Quick And Easy Sweet And Sour Meatballs
A quick, flavorful dish featuring tender meatballs in a sweet and tangy sauce made with Heinz 57 and grape jelly, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare meatballs and fry until cooked all the way through. Drain grease from meatballs.
- Combine Heinz 57 sauce and grape jelly in a crock-pot.
- After the jelly has completely dissolved, add the cooked meatballs to the sauce.
- Cook on low for about 1 hour, until heated through and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Ensure the meatballs are evenly browned for better flavor. If you have leftover meatballs, they can be used in dishes like Mostaccioli Chili Casserole for a delicious second meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sweet and sour meatballs over rice or alongside mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. They also pair well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced dinner. For a fun twist, serve them as sliders on mini buns for a party appetizer or snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until heated. Avoid overheating to keep the meatballs tender.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy Sweet And Sour Meatballs contains roughly 438 calories, with 27g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
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 the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just ensure they are cooked fully before adding to the sauce. This can make meal prep easier and is a great time-saver.
Can I freeze the sweet and sour meatballs?
Absolutely! Once cooked, let the meatballs cool, then freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, ensuring they are heated thoroughly before serving.
What can I use instead of Heinz 57 sauce?
If you don't have Heinz 57 sauce, you can substitute it with a mix of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, barbecue sauce can be used for a different but delicious taste in your sweet and sour meatballs.
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).