Instructions:
Preparing the Meatballs:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley (if using). Mix everything together until well combined but try not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Form Meatballs: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each meatball.
- Bake: Put the meatballs in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
Preparing the Sauce:
- Combine Ingredients: While the meatballs are baking, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, honey (or maple syrup), soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and hot sauce (if using) in a saucepan.
- Simmer: Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it starts to simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
Finishing Up:
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Once the meatballs are done, you can either add them directly to the saucepan and toss to coat, or place the meatballs in a serving dish and pour the sauce over them.
- Serve Warm: Cocktail meatballs are best served warm. You can keep them in a slow cooker on the low setting to keep them warm throughout your event.
Tips:
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with the sauce by adding ingredients like pineapple juice for a Hawaiian twist or using cranberry sauce for a holiday version.
- Serving: Serve with toothpicks for easy eating and consider garnishing with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra touch.
Enjoy your delicious cocktail meatballs at your next gathering! They’re sure to be a hit.