Quick Sweet And Sour Meatballs
Sweet and tangy meatballs coated in a flavorful sauce, perfect as an appetizer or party dish. Quick to prepare and ideal for casual gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put grape jelly and chili sauce in a saucepan.
- Whisk until smooth and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, make meatballs the size of a quarter using ground hamburger.
- Add meatballs to the sauce.
- Let simmer for 25 minutes before serving with toothpicks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother sauce, ensure the grape jelly is fully melted before adding the chili sauce. If you want a kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for hamburger for a lighter option. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet and sour meatballs warm, garnished with chopped parsley for a pop of color. They pair perfectly with toothpicks for easy serving at parties or gatherings. Consider serving alongside rice or noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce. This dish also complements a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place meatballs in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well-sealed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Sweet And Sour Meatballs contains roughly 158 calories, with 7g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Once cooked, let them cool, then store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat them gently before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
What can I serve with sweet and sour meatballs?
These meatballs work well as an appetizer or main dish. Serve them with rice or noodles, or pair with a side of steamed vegetables. For a more casual setting, consider serving them with slider buns for mini sandwiches.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be used as alternatives to hamburger. Adjust the cooking time slightly if using a leaner meat to ensure they remain juicy and flavorful.
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).