Apricot Meatballs
Sweet and savory apricot meatballs combine tender ground beef with a fruity glaze, making them perfect for casual dinners or entertaining. The hint of onion and Mrs. Dash adds depth of flavor, while the apricot preserves create a sticky, flavorful coating that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine egg, bread crumbs, chopped onion, and Mrs. Dash.
- Crumble ground beef over the mixture and mix well.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- In a skillet, brown meatballs in several batches, then drain excess fat.
- Transfer browned meatballs to a greased 2-quart baking dish.
- Combine apricot preserves and barbecue sauce, then pour over the meatballs.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using ground turkey instead of beef. You can also substitute the apricot preserves with peach or mango preserves for a different flavor profile. If you don't have Mrs. Dash, any seasoning blend you prefer will work. Be cautious not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
Serving Suggestions
These apricot meatballs can be served as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice for a hearty main dish. Pair them with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. They also make a great addition to a platter alongside Cheese And Meatball Soup for a delightful gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 them in short bursts until heated through. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Meatballs contains roughly 638 calories, with 10g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 623mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different type of meat for the meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives can be used instead of ground beef. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure they reach a safe internal temperature.
What can I serve with apricot meatballs?
These meatballs pair wonderfully with rice or quinoa, which soak up the apricot sauce. You can also serve them with crusty bread to mop up the sauce, or alongside coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
To make these meatballs gluten-free, simply substitute the soft bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that all other ingredients, particularly sauces, are also gluten-free.
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).