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Cocktail Meatballs 2 Ways

Brown Sugar, Maple & Bourbon and Cranberry-Pineapple BBQ

By Heather Wirtz, Managing Editor of Macaroni Kid EATS January 31, 2013
After preparing some homemade meatballs, we decided instead of the traditional meal of pasta and meatballs...we wanted to create something different. We were all very happy with the results, the kiddos favored the Cranberry-Pineapple BBQ and the adults liked both sauces, but the Brown Sugar, Maple & Bourbon was the definite favorite!

Cocktail meatballs can be served as an appetizer, in a sandwich or as a meal with vegetables and rice.  

Brown Sugar, Maple & Bourbon Cocktail Meatballs
 
Ingredients:
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 3/4 cup bourbon
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 tbsp cider vinegar
  • pinch crushed red pepper
  • 2 lbs homemade or frozen small meatballs
 
 
Cranberry-Pineapple BBQ Cocktail Meatballs
 
Ingredients:
  • 1 can jellied cranberry sauce
  • 1 cup BBQ Sauce
  • 1 cup pineapple tidbits
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice from tidbits
  • 2 lbs homemade or frozen small meatballs
 
Instructions for both types:
  1. Combine all ingredients, except meatballs, in a medium sauce pan and bring to a simmer, stirring often.
  2. Add meatballs and stir until well coated.
  3. Return sauce to simmer.
  4. Cover, reduce heat and cook for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally.
  5. Serve hot.

*Sliced kielbasa or mini hot dogs can be substituted for the meatballs in this recipe.

Brown Sugar, Maple & Bourbon Cocktail Meatballs

Cranberry-Pineapple BBQ Cocktail Meatballs

For more great recipe ideas, check out our Macaroni EATS website at http://eats.macaronikid.com/