Laurette'S Sweet And Sour Meatballs
Sweet and sour meatballs with a tangy glaze, featuring a balance of savory beef, brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix chopped meat and bread crumbs together; form into small meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs, then drain excess fat.
- Place meatballs in an oven-safe pan.
- Combine beef gravy, dry mustard, vinegar, water, and brown sugar; pour over meatballs.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some finely chopped onions or garlic with the meat mixture. If you're out of bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as substitutes. The beef gravy can be replaced with a homemade sauce or a different flavor of gravy to switch up the taste. For a twist, try adding crushed pineapple to the sauce for a sweet and tangy kick, reminiscent of dishes like Cabbage Roll Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sweet and sour meatballs over steamed rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. They pair beautifully with a side of sautéed green beans or a fresh salad to balance the richness. For a fun twist, try them in a sub sandwich with melted cheese. Explore more American recipes for a full meal experience.
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 baking dish with a splash of water or more gravy to keep them moist, and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Also, these meatballs freeze well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Laurette'S Sweet And Sour Meatballs contains roughly 849 calories, with 80g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (160% of the Daily Value), iron (137% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (118% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1915mg per serving (83% 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 use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to beef in this recipe. Just be mindful of cooking times, as lean meats may cook faster. Adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavor, as poultry can be milder.
What can I do if the sauce is too sweet?
If you find the sauce too sweet for your taste, you can add a splash more vinegar or a bit of soy sauce to balance out the sweetness. Taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor. You can also reduce the amount of brown sugar in the recipe to suit your preference.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Form the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them, then cook straight from frozen, adjusting the baking time as needed.
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).