Jacob'S Meatballs
Juicy meatballs made with turkey and bread crumbs, coated in a sweet chili and jelly sauce, baked with smoky sausages—perfect for gatherings and flavorful comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground turkey, bread crumbs, onion soup mix, and egg together.
- Form into small meatballs.
- Drop meatballs into boiling water and cook until done; drain.
- Mix chili sauce and grape jelly to create the sauce.
- Place meatballs and cocktail smokies in a baking dish.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs and smokies.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For moist meatballs, ensure not to overmix the turkey and bread crumbs. If desired, substitute ground turkey with lean ground beef for a richer flavor. You can also use homemade breadcrumbs instead of store-bought for a fresher taste. Adding some grated Parmesan cheese can enhance the flavor profile. For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the chili sauce and grape jelly mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs make a fantastic appetizer for gatherings and pair well with toothpicks for easy serving. Serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. They also work great as a main dish over pasta or rice. For a delicious variation, pair with the 'Tender Baked Turkey Breast' for a hearty feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and smokies in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes for a better texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jacob'S Meatballs contains roughly 376 calories, with 11g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 494mg per serving (21% 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 in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before bringing them to room temperature and cooking.
What can I use instead of grape jelly?
If grape jelly isn’t available, you can substitute it with other fruit preserves such as raspberry or peach jelly. Honey or maple syrup can also work, although they will alter the sweetness and texture of the sauce slightly. Experiment with your favorite flavors to find the perfect match for your taste buds.
How can I make these meatballs spicier?
To add heat to your meatballs, mix in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the meat mixture. Additionally, you can spice up the sauce by incorporating sriracha or chili powder into the chili sauce and grape jelly blend. Adjust to your preferred spice level for an extra kick.
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).