These Apricot BBQ Cocktail Meatballs are a tasty mix of sweet and savory, perfect for any party! Juicy meatballs are coated in a tasty apricot BBQ sauce that has everyone coming back for more.
Honestly, what’s not to love? They’re easy to make and a hit with guests. I make sure to keep some extras in a hidden spot, just in case I need a late-night snack! 🤫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives the meatballs richness and flavor. You can use a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor. For a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken!
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs. Use regular or whole wheat breadcrumbs. If gluten-free, try crushed gluten-free crackers or oats!
Apricot Preserves: This is the star! It adds sweetness and tang. If apricots are hard to find, peach or mango preserves can work well too.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce for the perfect flavor. For a spicier kick, consider spicy BBQ sauce or add some hot sauce.
How Can I Keep My Meatballs Juicy?
You want juicy meatballs, so it’s all in the mixing and baking! Be gentle when combining the ingredients; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix the meat and ingredients just until combined; don’t overwork.
- Shape the meatballs gently; a light touch keeps them tender.
- Bake at a moderate temperature (375°F) so they cook evenly without drying out.
What’s the Best Way to Coat Meatballs in Sauce?
Coating meatballs in the sauce is key for flavor. After baking, transfer them straight to the warm sauce. Gently toss them to coat evenly. Avoid rough mixing to keep them intact!
Apricot BBQ Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup apricot preserves (apricot jam)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, totaling around 45 minutes. Perfect for a quick 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 give it a light greasing to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and if using, smoked paprika. Gently mix everything together until it’s well combined, but be careful not to overmix.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Take small portions of the meat mixture and roll them into bite-sized meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have space in between for even cooking.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and lightly browned on the outside. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, grab a medium saucepan. Combine the apricot preserves, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce in the pan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture is smooth and warmed through.
6. Coat the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are finished baking, carefully transfer them to the saucepan with the sauce. Gently stir to coat each meatball evenly with the sweet and tangy sauce.
7. Simmer for Flavor:
Let the coated meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together and thicken the sauce slightly.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the meatballs to a lovely serving bowl or platter. If you’d like, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
9. Enjoy:
Serve these meatballs warm, ideally with toothpicks for easy cocktail-style serving. Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors—your guests will love them!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey can dry out more easily, so be sure not to overbake the meatballs.
How Can I Make These Meatballs Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the meatball mixture. You can also opt for a spicy BBQ sauce for the coating!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the meatballs and freeze them uncooked for up to 3 months. Just freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
