Peggy'S Meatballs
Savory beef meatballs glazed in a sweet and spicy grape jelly chili sauce—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd‑pleasing party dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, salt, parsley flakes, egg, milk, chopped onions, and bread crumbs in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into balls and deep fry until golden brown.
- Drain the meatballs on paper towels to remove excess grease.
- Melt grape jelly and chili sauce together in a saucepan.
- Add the fried meatballs to the sauce, simmer for a few minutes to coat and heat through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a good substitute. To enhance flavor, add minced garlic or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying to achieve that perfect golden brown crust.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are perfect served over rice or pasta, making for a hearty meal. Pair them with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dish. They also work wonderfully as appetizers for parties, especially when served with toothpicks and extra sauce on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for a minute or two or warm them gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peggy'S Meatballs contains roughly 762 calories, with 20g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2557mg per serving (111% 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 frying. When ready to serve, simply thaw and fry them as directed. This saves time and is perfect for meal prep.
What can I use instead of grape jelly?
If grape jelly isn't available, you can substitute it with another fruit jelly or even cranberry sauce for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the sweetness balances with the chili sauce.
Can these meatballs be baked instead of fried?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through. This method is healthier and still yields delicious results.
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).