Barbecue Meatball Appetizers
Savory ground chuck meatballs glazed in sweet grape jelly and spicy chili sauce—sweet, smoky, and tangy, perfect as finger‑friendly party bites for any crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground chuck, finely chopped onion, egg, bread crumbs, allspice, crushed garlic, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into walnut‑sized meatballs.
- Arrange the meatballs on a jelly roll or shallow pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
- In a frying pan or 2‑quart saucepan, combine grape jelly and chili sauce.
- Add the baked meatballs to the sauce mixture.
- Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve warm. (Optional: prepare a few days ahead for a party.)
- Makes approximately 25 meatballs.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the meatball mixture. If you don't have grape jelly, substituting it with apricot preserves or cranberry sauce can yield a deliciously different taste. Additionally, using lean ground turkey or chicken can be a healthier alternative to ground chuck while still keeping the meatballs moist.
Serving Suggestions
These barbecue meatball appetizers are perfect as a party snack or game day treat. Serve them alongside toothpicks for easy eating, and pair with a fresh salad or crispy vegetables for a balanced spread. They also complement other appetizers like the Triple Cheese Spread, making for a delightful appetizer platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave them on a microwave-safe plate, covered, for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Meatball Appetizers contains roughly 648 calories, with 21g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2192mg per serving (95% 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 make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs a day in advance. Just shape them and store in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake them. This can save time on the day of your event, allowing you to focus on other dishes or enjoy your guests.
What can I use instead of grape jelly?
If grape jelly isn't available, consider using other fruit preserves like raspberry or orange marmalade. Each will give a unique twist to the sauce while still maintaining the sweet and savory profile of the dish.
Are these meatballs suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! These meatballs freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in sauce as directed.
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).