Sweet And Sour Balls
Sweet and savory meatballs coated in a tangy grape jelly and catsup sauce, perfect for casual gatherings and served with toothpicks for easy enjoyment.
Ingredients
- 2 lb. very lean ground beef ⓘ
- 14 oz. bottle catsup
- 10 oz. jar grape jelly
Instructions
- Form the ground beef into 1/2-inch balls without seasoning.
- Place the meatballs in a shallow pan and microwave for 2 minutes.
- Turn the meatballs occasionally until they are firm, avoiding overcooking.
- Drain the meatballs to remove excess moisture.
- Melt the grape jelly and catsup in an electric skillet over medium heat.
- Add the cooked meatballs into the mixture and simmer slowly for 1 1/2 hours.
- Serve with toothpicks for guests to easily pick up the meatballs.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the ground beef is very lean to avoid excess grease in the dish. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Make sure to drain the meatballs well after microwaving to prevent a watery sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Sweet And Sour Balls as an appetizer at parties, alongside toothpicks for easy serving. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve them over rice for a satisfying dinner, or browse more American recipes for additional side ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist, and cover to steam for about 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Balls contains roughly 115 calories, with 1g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1029mg per serving (45% 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 in advance and refrigerate them before cooking. Just follow the instructions until the meatballs are formed and microwaved, then store them in the fridge until you're ready to finish cooking them in the sauce.
What can I serve with Sweet And Sour Balls?
These meatballs are versatile and can be served with various sides. They go well with rice, whether it's plain or flavored, and also pair nicely with a green salad or roasted vegetables. For a fun twist, try them in a hoagie roll for a meatball sub.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm them in a skillet or microwave.
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).