Meatballs With Grape Jelly
Juicy meatballs simmered in a sweet and tangy grape jelly and chili sauce glaze, offering a perfect appetizer or party snack. The combination of savory beef with a hint of citrus makes this dish appealing to both kids and adults, ideal for gatherings or casual family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef with corn flakes, salt, pepper, and enough water to bind the mixture.
- Form approximately 90 cocktail-sized meatballs from the mixture.
- Combine chili sauce, lemon juice, and grape jelly in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Add the meatballs singly into the sauce.
- Simmer covered for 25 to 30 minutes, then uncover and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding minced garlic or chopped onions to the meatball mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, use ground turkey instead of beef. You can also substitute the grape jelly with apricot or peach preserves for a different flavor profile. Make sure to adjust the seasoning based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are perfect as an appetizer or served over rice for a main dish. They pair well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. For a fun twist, serve them in sliders using small buns, making them a great addition to a game day spread alongside Sloppy Joes(Quick And Easy).
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 keep them moist. Alternatively, you can microwave them, covered, for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatballs With Grape Jelly contains roughly 656 calories, with 12g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and potassium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 774mg per serving (34% 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 these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and freeze them before cooking. Just form the meatballs, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw and follow the sauce instructions.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) to ensure they are fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. They should be brown on the outside and firm to the touch.
Can I use a different type of sauce?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different sauces! BBQ sauce or a sweet and sour sauce can be tasty alternatives. Just adjust the sweetness to your liking, especially if you use a sauce that is already sweetened.
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).