Add deliciousness and charm to your soiree with these Bowtie Pasta and Cocktail Meatball Skewers. Savory, saucy meatballs, al dente pasta and sweet, fresh basil make these appetizers an instant hit.
Party Fancy Meets Everyday Easy
Confession time! I love serving party food that looks amazing but is deceptively easy to make. Zero fuss, maximum appeal. And these Bowtie Pasta and Cocktail Meatball Skewers certainly fit the bill. They look all dressed up in their bowtie best, but they require very little prep and just a few minutes to assemble. I am completely obsessed! They’re perfect for cocktail hour or pre-dinner appetizers. Everyone will love how yummy and charming they are! So cute!
Pre-made meatballs make these cuties super quick and easy to make. The sauce is so simple and incredibly savory you won’t believe it’s only two ingredients. And is there anything more straightforward than pasta? Nope. Easy peasy. I can’t wait to share them with you!
How to Make Bowtie Pasta and Cocktail Meatball Skewers
To make the skewers, first heat frozen meatballs according to package directions. Then, while the meatballs are heating, combine the ketchup and grape jelly in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir well and allow to come to a boil for 1 minute. Reduce heat to a simmer and stir in the heated meatballs. Let meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes to coat them well.
Cook pasta to al dente, drain, rinse with cold water and let dry. Then toss with olive oil.
To serve, place one bowtie pasta, one leaf of basil and one meatball onto each toothpick or skewer. Place upright on a serving tray. Tada! Aren’t they so handsome?
Want More Amazing Apps?
Got guests coming over? Why not try my Pimento Cheese Dip!. It’s easy to make and so savory and tangy, it’s sure to impress! Or this Grilled Brie with Strawberries that combines creamy cheese, sweet strawberries, and tangy balsamic vinegar in a delicious appetizer perfect for entertaining. For another take on a meatball appetizer, try these Meatball Stuffed Pasta Shells. They’re so tasty and popular!
I hope you get your fancy on with these Bowtie Pasta and Cocktail Meatball Skewers! If you make it and post a pic to social, be sure to tag me on Instagram @thebakermama so I can see! I just love seeing how inspired and creative y’all get with the ideas I share.
xoxo,
Bowtie Pasta and Cocktail Meatball Skewers
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 Skewers 1x
Description
Add deliciousness and charm to your soiree with these Bowtie Pasta and Cocktail Meatball Skewers. Savory, saucy meatballs, al dente pasta and sweet, fresh basil make these appetizers an instant hit.
Ingredients
- 20 frozen meatballs
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup grape jelly
- 20 al dente cooked bowtie pasta
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 20 leaves of fresh basil
- 20 toothpicks or wooden food skewers
Instructions
- Heat frozen meatballs according to package directions.
- While the meatballs are heating, combine the ketchup and grape jelly in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir well and allow to come to a boil for 1 minute. Reduce heat to a simmer and stir in the heated meatballs. Let meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes to coat them well.
- Cook pasta to al dente, drain, rinse with cold water and let dry. Toss with olive oil.
- To serve, place one bowtie pasta, one leaf of basil and one meatball onto each toothpick or skewer.
What size skewer did you use?
Hi Lori! I use these 3.5 inch appetizer forks: https://amzn.to/3N8jOg7. Enjoy!
What brand of meatballs would you recommend?
Hi Lisa! We really like the Cooked Perfect Homestyle Meatballs. Hope this helps. Enjoy!
If making these ahead, how did you keep the basil from turning black?
Hi Anne! If they’re made a few hours in advance, you can store them in the refrigerator and the basil should stay green. I wouldn’t recommend making them more than a few hours in advance. Enjoy!
are you serving these meatball appys warm
Hi Kathleen! No, they’re served at room temp. By the time you prep them with the fresh basil, the pasta and meatballs are room temp. They’re delicious and perfect for serving at a party. Hope this helps! Enjoy!
Any particular brand of grape jelly?
Can’t wait to try!
Hi Sandy! I usually use Welch’s, but you could certainly use your favorite brand. Enjoy!
Made these for our daughte’s engagement cocktail party and they were absolutely delicious and oh-so-festive. So easy and so good. Thanks for the
★★★★★
Oh My! I know I am way behind, but I just found your site. I have to tell you, the very 1st thing I thought of when I saw this, was how perfect for a BABY SHOWER/GENDER REVEAL. The theme “Bow Ties” or “Hair Bows” will not leave my head. These are sooo cute! Thanks a bunch.
do you serve these hot or cold?
Hi Patty! They’re usually room temperature when I serve them. Sometimes they’re still a little warm if I serve immediately after prepping them, but they’re great enjoyed at room temp and even cold. Hope this helps. Enjoy!