fat from the cooked meatballs. Transfer the meatballs directly into the saucepan with the warm cocktail sauce. Stir gently to coat all the meatballs evenly.
- Option B (For serving separately): Place the cooked meatballs in a serving dish and pour the warm sauce over them just before serving.
- Serve & Garnish: If using, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot with toothpicks, as an appetizer, or alongside rice for a more substantial meal.1 tablespoon fresh parsley
Notes
These Simple Delicious Cocktail Meatballs are not only fantastic fresh but also store and reheat beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers.
