Grape Jelly Meatballs
Sweet and savory grape jelly meatballs are perfect for parties or casual dinners, offering a flavorful glaze with chili sauce, ground beef, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onions, milk, egg, salt, parsley, and black pepper; mix well and roll into balls.
- Cook the meatballs in a skillet until browned, then drain off the grease.
- Add chili sauce and grape jelly to the skillet with the meatballs and simmer, covered, for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for the beef and use whole wheat bread crumbs. You can also experiment with different flavors of jelly, such as peach or raspberry, to create a unique twist on this classic dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these grape jelly meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy eating, or over rice or noodles for a hearty main dish. They pair well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside the Quick And Zesty Soup for a comforting combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grape Jelly Meatballs contains roughly 487 calories, with 23g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (160% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (138% of the Daily Value), and potassium (83% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 469mg per serving (20% 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 these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can cook them fully and freeze them, then reheat when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of grape jelly?
If you don't have grape jelly on hand, you can substitute with other fruit preserves like apricot or cherry, or use barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to balance the sweetness with the chili sauce.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs for a healthier option! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the rolled meatballs on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes or until cooked through, then add them to the sauce to simmer.
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).