Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs

Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs are a sweet-and-savory appetizer that perfectly balances tangy cranberry flavors with juicy, tender meatballs. Inspired by the famous cranberries of the Cape Cod region, this dish is a crowd-pleasing favorite at holiday parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. The glossy sauce clings beautifully to each meatball, making every bite rich and satisfying.

Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs:

Simple to prepare yet impressive to serve, these cocktail meatballs are ideal for busy hosts. Whether simmered on the stovetop or kept warm in a slow cooker, they deliver bold flavor with minimal effort, making them a timeless party staple.

History:

Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs draw inspiration from New England cuisine, particularly Cape Cod’s long-standing association with cranberries. As cranberry sauce became a popular pantry staple in American homes during the mid-20th century, cooks began pairing it with savory dishes. Combining cranberry sauce with meatballs and chili sauce quickly became a festive favorite, especially during holidays and cocktail parties.

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Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs

Shruthi

Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs feature tender meatballs in a cranberry-based sauce.They offer a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.This recipe is easy, quick, and ideal for entertaining.Perfect for holidays, parties, and potluck gatherings.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, party snacks

Cuisine American, New England–Inspired

Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 kg (2 lbs) frozen or homemade meatballs
• 1 can (400 g) whole cranberry sauce
• 1 cup chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

 

• In a large saucepan or slow cooker, add cranberry sauce and chili sauce.
• Stir in brown sugar, lemon juice, and black pepper until well combined.
• Add meatballs and gently coat them with the sauce.
• Simmer on low heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Serve warm with toothpicks for easy snacking.

Notes

• Frozen meatballs save time and work perfectly in this recipe.
• Sauce thickens as it simmers.
• Stir gently to avoid breaking meatballs.
• Flavor improves if rested for 10 minutes before serving.
• Can be made a day ahead and reheated

Keyword Cape Cod meatballs, cranberry cocktail meatballs, holiday appetizers, party meatballs, sweet and savory meatballs

Tips for Cod Cocktail Meatballs:

• Use homemade meatballs for extra flavor.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat.
• Keep warm in a slow cooker for parties.
• Serve with small skewers or toothpicks.
• Double the recipe easily for larger gatherings.

FAQs for Cod Cocktail Meatballs:

Q1: Can I use grape jelly instead of cranberry sauce?
Yes, but cranberry sauce gives the authentic Cape Cod flavor.

Q2: Can these meatballs be made in a slow cooker?
Absolutely, cook on low for 3–4 hours.

Q3: Are Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs spicy?
They are mildly tangy, not spicy, unless heat is added.

Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Q5: What meat works best for the meatballs?
Beef, pork, or a beef-pork blend works well.

Conclusion:

Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs are a perfect blend of tradition and convenience. With their glossy cranberry sauce and tender texture, they bring festive flavor to any occasion. Easy, reliable, and delicious, they are guaranteed to disappear fast at any party.