Betty'S Sweet And Sour Meatballs
Sweet and tangy meatballs glazed in chili sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and water, making a flavorful appetizer or main dish perfect for family dinners or parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Mix hamburger, beaten eggs, bread crumbs, and chopped onion in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into meatballs.
- Place the meatballs in a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- In a separate bowl, combine chili sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and water.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the uncooked meatballs.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the meatball mixture. If you don’t have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or rolled oats can serve as a great substitute. Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by using less brown sugar if you prefer a tangier flavor. This recipe is also adaptable; try adding diced bell peppers to the meatballs for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sweet and sour meatballs over a bed of rice or alongside mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with Homestead Baked Beans for a delightful combination. For a lighter side, consider a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. These meatballs also make a great appetizer at parties, served with toothpicks for easy eating.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water or sauce, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Sweet And Sour Meatballs contains roughly 420 calories, with 6g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein.
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 freeze the meatballs before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Simply shape them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with sweet and sour meatballs?
Sweet and sour meatballs go well with various sides. Consider serving them with rice or noodles for a complete meal. They also pair nicely with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. For a fun twist, try them in a sub sandwich with melted cheese.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before pouring it over the meatballs. This can save you time on busy days and enhance the flavors as they meld together.
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).