Sweet and Spicy Cocktail Meatballs Recipe

The sweet and spicy cocktail meatballs are a perfect crowd-pleaser for any party. These meatballs, drenched in a tangy, yet sweet sauce, offer a burst of flavors. Easy to make and satisfyingly delicious, they are sure to have your guests asking for more.

Photos of Sweet and Spicy Cocktail Meatballs Recipe

While most of the ingredients are quite common and possibly already in your kitchen, two key ingredients you may need to pick up from the supermarket are the chile sauce and grape jelly. The chile sauce adds a beautiful heat to the meatballs, and the grape jelly balances it out with a hint of sweetness. If you don't already have these at home, they are easily available in the condiments aisle of your local supermarket.

Ingredients for Sweet and Spicy Cocktail Meatballs

Ground beef: A staple in many households, ground beef forms the base of the meatballs. Its rich, savory flavor is what gives the meatballs their hearty taste.

Dry bread crumbs: These help bind the meatballs while also adding a subtle crunch.

Milk: A dash of milk makes the meatballs tender and juicy.

Ground black pepper: A kitchen essential, it provides a spicy warmth to the meatballs.

Fresh parsley: This adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.

Onion: A universal flavor enhancer, onions give the meatballs an added depth of flavor.

Salt: This crucial ingredient brings out all the other flavors in the meatballs.

Egg: This acts as a binder, keeping the meatballs together.

Worcestershire sauce: This adds a tangy, umami flavor to the meatballs.

Shortening: Used for browning the meatballs, it also contributes to the overall flavor.

Chile sauce: This gives the meatballs a spicy kick.

Grape jelly: An unusual ingredient in a savory dish, the jelly provides a sweet counterpoint to the heat of the chile sauce.

One reader, Dwain Hurley says:

These sweet and spicy cocktail meatballs are a game-changer! The combination of grape jelly and chili sauce creates a tantalizing flavor explosion. The meatballs are tender and juicy, and the sauce is the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. It's a guaranteed hit at any gathering!

Dwain Hurley

Techniques Required for Making Sweet and Spicy Cocktail Meatballs

How to shape the beef mixture into 1-inch meatballs: Take a small amount of the beef mixture and roll it between your palms to form a ball that is approximately 1 inch in diameter.

How to brown the meatballs: Heat the shortening in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides.

How to simmer the meatballs in the sauce: Pour the sauce over the browned meatballs in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are thoroughly cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly.

How To Make Sweet and Spicy Cocktail Meatballs

Grab a bite of these tasty cocktail meatballs recipe made sweeter with grape jelly and spicier with chile sauce, for a tender and mouthwatering meal!

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbground beef
½cupdry bread crumbs
¼cupmilk
⅛tspground black pepper
1tbspfresh parsley,snipped
⅓cuponion,minced
1tspsalt
1egg
½tspWorcestershire sauce
¼cupshortening
12ozchile sauce,(1 bottle)
1¼cupsgrape jelly

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, dry bread crumbs, and milk.
Blend in the ground pepper, parsley, onion, salt, egg, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly, then shape the beef mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
In a large skillet, melt the shortening over medium heat, then brown the meatballs.
In a medium saucepan, mix the chile sauce and grape jelly over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the jelly is melted.
Pour the sauce over the browning meatballs, then simmer for 30 minutes or until the meatballs are thoroughly cooked.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 773.06kcal
Fat: 38.13g
Saturated Fat: 12.64g
Trans Fat: 3.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 16.03g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.87g
Carbohydrates: 82.37g
Fiber: 2.24g
Sugar: 51.86g
Protein: 24.09g
Cholesterol: 122.03mg
Sodium: 2483.93mg
Calcium: 100.76mg
Potassium: 598.48mg
Iron: 4.08mg
Vitamin A: 39.61µg
Vitamin C: 74.76mg

Mastering the Art of Cocktail Meatballs: A Technique Tip

When forming your meatballs, try to keep them all the same size. This will ensure they cook evenly and at the same rate. You can use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to help get a consistent size. Also, don't pack the meatballs too tightly. A lighter touch results in a more tender meatball.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Cocktail Meatballs

Prep ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Use a scoop: Use a cookie scoop to portion out the meat mixture for uniform meatballs, saving time and ensuring even cooking.

Double batch: Consider making a larger batch and freezing half for future use. This way, you'll have a quick and delicious meal ready to go.

Slow cooker: Consider using a slow cooker to simmer the meatballs in the sauce. This allows for hands-off cooking and can save time in the kitchen.

Prep station: Set up a designated prep station with all the ingredients and tools needed to streamline the cooking process.

Bake: Instead of browning the meatballs in a skillet, consider baking them in the oven for a hands-off approach to cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Sweet and Spicy Cocktail Meatballs Recipe

ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef in this recipe.
dry bread crumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs will provide a lighter and crispier texture to the meatballs compared to regular dry bread crumbs.
milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk will add a subtle tropical flavor and creaminess to the meatball mixture.
ground black pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: This will add a spicy kick to the meatballs, complementing the sweet flavors in the sauce.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a subtle sweetness to the meatballs.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed egg: A flaxseed egg can be used as a vegan alternative to regular eggs, binding the meatball mixture together.
shortening - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a healthier alternative to shortening for browning the meatballs.
chile sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha will add a spicy and tangy flavor to the sauce, enhancing the overall heat and flavor of the meatballs.
grape jelly - Substitute with apricot preserves: Apricot preserves will provide a similar sweet and fruity flavor to the sauce, complementing the spiciness of the meatballs.

Presenting Your Cocktail Meatballs in Style

Elevate the plating: Arrange the meatballs in a visually appealing manner on a sleek, modern plate. Consider using negative space to highlight the vibrant colors of the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a delicate assortment of parsley and chives over the meatballs to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
Choose the right serving vessel: Opt for a chic, minimalist serving dish that complements the modern aesthetic of the dish, such as a sleek slate platter or a contemporary ceramic bowl.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Consider serving the meatballs on a bed of silky mashed potatoes or alongside a crisp, vibrant arugula salad to create a harmonious balance of textures.
Add a touch of elegance with edible flowers: Introduce a touch of sophistication by delicately placing a few edible orchids or pansies around the dish for a subtle, yet luxurious, finishing touch.
Emphasize precision and symmetry: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring that the presentation exudes a sense of meticulous attention to detail and artful symmetry.
Consider the visual impact of the sauce: Drizzle the luscious chile and grape jelly sauce over the meatballs with precision, creating an eye-catching swirl or pattern to enhance the visual appeal of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Sweet and Spicy Cocktail Meatballs

Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, pureeing, and blending ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients, mixing batters, and preparing various recipes.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and a lid, used for making sauces, boiling liquids, and cooking small quantities of food.
Meatballer: A utensil designed to easily shape and form meatballs.

Storing and Freezing Your Sweet and Spicy Cocktail Meatballs

Let the meatballs cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or losing their shape.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled meatballs in an airtight container along with the sauce. They will keep for up to 4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freezing is the best option. Arrange the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they aren't touching each other. Place the sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the meatballs are frozen solid.
Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Pour the cooled sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are well-coated. Remove as much air as possible from the container or bag before sealing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, then place it in the freezer. The meatballs will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, thaw the meatballs and sauce in the refrigerator overnight. Place them in a saucepan or slow cooker and heat over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
If you want to freeze the meatballs without the sauce, simply follow the same freezing instructions but omit the sauce. When ready to serve, thaw the meatballs and prepare the sweet and spicy sauce fresh for the best flavor.

How To Reheat Leftover Cocktail Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover meatballs in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the meatballs from drying out.
For a quicker option, use your microwave. Place the meatballs in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through. Be sure to stir the meatballs halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you have leftover sauce as well, reheat it separately in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the sauce is heated through, add the meatballs and stir to coat them evenly. This method allows you to control the consistency of the sauce and prevents the meatballs from becoming soggy.
For a crispy exterior, reheat the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan and cook the meatballs, turning them occasionally, until they are heated through and the exterior is slightly crispy. This method works best if you have a small number of meatballs to reheat.
If you have a slow cooker, you can use it to reheat your meatballs. Place the meatballs and any leftover sauce in the slow cooker and heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until the meatballs are heated through. This method is ideal if you need to keep the meatballs warm for an extended period, such as during a party or potluck.

Interesting Trivia About Sweet and Spicy Cocktail Meatballs

The cocktail meatballs recipe is a popular party dish that originated in the 1950s. It's said that the combination of grape jelly and chile sauce was created during that time as a way to add a sweet and spicy flavor to meatballs. This unique combination has since become a classic and beloved addition to many meatball recipes.

Is Making Sweet and Spicy Cocktail Meatballs at Home Cost-Effective?

This sweet and spicy cocktail meatballs recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the recipe makes a substantial amount of meatballs, making it suitable for a family meal or a gathering. The ground beef and pantry staples are budget-friendly, and the addition of grape jelly and chile sauce adds a unique twist without breaking the bank. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious flavor. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15, making it a budget-friendly option for a satisfying meal.

Are Sweet and Spicy Cocktail Meatballs Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for sweet and spicy cocktail meatballs is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The meatballs are made with ground beef, which is high in saturated fat and calories.
The recipe calls for frying the meatballs in shortening, adding even more unhealthy fats.
The sauce is made with a significant amount of grape jelly, which is high in sugar and calories.
The recipe lacks vegetables or other nutrient-dense ingredients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce the saturated fat content.
Bake the meatballs in the oven instead of frying them in shortening to cut down on unhealthy fats.
Reduce the amount of grape jelly in the sauce and replace some of it with a low-sugar alternative like sugar-free apricot preserves or fresh fruit puree.
Add some finely chopped or grated vegetables to the meatball mixture, such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers, to increase the nutrient content and fiber.
Serve the meatballs with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Cocktail Meatball Recipe

The sweet and spicy cocktail meatballs recipe is a delightful combination of flavors. The blend of chile sauce and grape jelly creates a unique and tantalizing sauce that perfectly complements the savory meatballs. The addition of Worcestershire sauce and fresh parsley adds depth to the flavor profile, making this dish a standout appetizer or main course. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it a great option for entertaining. Overall, these meatballs are a delectable balance of sweet and spicy, sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Enhance Your Sweet and Spicy Cocktail Meatballs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with melted butter.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables, drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with fresh herbs.

Fruit Salad: Refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits, tossed in a light honey-lime dressing.

Tomato Soup: Homemade tomato soup with a touch of basil, served with a dollop of creamy mascarpone cheese.

Delicious Alternatives to Sweet and Spicy Cocktail Meatballs

Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: This dish combines succulent shrimp with a spicy garlic sauce, served over a bed of al dente pasta for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Honey Sriracha Chicken Wings: These crispy chicken wings are coated in a sweet and spicy honey sriracha glaze, perfect for game day or any gathering with friends and family.

Mango Salsa Chicken Tacos: Juicy grilled chicken topped with a refreshing mango salsa, wrapped in warm tortillas for a tropical twist on traditional tacos.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A comforting and velvety soup made with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream, perfect for a cozy night in during the colder months.

Berry Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream: A warm and gooey berry cobbler topped with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, the perfect ending to any meal or special occasion.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Your Cocktail Meatballs

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Create a mouthwatering grilled salmon dish with a zesty lemon and herb marinade. The flavors of the marinade infuse the salmon, resulting in a delicious and tender main course that is perfect for any occasion.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Impress your guests with flavorful stuffed bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices. The peppers are baked to perfection, creating a hearty and satisfying main course that is sure to be a hit.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of apple crisp, with tender baked apples, a crispy oat topping, and a hint of cinnamon. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.

Why trust this Sweet and Spicy Cocktail Meatballs Recipe:

This recipe is a tried and true favorite, guaranteed to impress at any gathering. The combination of savory ground beef and the sweet heat of chile sauce and grape jelly creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds craving more. The use of Worcestershire sauce and fresh parsley adds depth and complexity to the dish, while the careful browning of the meatballs ensures a perfect texture. Trust the rave reviews from countless satisfied guests and indulge in these irresistible cocktail meatballs.

Want to share your own cocktail meatball creations or discuss this Sweet and Spicy Cocktail Meatballs Recipe further? Join the conversation in our Recipe Sharing forum section!

FAQ:

What can I use as a substitute for grape jelly?

You can use other types of jelly or preserves such as apricot, peach, or even cranberry jelly as a substitute for grape jelly.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them?

Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them. Simply place the shaped meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator before browning and simmering in the sauce.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that ground turkey may require a little extra seasoning for flavor.

How spicy are the meatballs with the chile sauce?

The spiciness of the meatballs can be adjusted by using a milder or spicier chile sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for a mild chile sauce, and if you like it spicier, choose a hot chile sauce.

Can I serve these meatballs as an appetizer?

Yes, these sweet and spicy cocktail meatballs are perfect for serving as an appetizer. Simply spear each meatball with a toothpick for easy and mess-free snacking.