These tasty apricot BBQ cocktail meatballs are a fun and flavorful snack! Made with a sweet apricot sauce mixed with tangy BBQ, they are perfect for any gathering.
Who doesn’t love a dish that’s both sweet and savory? I always find myself sneaking a few before serving. They’re great for parties or a cozy evening on the couch! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: While I often use ground beef for its rich flavor, you can substitute half pork for a juicier meatball or go fully with turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be aware that leaner meats might require a bit more moisture.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs work best for binding, but you can swap them with crushed crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free version. I sometimes use panko for an extra crispy texture!
Apricot Preserves: If apricot isn’t your jam, you could try peach or mango preserves instead. It will change the flavor a bit but still be delicious! Just make sure they have a similar consistency for a good sauce.
Barbecue Sauce: A regular BBQ sauce is fine, but for a spicier kick, consider a chipotle or honey BBQ sauce. I love mixing sweet and spicy with a sriracha-infused barbecue sauce!
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Moist?
Keeping your meatballs moist is crucial! Here are some tips to make sure they are juicy:
- Combine ingredients gently—overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
- Don’t skip the milk; it adds moisture.
- Bake rather than fry, which helps keep them tender.
- If you’re worried about dryness, try adding a tablespoon of grated cheese into the meat mix.
Apricot BBQ Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Apricot BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup apricot preserves (apricot jam)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
For Garnish:
- Green onions or chives, thinly sliced
- Toothpicks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious option for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking or lightly grease it if you prefer.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or your choice of meat), breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, milk, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
With your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs that are about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t touching each other.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and browned on the outside. You can check if they’re done by cutting one in half; there should be no pink remaining.
5. Prepare the Apricot BBQ Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, make the apricot BBQ sauce. In a small saucepan, mix together the apricot preserves, barbecue sauce, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is warmed and slightly thickened, which takes about 5 minutes.
6. Combine and Toss:
When the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm apricot BBQ sauce over the meatballs and gently toss to ensure each meatball is well-coated with the sauce.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the sauced meatballs to a serving dish. Sprinkle the top with thinly sliced green onions or chives for a fresh touch. Insert toothpicks into each meatball for easy serving!
8. Enjoy:
Serve warm and enjoy these delicious, juicy apricot BBQ cocktail meatballs at your next gathering or as a tasty snack. They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that turkey meatballs can sometimes be drier, so consider adding a little extra moisture, like an additional tablespoon of milk, to keep them juicy.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag, so they don’t stick together!
What Can I Serve with These Meatballs?
These cocktail meatballs are perfect on their own with toothpicks, but they also pair well with rice, quinoa, or a side of roasted veggies for a heartier meal. You can even serve them in sliders or wraps for a tasty twist!
Can I Make These Meatballs in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the meatballs ahead of time! Shape them and freeze them uncooked. When you’re ready, just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. You can also cook them and store them in the sauce for reheating later!