Patti'S Party Meatballs
Savory meatballs infused with soy sauce, garlic, and parsley, then glazed with a tangy cranberry and chili sauce mixture—perfect for parties or family dinners. Deliciously hearty and flavorful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend ground chuck, cornflake crumbs, eggs, soy sauce, pepper, garlic powder, catsup, parsley flakes, and minced onion until well combined.
- Combine cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan; heat until smooth.
- Mix the sauce with the meat mixture thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs.
- Place the meatballs on a pan or cookie sheet.
- Freeze the meatballs overnight.
- Transfer the frozen meatballs to a plastic bag and return to the freezer until needed.
- When ready to serve, place the meatballs in a baking dish on cooked spaghetti.
- Generously cover with catsup and bake for 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter alternative, consider using ground turkey instead of ground chuck. You can substitute panko breadcrumbs for cornflake crumbs if preferred. Adding finely chopped bell peppers or carrots can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Ensure the mixture is well-blended to keep meatballs moist. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over a bed of cooked spaghetti for a hearty meal. A side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad pairs beautifully to round out the dish. For a fun twist, consider offering a variety of sauces for dipping. This recipe is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, making it a great addition to your collection of American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. They also freeze well for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Patti'S Party Meatballs contains roughly 151 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 692mg per serving (30% 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?
Yes, these meatballs can be prepared in advance. After shaping, freeze them overnight as directed, then store them in a plastic bag for later use. This makes it easy to have a quick meal ready whenever you need it. Just bake from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
What can I use instead of chili sauce?
If you don't have chili sauce, you can substitute with barbecue sauce or a mix of ketchup and hot sauce. This will provide a similar sweet and tangy flavor. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. You can also try using homemade sauces for a more personalized touch.
How do I ensure my meatballs stay moist?
To keep your meatballs moist, avoid overmixing the meat mixture and let them rest before cooking. Adding ingredients like minced onion and moist sauces helps retain moisture. Baking them covered initially also traps steam, which keeps them tender. This is crucial for a successful meatball outcome.
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).