Marisa'S Yummy Meatballs

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Cuisine: American

Sweet and tangy meatballs with grape jelly and chili sauce, perfect as appetizers or alongside rice, appealing to family gatherings and casual parties.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb chopped meat
  • 1 18 oz jar grape jelly
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 2 jars chili sauce

Instructions

  1. Place all liquid ingredients in a large pot.
  2. Roll meat into tiny balls about 1 inch in diameter.
  3. Pour chili sauce into the pot, then fill each jar with water and add to the pot.
  4. Cook on medium heat for close to 1 hour.
  5. Serve with rice or as appetizers.
  6. Great to cook ahead and freeze!

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or onion to the meat mixture. If you're looking for a lower-sugar alternative, try using sugar-free grape jelly or substituting the jelly with a homemade fruit sauce. For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the chili sauce. Also, ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking.

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs are delicious served over rice or as appetizers at gatherings. They pair well with sides like Cole Slaw Supreme for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. They're also great on a sub roll for a meatball sandwich.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. When reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid boiling to maintain texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Marisa'S Yummy Meatballs contains roughly 711 calories, with 95g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (190% of the Daily Value), iron (152% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (143% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 40g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

711 kcal 36% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 94.8g 100% DV
Total Fat 6.8g 9% DV
Carbs 80g 29% DV
Fiber 40.2g 100% DV
Sugar 0.7g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 29.3mg 1% DV
Potassium 4456.1mg 95% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 11.8mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 17mg 19% DV
Calcium 464mg 36% DV
Iron 27.3mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat

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 instead of chopped meat?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for chopped meat in this recipe. It will provide a leaner option while still maintaining flavor. Just be mindful that ground turkey may cook faster, so check the meatballs for doneness a bit earlier.

How do I make these meatballs spicier?

To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the meat mixture. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or use a spicy chili sauce instead of the standard chili sauce for a bolder flavor.

Can I prepare these meatballs in advance?

Absolutely! These meatballs can be made ahead of time. Prepare and cook them, then cool completely before storing in the fridge or freezer. When ready to serve, reheat gently to preserve their texture and flavor. They're perfect for meal prep!

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).

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