Sweet 'N Sour Meat Balls
Sweet 'N Sour Meat Balls are flavorful, tender meat balls coated in a tangy sauce made from chili sauce, grape jelly, and lemon juice, perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, egg, chopped onion, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper together in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into 3/4-inch meat balls.
- In a saucepan, bring chili sauce, grape jelly, and lemon juice to a boil.
- Add the meat balls to the boiling sauce.
- Carefully turn the meat balls to ensure they remain whole and cook evenly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or finely chopped bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you're looking for a leaner option, substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can also replace grape jelly with apricot preserves for a different twist. Ensure meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking, and serve with toothpicks for easy eating.
Serving Suggestions
These Sweet 'N Sour Meatballs are great served over rice or with a side of steamed broccoli. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with a fresh salad or some crusty bread. They also make a fantastic appetizer for parties, especially if you serve them with toothpicks for easy handling.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent drying out. You can also microwave them in short intervals, covered, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet 'N Sour Meat Balls contains roughly 1376 calories, with 28g protein, 270g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (84% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and calcium (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1751mg per serving (76% 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 the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate them. Just cook them in the sauce when you're ready to serve. This allows their flavors to meld and saves time on the day of serving.
What can I serve with Sweet 'N Sour Meatballs?
These meatballs pair nicely with rice or mashed potatoes. Additionally, serving them with a side of vegetables, like green beans or a fresh salad, adds balance to the meal. For a fun twist, try them in a sub sandwich.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze these meatballs! After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating in the sauce.
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).