Meat Balls(Appetizers)
Juicy meatballs with savory flavors, coated in a tangy chili and grape jelly sauce, perfect for appetizers or casual gatherings, appealing to meat lovers and party guests alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, bread crumbs, minced onions, milk, egg, parsley flakes, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce together.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Melt shortening in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Brown the meatballs in the skillet until evenly cooked and browned.
- Remove the meatballs and pour off excess fat.
- Prepare the sauce by combining chili sauce and grape jelly in a saucepan.
- Simmer the sauce until the jelly melts and the mixture is well blended.
- Add the browned meatballs back into the sauce and heat through before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfectly tender meatballs, avoid overmixing the beef mixture. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats can be great substitutes. You can also experiment with different sauces like BBQ instead of chili sauce for a twist. For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or Italian seasoning into the meat mixture. Serve alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs make a delightful appetizer or can be served over rice or pasta for a hearty meal. Pair them with a side of garlic bread and a fresh garden salad for a balanced dinner. They also work well as a party dish, served with toothpicks for easy snacking. For a unique twist, try them with Sweet and Sour Sauce for a different flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a saucepan with a splash of water or sauce and warm over low heat until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, ensuring they stay moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Balls(Appetizers) contains roughly 885 calories, with 13g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2501mg per serving (109% 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 freeze the meatballs before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked meatballs. Shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How do I make the meatballs healthier?
To make the meatballs healthier, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots to the mixture for added nutrition. Using whole grain bread crumbs can also enhance the fiber content.
What can I serve with meatballs for a complete meal?
Meatballs pair wonderfully with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a classic dish. Alternatively, serve them with rice and steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a lighter option, they can be enjoyed in a lettuce wrap with a side of coleslaw or a fresh cucumber salad.
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).