Instead of the traditional meal of spaghetti and meatballs, create something a little different. Below are two different recipes for cocktail meatballs.
We were all very happy with the results. The kiddos favored the Cranberry-Peach BBQ, and the adults liked both sauces, but the Brown Sugar, Maple, and Bourbon was the definite favorite!
Cocktail meatballs can be served as an appetizer, in a sandwich, or as a meal with vegetables and rice. You can cook them on the stove or let them simmer all day in your slow cooker so you don't heat up the kitchen! Instead of meatballs, you can also substitute sliced kielbasa.
Brown Sugar, Maple & Bourbon Cocktail Meatballs
- 1 cup ketchup
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¾ cup bourbon
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 Tablespoon cider vinegar
- Pinch crushed red pepper
- 2 pounds homemade or frozen small meatballs
Cranberry-Pineapple BBQ Cocktail Meatballs
- 1 can jellied cranberry sauce
- 1 cup BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup pineapple tidbits
- ¼ cup pineapple juice from tidbits
- 2 pounds homemade or frozen small meatballs
Instructions for both types:
- Combine all ingredients, except meatballs, in a medium saucepan and bring to a simmer, stirring often.
- Add meatballs and stir until well-coated.
- Return sauce to simmer.
- Cover, reduce heat, and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot.
Instead of cooking on the stove, you can stir together all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4-8 hours.
