Dorothy'S Meatballs
Savory meatballs glazed with a tangy cranberry and chili sauce, complemented by sauerkraut and brown sugar, perfect for hearty family dinners or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix hamburger, bread crumbs, onion soup mix, and eggs; shape into meatballs.
- Combine cranberry sauce, chili sauce, water, brown sugar, and sauerkraut in a saucepan and cook for 30 minutes.
- Place the meatballs in a 9 x 12-inch glass pan.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic or fresh herbs like parsley into the meatball mixture. If you don't have onion soup mix, a blend of sautéed onions, garlic powder, and dried herbs can work as a substitute. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Pairing these meatballs with a side of Cherry Tomato Salad can balance the richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs over rice or egg noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding sides like Pennsylvania Dutch Style Green Beans or Mission Baked Beans for a hearty pairing. A fresh salad can also complement the dish and provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a baking dish with a bit of sauce and cover with foil, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dorothy'S Meatballs contains roughly 463 calories, with 11g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), protein (21% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 830mg per serving (36% 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 freeze the meatballs for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before baking or after they are cooked. To freeze uncooked meatballs, place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. For cooked meatballs, allow them to cool completely before freezing. They can be reheated straight from frozen or thawed overnight in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute it with granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses or honey to replicate the moisture and flavor. Alternatively, coconut sugar or maple syrup can also work well for a different yet delicious taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to the meatballs, consider mixing in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the meatball mixture. You can also enhance the sauce with hot sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Adjust to your preferred spice level for the best experience.
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).