Cocktail Meatballs
Cocktail meatballs are a classic party appetizer—bite-size beef meatballs simmered in a sweet-and-savory chili sauce and grape jelly glaze.
They’re easy to make ahead for holidays and gatherings, and this batch makes about five dozen appetizers—perfect for a crowd.
Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef1/2 cup dried bread crumbs
1/3 cup milk
1 egg
1 tbsp snipped parsley
1/3 cup minced onions
one teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup shortening
1-12 oz bottle of Heinz chili sauce
1-10 Oz jar Welch's grape jelly
Instructions
Cocktail sausages: Substitute 4 jars (4 1/2 oz each) cocktail sausages for meatballs, simmer in jelly mixture 20 minutes.
Mix ground beef, bread crumbs, onion, milk, egg and next four ingredients; gently shape into one-inch balls. Melt shortening in large skillet;
brown meatballs. Remove meatballs from skillet; pour off fat. Heat chili sauce and jelly in skillet, stirring constantly, until jelly
is melted. Add meatballs and stir until thoroughly coated. Simmer uncovered 30 minutes. Makes five dozen appetizers.
Cocktail Meatballs FAQ
How many cocktail meatballs does this recipe make?
This recipe makes about five dozen (around 60) bite-size cocktail meatballs.
Can I make cocktail meatballs ahead of time?
Yes. You can brown the meatballs and refrigerate them, then rewarm by simmering in the chili sauce and grape jelly mixture before serving.
What sauce is used for these cocktail meatballs?
The sauce is a sweet-and-savory mix of chili sauce and grape jelly, simmered until smooth and glossy.
Can I substitute cocktail sausages for the meatballs?
Yes. Substitute cocktail sausages and simmer them in the jelly mixture for about 20 minutes, as noted in the recipe.