Mini Meatball Appetizers with Apricot Dipping Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Ground Beef (96% lean)
• 1/4 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs
• 2 egg whites or 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Ingredients For Sauce:

• 3/4 cup apricot preserves
• 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons Dijon-style mustard

Directions:

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