Cape Cod cocktail meatballs are a delicious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, perfect for parties and gatherings. Inspired by the classic New England pairing of cranberry and meat, these bite-sized meatballs are simmered in a tangy cranberry-based sauce, making them an irresistible appetizer. The rich, juicy meatballs combined with the tartness of cranberry sauce and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar will have guests coming back for more. These meatballs are great for holiday get-togethers or any time you want to serve a unique and flavorful appetizer.
INGREDIENTS:
FOR THE MEATBALLS:
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? 1 lb ground beef
? 1/2 lb ground pork
? 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
? 1 egg, lightly beaten
? 1/4 cup milk
? 1 small onion, finely chopped
? 2 garlic cloves, minced
? 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
? 1 tsp salt
? 1/2 tsp black pepper
? 1/4 tsp allspice (optional)
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FOR THE SAUCE:
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? 1 can (14 oz) jellied cranberry sauce
? 1/2 cup ketchup
? 2 tbsp brown sugar
? 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
? 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
? 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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INSTRUCTIONS:
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1. Preheat the oven to 400¡ãF (200¡ãC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and allspice (if using).
Mix until just combined.
3. Roll the mixture into small, 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
4. While the meatballs are baking, make the sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon
mustard, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir over medium heat until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
5. Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the saucepan with the cranberry sauce. Gently toss the meatballs in the sauce, ensuring they are fully
coated.
6. Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve the Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs hot, either directly from the pan or on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking.
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These meatballs are perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or any time you want a crowd-pleasing appetizer with a New England twist!
