Appetizer Meatballs
Juicy, flavorful meatballs loaded with herbs and spices, simmered in a sweet and tangy chili-jelly sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, they appeal to fans of hearty, savory bites with a hint of sweetness, making them a crowd-pleasing addition to any gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, eggs, onion flakes, parsley flakes, bread crumbs, garlic salt, pepper, milk, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs.
- Heat oil in a skillet and brown the meatballs until cooked through, then drain excess oil.
- In a saucepan, combine chili sauce and grape jelly and heat until smooth.
- Add the browned meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese or swapping out regular breadcrumbs for Italian seasoned ones. If you prefer a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. For a lower-fat option, ground turkey can replace ground beef. Ensure meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking. Using a mix of meats, like ground pork or veal, can add depth to the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs make a great appetizer, but can also be served over rice or pasta for a heartier meal. They pair beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. For a fun twist, serve them in slider buns with your favorite toppings. You can also serve them alongside Jake Kalberer'S Spinach Dip for a delightful spread at your next gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep them moist, or microwave in short intervals, checking often to avoid overcooking. These meatballs also freeze well; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Appetizer Meatballs contains roughly 204 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 19g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to cook. Alternatively, you can fully cook the meatballs, let them cool, and freeze them. Just ensure they are properly stored, and when you're ready to use them, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I substitute for grape jelly?
If you don't have grape jelly on hand, you can use other fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot for a different flavor profile. Honey or maple syrup can also work as a sweetener, though you may want to adjust the quantity based on your taste preference. Just remember to keep the balance of sweet and savory in mind.
How do I know when the meatballs are done cooking?
To ensure that the meatballs are fully cooked, they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Additionally, they should be browned on the outside and firm to the touch. If they are still soft or have a raw appearance, continue cooking them until they are done.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).