Cocktail Meatballs: A Timeless Recipe
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: Approximately 60 meatballs
Category: Meat
Keywords: Cocktail meatballs, easy appetizers, party food, under 60 minutes
Description:
Although I have made a few modifications to this recipe over the years, the foundational essence remains unchanged from the way my mother prepared these delightful cocktail meatballs for family gatherings. Their rich flavor and savory glaze are hard to beat, and these tender morsels are sure to be a hit at any gathering, making them a nostalgic favorite and a staple in my home.
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1/2 cup | Milk |
| 1/4 cup | Ground beef |
| 1 tsp | Salt |
| 1 tsp | Accent seasoning |
| 1 | Onion (minced) |
| 1 | Flour |
| 1 tbsp | Margarine |
| 1 tbsp | Butter |
| 1/4 cup | Molasses |
| 1/4 cup | Vinegar |
| 1/4 cup | Catsup |
| 1/4 tsp | Tabasco sauce |
| 1/2 tsp | Marjoram |
Nutritional Information (per meatball)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 29.6 |
| Total Fat | 1.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 5.3 mg |
| Sodium | 67.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 2.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.1 g |
| Sugars | 1.1 g |
| Protein | 1.6 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, ground beef, salt, Accent seasoning, and minced onion. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly integrated, ensuring that the mixture is both moist and well-seasoned.
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Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the meat mixture and roll them into tiny meatballs, about one inch in diameter. This size allows them to cook evenly and makes them easy to pick up with toothpicks for serving.
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Coat and Brown: Roll each meatball in flour, ensuring they are lightly coated, which will aid in creating a nice, golden-brown crust when cooked. In a large skillet, heat the margarine and butter over medium heat, then add the meatballs, browning them on all sides. This step should take about 5 to 7 minutes, and be sure to turn them carefully to achieve an even browning.
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Create the Glaze: In a separate bowl, mix together the molasses, vinegar, catsup, Tabasco sauce, and marjoram. This tangy and slightly sweet mixture will become the glaze for the meatballs.
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Simmer and Glaze: Once the meatballs are browned, pour the glaze over them in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let the meatballs simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir gently a few times during this period to ensure that every meatball is coated in the delicious glaze and to prevent them from sticking to the pan.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the meatballs are glazed and heated through, transfer them to a serving platter. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them an excellent option for parties and gatherings. Pair them with toothpicks for easy serving, and watch as they disappear from the platter in no time!
These cocktail meatballs encapsulate not just a recipe, but a cherished family tradition that brings back memories of laughter and joy around the dinner table. Perfectly seasoned and coated in a rich glaze, they’re bound to become a favorite at your next event, just as they have in my family for years. Enjoy the delightful taste of nostalgia with each bite!
