Judy Knight'S Chafing Dish Meatballs
Juicy meatballs simmered in a tangy chili jelly sauce, perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners, offering savory flavors with a sweet and tangy twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground chuck, slightly beaten egg, grated onion, and salt in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into 50 or 60 small meatballs.
- Combine chili sauce, grape jelly, and lemon juice in a skillet.
- Simmer the meatballs in the sauce until they are browned and cooked through.
- Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding minced garlic or herbs like parsley or basil to the meat mixture. If you want to reduce sugar, use less grape jelly or substitute with a natural sweetener. Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground chuck for a lighter option. Adjust the chili sauce based on your spice preference for a milder or hotter flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are perfect as a party appetizer or main dish. Serve them alongside toothpicks for easy eating, and pair with a fresh salad or crusty bread. They also go well with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. For dessert, consider serving with a slice of Pumpkin Coconut Pie for a delightful finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of sauce to keep them moist, or microwave them on a low setting, covered, until heated through. They can also be frozen for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Judy Knight'S Chafing Dish Meatballs contains roughly 774 calories, with 22g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 858mg per serving (37% 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 a day in advance and refrigerate them. Just cook them in the sauce before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. If you want to prepare them further ahead, consider freezing the raw meatballs and cooking them directly from frozen when needed.
What can I use instead of chili sauce?
If you don't have chili sauce, you can substitute it with a mixture of ketchup and hot sauce for a similar flavor. Alternatively, use barbecue sauce for a sweeter profile or a homemade tomato sauce with added spices for a more traditional taste.
How do I know when the meatballs are done cooking?
The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) and are no longer pink in the center. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Additionally, they should be browned on the outside and firm to the touch.
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).