These classic cocktail meatballs are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that is perfect for parties and gatherings. Made with a flavorful blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and spices, these meatballs are cooked in a tangy and sweet sauce that will leave you craving for more. They are easy to make ahead of time and can be easily reheated. Serve these tasty meatballs on toothpicks for a fun and convenient finger food option. These cocktail meatballs are sure to be a hit at your next get-together!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up.
- While the meatballs are chilling, prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce comes to a simmer.
- Once the sauce is simmering, add the chilled meatballs to the saucepan. Stir gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 20 minutes, or until fully cooked and heated through.
- Serve the cocktail meatballs hot, using toothpicks for easy serving.
- Enjoy!
