Swedish Meatball Sauce
Sweet and savory Swedish meatball sauce features grape jelly and barbecue sauce, creating a flavorful glaze that complements tender meatballs, ideal for casual family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. grape jelly ⓘ
- 18 oz. Kraft barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Mix the grape jelly and barbecue sauce in a pot over medium heat.
- Heat until well combined and the jelly melts.
- Add cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of garlic powder to the mixture. If you can't find grape jelly, try using strawberry-lime jam as a substitute for a different twist. This sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored, making it great for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs with toothpicks as appetizer bites or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty main dish. They pair beautifully with Easiest Barbecue Sauce for a double flavor punch. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatball sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, to prevent overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swedish Meatball Sauce contains roughly 95 calories, with 7g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% 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 this sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it when you're ready to add your cooked meatballs. This can save you time on busy days.
What type of meatballs work best with this sauce?
While traditional beef meatballs are popular, you can use turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option. For a vegetarian alternative, try using meatless meatballs made from lentils or beans.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can reduce the amount of grape jelly or add a bit of hot sauce to balance the sweetness. Taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor.
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).