Sweet-Sour Meat Balls
Sweet-sour meatballs combine tender beef with a tangy glaze of tomato, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, complemented by sautéed green peppers and onions. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this versatile dish offers bold flavors and can be prepared in advance or frozen for later enjoyment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, and salt. Roll into small meatballs.
- Broil the meatballs in the oven or pan until browned, then fry on the stove top.
- Drain the meatballs and set aside.
- Sauté the chopped green pepper and onion in butter until tender.
- Add the tomato soup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and vinegar to the sautéed vegetables to make the sauce.
- Return the meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. If you're out of bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as a substitute. Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking. For added flavor, mix in garlic powder or Italian seasoning. This dish pairs beautifully with Homemade Vegetable Soup for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sweet-sour meatballs over rice or egg noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad complements the dish well. For a hearty meal, consider pairing it with cornbread or crusty bread, making it a comforting choice for any dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave them in a covered dish, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet-Sour Meat Balls contains roughly 763 calories, with 14g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1380mg per serving (60% 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 freeze the meatballs after cooking?
Yes, these meatballs freeze well! Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the sauce on the stovetop.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce. Adding a bit of sugar will help balance the acidity. For a unique flavor, try using barbecue sauce instead for a different twist.
How can I make these meatballs spicier?
To add some heat, mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the meatball mixture or the sauce. You can also sauté some diced jalapeños with the onions and green peppers for an extra kick.
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).