Dot'S Sweet And Sour Meatballs
Sweet and sour meatballs with a tangy glaze, pineapple, and optional vegetables, perfect for a hearty family meal or casual gathering with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make small meatballs from ground meat and brown them in a roaster in the oven.
- Remove excess fat from the meatballs.
- Mix brown sugar, dry mustard, ketchup, chopped onion, vinegar, pineapple juice, and pineapple chunks together in a bowl.
- Thicken the mixture with flour and pour it over the browned meatballs.
- Top with a can of chunk pineapple. Optionally, add green pepper and mushrooms.
- Place in a casserole dish and heat in the oven at 350°F for approximately 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, let the meatballs rest after browning to enhance their juiciness. If you want a twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option. Additionally, adding a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the sauce mixture can deepen the flavor profile. This dish can also be served as a Quick Appetizer at gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet and sour meatballs over a bed of rice or alongside Nutted Wild Rice for a delicious meal. They pair excellently with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. For a fun appetizer, toothpick them into bite-sized portions and serve with a dipping sauce. This dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. They can also be heated in the microwave for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dot'S Sweet And Sour Meatballs contains roughly 553 calories, with 10g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium.
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?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance. Once cooked, allow them to cool, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking them with the sauce. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together even more.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses to replicate the flavor. For a healthier option, try using honey or maple syrup, adjusting the quantity to taste. Keep in mind these alternatives may alter the consistency slightly.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground meat with plant-based alternatives like lentils, chickpeas, or a store-bought meat substitute. Ensure to adjust cooking times for the meat substitutes, as they may require less cooking time than traditional meat.
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).