Mini Meatball Appetizers with Apricot Dipping Sauce

Courtesy of The Beef Checkoff

Servings: 9
Prep Time: 10 Min.
Cook Time: 20 Min.

* 1 lb. ground beef (96% lean)
* 1/4 c. seasoned dry bread crumbs
* 2 egg whites or 1 egg, beaten
* 2 Tbsp. water
* 1/4 tsp. salt
* 1/8 tsp. pepper

Sauce:
* 3/4 c. apricot preserves
* 3/4 c. barbecue sauce
* 2 Tbsp. Dijon-style mustard

1. Heat oven to 400°F. Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg whites, water, salt and pepper in large bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Shape into thirty-six 1-1/4-in. meatballs. Place on rack in broiler pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Bake in 400°F oven 15-17 min.
2. Meanwhile, heat preserves, barbecue sauce and mustard in medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil; reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 3-5 min., stirring occasionally or until sauce thickens slightly.
3. Add cooked meatballs and continue to cook 2-3 min. or until meatballs are heated through, stirring occasionally. Serve or keep warm in slow cooker (see tip below).

* To keep meatballs warm, place in a 2-1/2 qt. slow cooker set on Low. Keep covered to maintain heat. Meatballs can be held up to 2-1/2 hrs., stirring occasionally.

* Nutrition information per serving of 4 meatballs:

* Recipe Courtesy of The Beef Checkoff

Calories: 179;   Total Fat: 2g;   Saturated Fat: 1g;   Cholesterol: 29mg;   Total Carbs: 29g;   Fiber: 0g;   Protein: 11g;   Sodium: 126mg;