These juicy meatballs are packed with flavor and coated in a sweet-and-tangy apricot BBQ sauce! Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, they’re always a hit with everyone.
I love how easy these meatballs are to make! Just mix, roll, and let them simmer in that yummy apricot sauce. Trust me, you might need a second batch—everyone will want more! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: While I love a classic ground beef mix, you can switch it up with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want a richer taste, a blend of beef and pork works wonders.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs add texture. For a gluten-free option, try using crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs. I often use panko for extra crunch!
Apricot Preserves: Apricot preserves provide that sweet base. If you’re out, peach or mango jam makes a great substitute. Just adjust the sweetness to taste.
Barbecue Sauce: Opt for your favorite brand, but homemade BBQ sauce can elevate the flavors! You can also use a sugar-free version for a healthier twist.
How Do You Keep Meatballs Tender and Juicy?
Making tender meatballs is all about not overmixing your ingredients. After combining them, shape them quickly yet gently. Here are some steps to keep them juicy:
- Use lean ground meat but don’t go too lean; a bit of fat is essential for moisture.
- Add milk. It keeps the meat mixture moist, which leads to tender meatballs.
- Consider chilling the formed meatballs for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold together better.
Remember, less is more when mixing. Just blend until everything is combined for the best texture!
Apricot BBQ Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying, optional)
For the Apricot BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup apricot preserves or jam
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or oregano leaves
- Cocktail sticks or toothpicks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick, easy, and delicious appetizer!
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 or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, salt, black pepper, and milk. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined. Make sure not to overmix, as this will keep your meatballs tender.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.25 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet with some space between each one.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until they’re cooked through and lightly browned. If you prefer, you can also brown them in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, turning until brown on all sides, then finish cooking in the oven for an additional 5-8 minutes.
5. Prepare the Apricot BBQ Sauce:
While the meatballs are cooking, you can make the sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the apricot preserves, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the preserves melt and the sauce is smooth. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors together.
6. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the warm apricot BBQ sauce over them. Gently toss to ensure all the meatballs are evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Serve:
Arrange the glazed meatballs on a serving platter, and insert cocktail sticks into each one for easy serving. If you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley or oregano leaves.
8. Enjoy:
Serve these deliciously sweet and tangy Apricot BBQ Cocktail Meatballs warm as a delightful appetizer or party snack!
Enjoy your sweet and tangy Apricot BBQ Cocktail Meatballs!
Can I Freeze the Meatballs?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet for about an hour until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake them straight from frozen, adding about 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Type of BBQ Sauce Should I Use?
You can use your favorite barbecue sauce, whether it’s smoky, sweet, or tangy. For a unique twist, try a spicy BBQ sauce if you like a little heat, or opt for a homemade sauce for a personal touch!
How Long Do Leftover Meatballs Last?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through. If reheating in sauce, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Can I Make These Meatballs Gluten-Free?
Certainly! To make gluten-free meatballs, simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels of your sauce and preserves!