Cocktail Meatballs Recipe

If you’re a fan of bite-sized, savory delights that pack a flavor punch, you’re in for a treat! Learn how to make the most irresistible Cocktail Meatballs. These little gems are perfect for any gathering, offering a delightful combination of savory meat, tangy sauce, and the perfect hint of sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Tasty Appetizer

• Quick . Ready in under 30 minutes, these Cocktail Meatballs are the ultimate speedy party snack.
• Easy . Simply mix, roll, and bake – creating a delicious appetizer has never been easier.
• Versatile . Customize the sauce to your liking, from sweet and tangy to spicy and bold.
• Addictive . Packed with flavor that will keep your guests coming back for more.

With the simplicity of this recipe, you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that will elevate your hosting game. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these Cocktail Meatballs are guaranteed to be the star of the show.

What Not To Do When Making Meatballs

Making the perfect meatball can be an art, and while the process is relatively straightforward, there are some common mistakes that can hinder the final result. Here’s a guide on what not to do when making meatballs to ensure your next batch is a culinary success.

• Overmixing the Meat Mixture . Resist the temptation to overmix the ground meat mixture. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough texture. Mix the ingredients until just combined for a tender result.
• Using the Wrong Meat-to-Fat Ratio . While lean meat is a healthier choice, too little fat can result in dry meatballs. On the other hand, too much fat can lead to greasy meatballs. Aim for a balanced meat-to-fat ratio for optimal flavor and texture.
• Skipping the Searing Step . Don’t skip searing your meatballs before simmering or baking. Searing adds a caramelized crust, enhancing flavor and texture. It also helps the meatballs hold their shape during cooking.
• Making Meatballs Too Large . Giant meatballs may look impressive, but they can be challenging to cook evenly. Opt for smaller, bite-sized meatballs for a more consistent result.
• Overcrowding the Pan . When searing meatballs, avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and prevent a proper sear. Work in batches to ensure each meatball gets the attention it deserves.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Ground Beef - The main protein source for the meatballs. Ground beef provides a rich and savory flavor.
• Breadcrumbs- Act as a binding agent, helping to hold the meatball mixture together and providing a desirable texture.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese- Adds a depth of flavor and a subtle nuttiness to the meatballs. It also contributes to the binding of the ingredients.
• Milk- Adds moisture to the meatball mixture, ensuring the final product is tender and not overly dry.
• Onion- Provides a savory and aromatic base flavor for the meatballs.
• Garlic- Enhances the overall savory profile of the meatballs, adding a robust and aromatic element.
• Egg- Acts as a binder, helping to hold the meatball mixture together during baking.
• Salt and Black Pepper - Salt enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, while black pepper adds a hint of spiciness.
• Oregano, Basil, and Parsley- These dried herbs contribute to the overall flavor profile, providing a hint of Italian-inspired seasoning.
• Olive Oil- Used to prevent the meatballs from sticking to the baking sheet during cooking, ensuring they brown evenly.
• Grape Jelly - The main ingredient for the sweet and sticky sauce. Grape jelly adds a delightful sweetness to the meatball glaze.
• Ketchup- Adds a tangy and savory element to the sauce, balancing the sweetness of the grape jelly.
• Worcestershire Sauce- Contributes a savory and umami flavor to the sauce, enhancing its depth.
• Soy Sauce- Adds saltiness and an additional layer of savory flavor to the sauce.
• Dijon Mustard- Provides a tangy and slightly spicy kick to the sauce, complementing the sweet elements.
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder - These powders enhance the overall flavor of the sauce, adding depth and complexity.

How To Make Cocktail Meatballs

1. Prepare the Meatballs. In a bowl, combine ground meat, bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into bite-sized meatballs.
2. Bake to Perfection. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven until browned and cooked through.
3. Make the Sauce. In a saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, and additional seasonings if desired. Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly.
4. Coat and Serve. Once the meatballs are cooked, toss them in the sauce until evenly coated. Skewer each meatball with a toothpick for easy serving.
5. Garnish and Enjoy. Transfer the saucy meatballs to a serving platter, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color, and watch them disappear.

What To Put In Meatballs So They Don’t Fall Apart

Creating meatballs that hold their shape and maintain a moist, tender texture can be achieved with the right ingredients and techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your meatballs stay intact:

• Add Moisture with Bread or Breadcrumbs . To prevent dryness, incorporate breadcrumbs or torn bread soaked in milk into the meat mixture. This not only adds moisture but also helps bind the ingredients together.
• Eggs as Binders . Eggs act as binders in meatballs. Use beaten eggs in your mixture to help hold the ingredients together. Generally, one or two eggs per pound of meat is a good guideline.
• Handle Gently . When shaping meatballs, handle the mixture gently. Overworking the meat can make it tough. Use a light touch when forming the balls, and don’t compact them too much.
• Chill the Mixture . Refrigerating the meat mixture for 30 minutes to an hour before shaping can make it easier to handle. Chilled meat is firmer and less sticky, allowing you to shape the meatballs more effectively.

Tips And Tricks

Making Cocktail Meatballs is a breeze, but a few tips can take them from good to exceptional:

• Prep Ahead . Prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
• Double the Sauce . If you love saucy meatballs, consider doubling the sauce recipe for an extra flavor kick.
• Keep Warm . Serve the meatballs in a slow cooker set to the “warm” setting to keep them hot throughout your gathering.

Variations

Customize your Cocktail Meatballs with these creative variations:

• Sweet and Spicy - Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce for a kick.
• Asian-Inspired - Swap out the Worcestershire sauce for hoisin and add ginger for an Asian twist.
• BBQ Glazed - Use your favorite barbecue sauce for a classic BBQ flavor.

What To Serve With Cocktail Meatballs

Cocktail Meatballs are incredibly versatile and pair well with various sides:

• Cheese Platter - A selection of cheeses and crackers complements the savory meatballs.
• Vegetable Crudité - Fresh veggies with a dipping sauce add a refreshing element.
• Crostini - Toasted bread slices are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

How Long Do They Last?

Cocktail Meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for the best taste and texture.

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes, you can freeze Cocktail Meatballs for up to 2 months. Store in an airtight container, and when ready to serve, reheat in the oven or a slow cooker.

More Amazing Meatball Recipes

• Meatball Casserole
• Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
• Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs
• Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs
• Air Fryer Meatballs
• Meatballs and Gravy
• Porcupine Meatballs

Cocktail Meatballs Recipe | Grape Jelly Meatballs

Ingredients

For The Meatballs

• ▢ 1 1/2 pounds Ground Beef
• ▢ 1 cup Bread Crumbs
• ▢ 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese , grated
• ▢ 1/4 cup Milk
• ▢ 1/2 cup Onion , finely chopped
• ▢ 2 cloves Garlic
• ▢ 1 Egg
• ▢ 1 tsp Kosher Salt
• ▢ 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• ▢ 1 tsp Oregano , dried
• ▢ 1 tsp Basil , dried
• ▢ 1 tbsp Parsley , chopped
• ▢ 1 tbsp Olive Oil

For The Sauce

• ▢ 1 cup Grape Jelly
• ▢ 1/2 cup Ketchup
• ▢ 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• ▢ 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
• ▢ 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
• ▢ 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• ▢ 1/2 tsp Onion Powder

Instructions

• Prepare the Meatballs. In a bowl, combine ground meat, bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into bite-sized meatballs.
• Bake to Perfection. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven until browned and cooked through.
• Make the Sauce. In a saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, and additional seasonings if desired. Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly.
• Coat and Serve. Once the meatballs are cooked, toss them in the sauce until evenly coated. Skewer each meatball with a toothpick for easy serving.
• Garnish and Enjoy. Transfer the saucy meatballs to a serving platter, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color, and watch them disappear.

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Cocktail Meatballs Recipe | Grape Jelly Meatballs

Ingredients

For The Meatballs

• 1 1/2 pounds Ground Beef
• 1 cup Bread Crumbs
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
• 1/4 cup Milk
• 1/2 cup Onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 1 Egg
• 1 tsp Kosher Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tsp Oregano dried
• 1 tsp Basil dried
• 1 tbsp Parsley chopped
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil

For The Sauce

• 1 cup Grape Jelly
• 1/2 cup Ketchup
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp Onion Powder

Instructions

• Prepare the Meatballs. In a bowl, combine ground meat, bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into bite-sized meatballs.
• Bake to Perfection. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven until browned and cooked through.
• Make the Sauce. In a saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, and additional seasonings if desired. Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly.
• Coat and Serve. Once the meatballs are cooked, toss them in the sauce until evenly coated. Skewer each meatball with a toothpick for easy serving.
• Garnish and Enjoy. Transfer the saucy meatballs to a serving platter, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color, and watch them disappear.

Cocktail Meatballs Recipe | Grape Jelly Meatballs https://twosleevers.com/cocktail-meatballs-recipe/

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that combines the tangy zest of dill pickles with the comfort of a warm, creamy soup? Our Instant Pot Dill Pickle Soup recipe is here to tickle your taste buds in ways you never imagined.

Why You’ll Love This Unique Soup

• Irresistible Flavor . This soup boasts a delightful balance of flavors. The tanginess of dill pickles harmonizes with the creaminess of the soup base, creating an irresistible combination.
• Instant Pot Magic . Using the Instant Pot makes this soup incredibly quick and hassle-free. It’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners or cozy weekend lunches.
• Comfort Food Upgrade . Dill pickle soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds, especially on chilly days.

Whether you’re a pickle lover or simply looking to try something uniquely delicious, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Where Does Dill Pickle Soup Come From?

Dill pickle soup is a comfort food in Poland and is especially popular during the colder months. It’s known for its unique flavor profile, combining the sourness of the pickles with the earthiness of potatoes and the aromatic quality of dill.

While it may seem unusual to those not familiar with Eastern European cuisine, it has a dedicated following among those who appreciate its distinctive taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Vegetable Broth- This forms the flavorful liquid base of the soup, providing a savory foundation and depth of flavor.
• Celery- Imparts a mild, earthy flavor and adds a pleasant crunch to the soup.
• Onion- Bring a savory, aromatic quality to the soup and are a fundamental flavor base in many soups.
• Dill Pickles- The star of the show, providing the distinctive tangy flavor and texture that makes this soup unique.
• Unsalted Butter- Used for sautéing the vegetables at the beginning of the cooking process, adding richness and depth of flavor.
• Heavy Cream- It thickens the soup and helps achieve a creamy consistency.
• Dill Pickle Juice- A crucial ingredient that enhances the soup’s pickle flavor and tanginess. It also contributes to the soup’s overall liquid content.
• Sour Cream- Adds creaminess and a pleasant tang to the soup, enhancing the dill pickle flavor.
• Garlic- Infuse the soup with a delightful aromatic kick and add depth of flavor.
• Dried Dill Weed- Provides additional dill flavor and complements the natural flavors of the pickles.
• Salt and Pepper- Used to adjust the soup’s flavor to your preference, enhancing its overall taste.
• Fresh Dill- A garnish to add a burst of fresh dill flavor and a touch of elegance to each serving.

How To Make Dill Pickle Soup

1. Prepare Your Ingredients . Start by gathering all the ingredients and preparing your vegetables. Chop the celery, onions, and dill pickles. Mince the garlic, and measure out the remaining ingredients.
2. Sauté the Vegetables . Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode. Melt the butter and add the onions, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Add Pickles . Stir in the diced potatoes and chopped dill pickles. Continue sautéing for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Pour in Broth and Pickle Juice . Gradually pour in the vegetable broth. Then, add the dill pickle juice. Mix everything together.
5. Pressure Cook . Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Cancel the “Sauté” mode and select the “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”) mode. Set the timer for 5 minutes on HIGH pressure.
6. Quick Release . Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick pressure release by carefully turning the valve to “Venting” to release the pressure.
7. Add Creamy Goodness . Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until well combined. This will make your soup extra creamy.
8. Season and Serve . Season your dill pickle soup with dried dill weed, salt, and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh dill if desired.

Tips And Tricks

Making dill pickle soup in an Instant Pot can be a convenient and time-saving way to prepare this delicious dish. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure it turns out perfectly:

• Choose the Right Pickles . Select high-quality dill pickles with a strong and tangy flavor. The pickles are a key ingredient, so their taste matters.
• Sauté the Aromatics . Sauté the onions and garlic in the Instant Pot using the sauté function before adding other ingredients. This helps enhance their flavors.
• Incorporate Sour Cream Carefully . Sour cream adds creaminess and tanginess to the soup. Mix it with a small amount of hot soup separately before adding it to the pot to prevent curdling.

Variations

Dill pickle soup is a delicious and unique dish, and there are several variations you can try to tailor it to your taste. Here are some variations and additions to consider when making Instant Pot dill pickle soup:

• Vegetarian or Vegan Option - Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian. For a vegan version, replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative, like vegan butter or olive oil. Substitute dairy-free sour cream and milk as well.
• Smoked Meat or Bacon - If you enjoy smoky flavors, add some diced smoked sausage, ham, or bacon to the soup. Cook the meat first in the Instant Pot using the sauté function, then set it aside and proceed with the recipe. Add it back into the soup before serving.
• Potatoes Variations - Experiment with different types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, for slightly varied textures and flavors and a hearty meal.

What To Serve With Dill Pickle Soup

Dill pickle soup has a unique and tangy flavor that pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some delicious options to serve with it:

• Crusty Bread - A slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette is a classic choice. You can also toast the bread for extra crunch.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich - The classic grilled cheese sandwich is a comforting choice to serve alongside dill pickle soup. The combination of creamy soup and gooey cheese is delightful.
• Yogurt - A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt on top of the soup adds creaminess and balances the tanginess of the pickles.
• Fresh Dill - Garnish the soup with fresh dill sprigs or chopped dill for an extra burst of dill flavor and a touch of freshness.
• Latkes- Potato pancakes are a great choice, especially if you’re looking for a heartier accompaniment. They complement the soup’s potato and dill flavors.

How Long Does It Last?

Dill pickle soup, when stored properly, can last for a few days in the refrigerator.

Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before refrigerating it. Transfer the soup to an airtight container or cover the pot with an airtight lid.

Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can You Freeze It?

If you have leftover soup that you won’t consume within a few days, consider freezing it.

Ladle the soup into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Seal the containers or bags tightly to prevent freezer burn. Label each container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Frozen dill pickle soup can typically be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

More Instant Pot Soup Recipes

• Sauerkraut Soup
• Chicken Fajita Soup
• Caldo de Pollo
• Instant Pot Taco Soup
• Buffalo Chicken Soup
• African Peanut Soup
• Sopa de Palmito
• Cioppino

Dill Pickle Soup Recipe | Instant Pot Dill Pickle Soup

Ingredients

• ▢ 4 cups Vegetable Broth
• ▢ 2 stalks Celery , chopped
• ▢ 1 Onion , diced
• ▢ 1 1/2 cups Chopped Dill Pickles
• ▢ 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter
• ▢ 1 cup Heavy Cream
• ▢ 1/2 cup Dill Pickle Juice
• ▢ 1/2 cup Sour Cream
• ▢ 3 cloves Garlic , minced
• ▢ 1 tsp Dried Dill Weed
• ▢ 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
• ▢ 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• ▢ Fresh Dill , for garnish

Instructions

• Prepare Your Ingredients . Start by gathering all the ingredients and preparing your vegetables. Chop the celery, onions, and dill pickles. Mince the garlic, and measure out the remaining ingredients.
• Sauté the Vegetables . Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode. Melt the butter and add the onions, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
• Add Pickles . Stir in the diced potatoes and chopped dill pickles. Continue sautéing for an additional 2 minutes.
• Pour in Broth and Pickle Juice . Gradually pour in the vegetable broth. Then, add the dill pickle juice. Mix everything together.
• Pressure Cook . Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Cancel the “Sauté” mode and select the “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”) mode. Set the timer for 5 minutes on HIGH pressure.
• Quick Release . Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick pressure release by carefully turning the valve to “Venting” to release the pressure.
• Add Creamy Goodness . Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until well combined. This will make your soup extra creamy.
• Season and Serve . Season your dill pickle soup with dried dill weed, salt, and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh dill if desired.

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Don’t forget to check out my otherBest-selling Instant Pot Cookbooks!

Indian Instant Pot , Keto Instant Pot, Instant Pot Fast and Easy , Healthy Instant Pot & Vegetarian Instant Pot .