Meatballs(Appetizer)
Sweet and savory meatballs coated in grape jelly and ketchup, perfect as a warm appetizer for parties or casual gatherings, appealing to a wide range of tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground chuck with 1/2 cup of catsup, 1/2 cup of grape jelly, garlic salt, and onion salt. Form into small meatballs.
- Simmer the meatballs in a large pot with the remaining mixture of catsup and jelly for 1 hour over very low flame. Cover the pot.
- Let the meatballs stand for several hours to develop flavor.
- Transfer the meatballs to a fondue dish to keep warm and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the meatball mixture. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the grape jelly slightly or add a splash of soy sauce. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground chuck. Serve with toothpicks for easy eating during gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs make a great appetizer for parties and pair beautifully with quick red pineapple punch. Consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or crispy vegetables for a balanced spread. They also work well as a filling in sub sandwiches or as a topping for pasta, providing versatile options for any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can warm them gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatballs(Appetizer) contains roughly 31 calories, with 0g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after cooking. If freezing raw, shape them and place on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cooked meatballs can be frozen in their sauce. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How spicy are these meatballs?
These meatballs are not spicy, as the recipe relies on sweet and savory flavors from the grape jelly and catsup. If you prefer a kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance. Simply refrigerate them after cooking and reheat when ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making them even more delicious.
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).