Sweet And Spicy Meatballs
Sweet and spicy meatballs with a flavorful glaze of chili sauce and grape jelly, perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners with a balance of heat and sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, bread crumbs, minced onion, skim milk, parsley flakes, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Cook the meatballs over medium heat until browned.
- Drain the cooked meatballs well.
- Heat chili sauce and grape jelly until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked meatballs to the chili sauce mixture.
- Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture. If you don't have fresh parsley, dried herbs can work as a substitute. Instead of ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option. Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking, and use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking during browning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet and spicy meatballs over a bed of rice or alongside mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. They also pair well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. For a fun twist, try them in a sub sandwich with melted cheese, or serve them as an appetizer at parties.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat with a bit of the chili sauce mixture until warmed through. They can also be microwaved for 1-2 minutes, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Spicy Meatballs contains roughly 109 calories, with 3g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (130% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2042mg per serving (89% 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, shape them, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, just add them directly to the sauce without thawing, though cooking time may increase slightly.
What can I substitute for grape jelly?
If you don't have grape jelly, you can substitute with other fruit preserves such as apricot or raspberry. Alternatively, a mix of honey and a splash of vinegar can create a similar sweet-tart flavor profile that will complement the chili sauce.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The best way to check if the meatballs are done is to use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Additionally, they should be nicely browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center when cut open.
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).