You certainly can. Simply heat a half cup of vegetable, canola or peanut oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally until cook through. Adjust the heat as necessary to make sure the meatballs don't brown too quickly. Remove the meatballs from the skillet using a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Pour off any remaining fat and oil in the skillet. Proceed with the recipe adding the butter directly to any brown bits that remain in the skillet.