Great Balls 'O' Fire
Great Balls 'O' Fire are spicy, sweet meatballs coated in chili sauce and grape jelly, perfect for parties or casual gatherings with bold flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground chuck, breadcrumbs, chopped onions, milk, salt, and pepper; mix well and shape into one-inch balls.
- Brown meatballs in a large skillet with vegetable oil until lightly browned; drain in a colander and discard drippings.
- In the same skillet, combine chili sauce and grape jelly; cook over medium heat until jelly is melted.
- Stir occasionally to prevent burning or sticking.
- Add meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 10 to 20 minutes.
- Transfer the sauce and meatballs to a crock-pot or chafing dish to keep warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. If you don't have dry breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or panko can be great substitutes. Make sure to brown the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, ensuring they get an even golden color. This recipe pairs beautifully with Cheese Tempters for a complete spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these flavorful meatballs as an appetizer or main dish, accompanied by toothpicks for easy eating. They are excellent alongside potato dishes like Potato Magics or served over rice. For a complete meal, consider a green salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Balls 'O' Fire contains roughly 608 calories, with 12g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (232% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (84% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2434mg per serving (106% 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?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time by shaping them and refrigerating them until you're ready to cook. They can also be frozen before cooking; just thaw and cook as instructed when you're ready for a delicious meal.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground chuck with a plant-based meat alternative or a mixture of finely chopped vegetables and legumes. Adjust the breadcrumbs and seasoning as needed to maintain the flavor and texture.
What can I serve with Great Balls 'O' Fire?
These meatballs are versatile! They pair well with a variety of sides such as garlic bread, a crisp salad, or even over a bed of pasta. For a unique twist, serve them alongside Dreamsicle for a refreshing dessert option.
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).