Sweet And Sour Meat Balls Or Sausages
Sweet and sour meatballs or sausages offer a delightful combination of savory flavors with a tangy, sweet glaze. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, they are easy to prepare in a slow cooker, making them ideal for parties, gatherings, or weeknight dinners with a flavorful twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fill the slow cooker with the prepared meat balls or sausage links.
- Mix brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and water in a separate bowl.
- Pour the mixture over the meat in the slow cooker.
- Cook for at least 4 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a touch of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. You can substitute the Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, pre-cooked frozen meatballs work well. This dish can also be made with sausages for a different twist. Serve with Matt'S Macaroni Salad for a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sweet and sour meatballs or sausages as an appetizer at your next gathering, or over rice for a hearty main dish. They pair beautifully with Pickled Beet Salad for a refreshing side. For a complete meal, consider serving with crusty bread or a green salad. They also make a great filling for sliders.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs or sausages in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for quick servings.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Meat Balls Or Sausages contains roughly 90 calories, with 1g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 use fresh meat instead of prepared meatballs or sausages?
Yes, you can use fresh ground meat to make your own meatballs. Simply mix ground beef or turkey with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings, then shape into balls. Adjust cooking time if using fresh meat, ensuring they are fully cooked through.
Is it possible to make this recipe in the oven?
Absolutely! To prepare in the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the meatballs or sausages in a baking dish, pour the sauce over them, and cover with foil. Bake for about 30-40 minutes, removing the foil for the last 10 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then combine and cook in the slow cooker on the day of serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious!
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).