Bowtie Pasta and Cocktail Meatball Skewers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines classic party meatballs with a surprising yet delicious grape jelly glaze, balancing sweet and savory flavors. The addition of al dente bowtie pasta and fresh basil adds texture and freshness, making each bite satisfying and unique. They’re easy to assemble, visually appealing, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

20 frozen meatballs
½ cup ketchup
½ cup grape jelly
20 cooked bowtie pasta pieces (al dente)
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
20 fresh basil leaves
20 toothpicks or wooden skewers

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook frozen meatballs according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, combine ketchup and grape jelly. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the jelly melts and the sauce is smooth.
3. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the cooked bowtie pasta and toss gently to coat.
5. To assemble each bite, thread one meatball, one bowtie pasta piece, and one fresh basil leaf onto a toothpick or skewer.
6. Arrange the bites on a serving platter and drizzle any remaining grape jelly glaze over them if desired.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Serves about 4-6 as appetizers
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use homemade meatballs for added flavor and freshness.
• Substitute the grape jelly with apricot or cranberry jelly for a different twist.
• Add a small cube of cheese on the skewer for extra richness.
• Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Serve with a side of marinara for dipping.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving. Assemble fresh to keep pasta from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh homemade or store-bought meatballs work well.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking?

Toss cooked pasta with olive oil immediately after draining.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the grape jelly ketchup sauce can be made ahead and reheated.

What type of pasta works best?

Bowtie pasta is ideal for this recipe, but other small pasta shapes work too.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Check the meatballs and pasta labels for gluten-free options.

Can I prepare these bites fully in advance?

Assemble shortly before serving for the best texture and freshness.

Can I add herbs to the sauce?

Fresh basil or oregano can be stirred into the sauce for extra flavor.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in pasta.

How spicy is the grape jelly glaze?

The glaze is sweet and tangy; add chili flakes if you want heat.

Are toothpicks the best way to serve these?

Toothpicks or small wooden skewers work well for easy handling.

Conclusion

Meatball and Bowtie Pasta Bites with Grape Jelly Glaze offer a unique and tasty combination of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors in a convenient bite-sized appetizer. Easy to prepare and always a hit, these skewers are perfect for entertaining or casual snacking, bringing fun and flavor to any occasion.

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