Snappy Glazed Meat Balls
Sweet and tangy glazed meatballs with grape jelly and chili sauce perfect for appetizers or casual gatherings, combining savory flavors with a sticky, flavorful glaze.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, egg, chopped onion, bread crumbs, and salt; mix well.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- In a saucepan, combine chili sauce and grape jelly; heat until the jelly melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the meatballs to the sauce and cook until heated through, about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic or herbs like parsley into the meatball mixture. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you're short on time, pre-made meatballs can be used, just adjust cooking time as needed. This recipe is a great addition to American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These Snappy Glazed Meatballs are perfect as an appetizer or main dish. Serve them over rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce, or pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They also make a great filling for sandwiches or sliders. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside garlic bread or a side of Easy Bean Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place meatballs in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent drying out. Cover and stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave them in a covered dish for a quick reheating option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Snappy Glazed Meat Balls contains roughly 777 calories, with 17g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2598mg per serving (113% 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 meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture and shape them a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This makes it easy to have a quick meal ready for any occasion, especially when serving guests.
What can I use instead of chili sauce?
If you don’t have chili sauce, you can substitute it with barbecue sauce or a mix of ketchup and hot sauce for a similar flavor profile. Adjust the amount of grape jelly to balance sweetness, ensuring the sauce remains smooth and tasty.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container once frozen. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for best 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).