Julie'S Sweet 'N Sour Meatballs
Juicy meatballs glazed with sweet and tangy pineapple sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining savory flavors with a hint of tropical sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix chopped meat, bread crumbs, salt, minced onion, milk, and eggs; form into meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs in shortening until evenly cooked and browned.
- Pour off excess fat from the skillet.
- In a separate saucepan, combine brown sugar, pineapple chunks, vinegar, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
- Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens and is heated through.
- Add the browned meatballs to the sauce and simmer for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, let the meatballs rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute. If you prefer a healthier option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also substitute the bread crumbs with gluten-free options if necessary. Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by varying the amount of brown sugar based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Julie's Sweet 'N Sour Meatballs over steamed rice or alongside mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. They also pair beautifully with Cabbage Salad(Cole Slaw) for a refreshing contrast. A side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad would round out the meal nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out. You can also microwave them in short intervals, covered, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Julie'S Sweet 'N Sour Meatballs contains roughly 1124 calories, with 78g protein, 178g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (157% of the Daily Value), iron (135% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (115% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1996mg per serving (87% 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 the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance. Form them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can enhance the flavors and save time on busy days.
What can I use instead of pineapple chunks?
If you prefer not to use pineapple, you can substitute it with diced bell peppers or even apricot preserves for a similar tangy sweetness in the sauce.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, check that they have reached an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can also cut one open to ensure there is no pink meat inside.
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).