Meatballs With Sweet And Sour Sauce
Juicy meatballs coated in a tangy sweet and sour sauce make this dish perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners, offering a flavorful blend of savory and sweet notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix ground beef, Bisquick, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, salt, oregano, egg, and crushed garlic (if using) in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into 60 (1-inch) meatballs.
- Place the meatballs on a greased jelly roll pan.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until cooked through.
- Drain the meatballs from any excess fat.
- Heat sweet and sour sauce in a large pot.
- Stir in the cooked meatballs and heat through.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of beef. If you're out of Bisquick, you can substitute with regular flour mixed with baking powder. Adding grated carrots or zucchini can enhance flavor and nutrition while keeping the meatballs moist. If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sweet and sour sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are delightful served over steamed rice or with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. They also pair wonderfully with noodles, making them a great option for a weeknight dinner. For a fun twist, serve them as appetizers with toothpicks and extra sweet and sour sauce for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out, covering until heated through. You can also microwave them briefly but be cautious not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatballs With Sweet And Sour Sauce contains roughly 104 calories, with 3g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1205mg per serving (52% 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?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs either before or after baking. To freeze uncooked meatballs, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. For cooked meatballs, store them in an airtight container with sauce. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
What can I serve with sweet and sour meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile and can be served with rice, noodles, or even in a sandwich. Consider pairing them with steamed broccoli or a fresh salad to balance the sweetness of the sauce. They also work well as part of a buffet spread for parties.
How do I make the sauce from scratch?
To make sweet and sour sauce from scratch, combine equal parts of sugar and vinegar, then add ketchup, soy sauce, and a bit of cornstarch mixed with water for thickening. Simmer until it reaches the desired consistency. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your liking for a personalized flavor.
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).