Spicy and Tangy Cocktail Meatballs Recipe

4 stars
3.82 (15)
Spicy and Tangy Cocktail Meatballs Recipe
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Total Time:
65mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on September 19, 2023

These spicy and tangy cocktail meatballs are the perfect appetizer for your next gathering. Made with a flavorful combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and spices, and simmered in a delicious homemade glaze, these meatballs are sure to be a crowd pleaser. Serve them up with toothpicks for easy snacking and watch as they quickly disappear. Get ready to impress your guests with these mouthwatering cocktail meatballs!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • Toothpicks, for serving

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
  5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, pineapple juice, and soy sauce. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it comes to a simmer.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering glaze, stirring constantly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened.
  7. Remove the meatballs from the oven and transfer them to a large skillet. Pour the glaze over the meatballs and gently toss to coat.
  8. Simmer the meatballs in the glaze over medium-low heat for 10 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened and the meatballs are heated through.
  9. Serve the cocktail meatballs hot, with toothpicks for easy serving.

Interesting Facts

  • Cocktail meatballs are a classic party appetizer that originated in the United States.
  • You can customize the level of spiciness in these meatballs by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper used.
  • The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in the glaze makes these meatballs incredibly flavorful.