Meat Ball Tidbits And Sauce

Prep: 20 min Cuisine: American

Meatball tidbits glazed with a sweet and tangy sauce make a delightful appetizer or party snack, appealing to meat lovers and those craving savory, flavorful bites.

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Ingredients

  • 3 lb. ground beef
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 1/2 c. cracker crumbs
  • 1 tsp. onion salt
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 (32 oz.) bottle Del Monte catsup
  • 1 (10 oz.) jar Lady Lee currant jelly

Instructions

  1. Mix the ground beef, eggs, cracker crumbs, onion salt, salt, and pepper together (add milk if necessary). Shape into small balls.
  2. Brown the meatballs in a skillet or steam until cooked through; drain off excess grease.

Tips & Substitutions

For a flavorful twist, consider adding minced garlic or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the meatball mixture. If you're out of cracker crumbs, breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes can serve as excellent substitutes. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and if you prefer a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. This recipe can also be adapted to fit into various American recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the meatball tidbits with toothpicks as a fun appetizer, or over a bed of rice or pasta for a hearty meal. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables, creating a balanced plate. For a comforting option, consider serving them alongside A Complete Meal Casserole for a family-friendly dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Meat Ball Tidbits And Sauce contains roughly 679 calories, with 41g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (81% of the Daily Value) and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1964mg per serving (85% of the Daily Value).

679 kcal 34% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 40.7g 81% DV
Total Fat 47g 60% DV
Carbs 20.7g 8% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 1964.1mg 85% DV
Potassium 747.7mg 16% DV
Cholesterol 225.5mg 75% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 24.8mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 98.9mg 8% DV
Iron 4.9mg 27% DV
Diet fit High-protein
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 freeze the meatballs?

Yes, these meatballs freeze well! After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I use instead of currant jelly?

If you don't have currant jelly, grape jelly or raspberry preserves can work as suitable substitutes. Each will provide a different flavor profile, but they will complement the ketchup nicely. Experiment with what you have on hand for a unique twist.

How can I make these meatballs healthier?

To make this dish healthier, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also incorporate grated vegetables, like zucchini or carrots, into the meat mixture for added nutrition. Reducing the amount of jelly or using a sugar-free version can further lighten the dish.

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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