Party meatballs are the no-fail appetizer that disappears from the buffet table in minutes. Tender, juicy bite-size meatballs are baked until golden, then tossed in a sticky sweet-and-tangy sauce that makes them irresistible.
These easy oven-baked party meatballs use simple ingredients and a three-ingredient sauce. They are a make ahead party meatballs recipe that works for New Year’s Eve, game day, holiday parties, and potlucks.
Recipe at a Glance
| Prep Time | 25 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 5 minutes |
| Servings | 16 servings (about 48 meatballs) |
| Category | Appetizer / Party Food |
Why You’ll Love These Party Meatballs
- Juicy, tender meatballs with great seasoning
- A sticky, sweet-and-tangy sauce with just 3 ingredients
- Baked in the oven, so no frying or splatter
- Easy to make ahead and keep warm in a slow cooker
- A crowd-pleaser for any party
Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the meatballs: 2 pounds ground beef (or half beef and half pork), ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 large eggs, ¼ cup milk, ¼ cup grated onion, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper
- For the sauce: 1 cup barbecue sauce, ¾ cup grape jelly, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Toothpicks and chopped parsley, for serving
How to Make Oven-Baked Party Meatballs
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Combine the panko and milk in a large bowl and let sit for 5 minutes, then add the eggs, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper and mix well.
- Add the ground beef and mix gently with your hands until just combined; do not overmix.
- Roll the mixture into about 48 meatballs (1 inch each) and place on the baking sheets.
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until browned and cooked through (160°F).
- Meanwhile, whisk the barbecue sauce, grape jelly, and Worcestershire in a large pot over medium heat until melted and smooth. Add the meatballs, toss to coat, and simmer for 10 minutes. Serve warm with toothpicks.
Tips for the Best Make-Ahead Party Meatballs
- Do not overmix the meat or the meatballs will be tough.
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized meatballs.
- Soak the panko in milk for the most tender texture.
- Keep them warm in a slow cooker on low for parties.
- Whisk the sauce until the jelly fully melts for a smooth glaze.
Variations to Try: Party Meatball Ideas
- Swap grape jelly for apricot preserves or cranberry sauce.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Make Italian meatballs with marinara and Parmesan instead.
How to Store It
Refrigerate leftover meatballs in the sauce in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a slow cooker on low or in the oven covered at 350°F. Freeze cooked meatballs in sauce for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make party meatballs ahead of time?
Yes. Bake the meatballs up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate, then simmer in the sauce before serving.
How do I keep party meatballs warm?
Keep them in a slow cooker on the warm or low setting, stirring occasionally.
Can I freeze party meatballs?
Yes. Freeze them cooked, with or without sauce, for up to 3 months.
What temperature should meatballs reach?
Ground beef meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
Easy Party Meatballs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line two baking sheets.
- Step 2: Soak the panko in the milk and mix in the eggs, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Step 3: Gently mix in the beef and roll into 1-inch meatballs.
- Tip: Do not overmix.
- Step 4: Bake 18 to 22 minutes until 160°F.
- Step 5: Whisk the sauce ingredients in a pot until smooth.
- Step 6: Add the meatballs and simmer 10 minutes.
- Tip: Keep warm in a slow cooker.
Notes
Freeze cooked meatballs for easy parties later.