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Apple Cider Cocktail Meatballs

Apple Cider Cocktail Meatballs - featured image
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These Apple Cider Cocktail Meatballs combine sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors, making them a perfect addition to any fall party spread or cozy meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated but avoid overmixing.
  3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. You should get about 24-28 meatballs.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and golden brown.
  5. In a medium saucepan, whisk together apple cider, ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  6. Let the glaze simmer until it thickens slightly, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  7. Transfer the baked meatballs to the saucepan and toss them gently in the glaze until fully coated.
  8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Provide toothpicks for easy serving, or plate them over mashed potatoes for a meal.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Adjust the spice level by modifying the cayenne pepper. Make ahead by storing meatballs and sauce separately, then reheating and combining before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider, cocktail meatballs, fall recipe, party appetizer, sweet and tangy meatballs

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/apple-cider-cocktail-meatballs-recipe-perfect-for-fall-parties/