Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs
Festive, tangy, and sweet with a savory bite—these Cape Cod cocktail meatballs bring cranberry country flavor straight to your table. Perfect for holiday parties or cozy get-togethers, they simmer in a mouthwatering sauce made with jellied cranberry, ketchup, and brown sugar. Make them once, and they’ll become your signature party appetizer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these meatballs ready in no time.
- Flavorful Combination – The tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with the savory meatballs for a delightful taste experience.
- Versatile Serving Options – Serve them warm as an appetizer or cool them for a picnic; they’re great either way!
- Crowd-Pleasing Dish – These meatballs are sure to impress guests at any gathering, making them a must-have on your menu.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare in advance and store them; just heat before serving for easy entertaining.
Tools and Preparation
To make Cape Cod cocktail meatballs, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Large mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Slow cooker or large pot
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet – Essential for evenly cooking the meatballs and achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior.
- Large mixing bowl – Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.
- Saucepan – Ideal for easily mixing and heating the sauce to bring out its flavors.
- Slow cooker or large pot – Allows for simmering the meatballs in sauce, enhancing their taste.

Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp grated onion
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
For the Sauce
- 1 (16 oz) can jellied cranberry sauce
- 1½ cups ketchup
- 2½ tbsp packed brown sugar
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
How to Make Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the meatballs until they are golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add the ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, chopped parsley, grated onion, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are integrated evenly.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs. Aim for about 40 total meatballs to serve a crowd.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Place the shaped meatballs on a baking sheet:
1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are browned and cooked through.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
While the meatballs are baking:
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine jellied cranberry sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Stir until smooth and bubbling; this creates a deliciously tangy sauce.
Step 6: Combine Meatballs and Sauce
Once baked:
1. Transfer the meatballs to a slow cooker or large pot.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over them.
3. Simmer together for 20–30 minutes to meld flavors beautifully.
Step 7: Serve Your Meatballs
Serve warm with toothpicks for easy entertaining. These Cape Cod cocktail meatballs will be a hit at any gathering!
How to Serve Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs
Serving Cape Cod cocktail meatballs can elevate any gathering, making it festive and delicious. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy these tasty bites.
On a Platter
- Arrange the meatballs on a large serving platter, drizzling the sauce over them for a colorful display. Garnish with fresh parsley for added appeal.
With Toothpicks
- Serve meatballs with toothpicks for easy grabbing. This makes them perfect for casual gatherings and ensures guests can enjoy them without fuss.
In Mini Buns
- Place meatballs in small slider buns for a fun twist. Add a dollop of extra sauce, and you have delightful mini sandwiches that are sure to please.
As Part of a Charcuterie Board
- Include Cape Cod cocktail meatballs on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, crackers, and fruits. The tangy flavor will complement other savory snacks beautifully.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- For a heartier meal, serve the meatballs over fluffy rice or quinoa. Spoon some of the sauce over the top to soak in additional flavor.
How to Perfect Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs
To make your Cape Cod cocktail meatballs even better, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Choose Quality Beef: Using high-quality ground beef will improve the taste and moisture of your meatballs.
- Chill Before Baking: Allowing the meatballs to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking helps them hold their shape.
- Mix Gently: Combine ingredients just until blended; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before cooking and adjust seasonings according to your preference.
- Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to try different sauces like barbecue or sweet-and-sour for unique flavor profiles.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them uncooked. Just bake from frozen when you need them!
Best Side Dishes for Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs
Pairing side dishes with Cape Cod cocktail meatballs can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the savory flavors of the meatballs beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition to your plate.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the rich taste of the meatballs.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing provides a light yet satisfying side.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs pairs well with the tangy sauce from the cocktail meatballs.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins bring a delightful texture and sweetness that balances out savory flavors nicely.
- Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans steamed until tender add both color and health benefits to your meal.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the dish perfectly while providing essential nutrients.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cape Cod cocktail meatballs, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the egg – Eggs help bind the meatballs together. Without them, your meatballs may fall apart during cooking.
- Ignoring seasoning – Under-seasoning can lead to bland meatballs. Make sure to taste your mixture before baking and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Overcooking the meatballs – Cooking them too long can result in a dry texture. Bake until just browned and cooked through for a juicy bite.
- Not simmering in sauce – Skipping the simmering step means missing out on flavor enhancement. Allowing them to soak in the sauce melds all flavors beautifully.
- Using low-quality ingredients – Cheap ingredients can impact taste and texture. Invest in good quality beef and fresh herbs for better flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Cape Cod cocktail meatballs in an airtight container.
- They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs
- Place cooled meatballs in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat meatballs in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel for 1-2 minutes or until heated thoroughly.
- Stovetop – Simmer them in sauce over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best ground meat for Cape Cod cocktail meatballs?
Ground beef is commonly used, but you can also substitute turkey or lamb for different flavors.
Can I use homemade cranberry sauce instead of jellied?
Yes! Homemade cranberry sauce adds a fresh twist, but ensure it’s smooth enough to blend well with other ingredients.
How do I make Cape Cod cocktail meatballs gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread crumbs or oats as a binder instead of traditional bread crumbs.
Can I prepare these cocktail meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix and shape the meatballs a day ahead and store them in the fridge until ready to bake.
Are Cape Cod cocktail meatballs spicy?
No, this recipe is not spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat!
Final Thoughts
Cape Cod cocktail meatballs are a delightful addition to any gathering, offering sweetness combined with savory flavors. They’re versatile, making them suitable for parties or casual dinners. Feel free to customize by incorporating different herbs or spices based on your tastes!
Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs
Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs are a festive and flavorful addition to your next gathering. These savory beef bites are enveloped in a tangy sauce made with jellied cranberry, ketchup, and brown sugar, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory. Perfect for holiday parties or casual get-togethers, they are not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough to serve warm as an appetizer or cool for a picnic. With easy preparation and make-ahead options, these meatballs will quickly become your go-to party dish!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp grated onion
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- 1 (16 oz) can jellied cranberry sauce
- 1½ cups ketchup
- 2½ tbsp packed brown sugar
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, parsley, grated onion, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Mix until blended.
- Shape the mixture into approximately 40 bite-sized meatballs.
- Place meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
- While baking, prepare the sauce by heating cranberry sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat until bubbling.
- Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to a slow cooker or large pot and pour the sauce over them. Simmer for 20–30 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve warm with toothpicks for easy enjoyment.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs (120g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 110mg