Tangy Sweet Meatballs(I Serve These Often On Holidays.)
Tangy sweet meatballs with apricot preserves and barbecue sauce offer a delightful combination of flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, ground pork, bread crumbs, eggs, chopped onion, minced parsley, and salt in a mixing bowl, mixing well.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs in melted margarine in a skillet.
- Drain the browned meatballs on paper towels.
- Place the drained meatballs in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Combine apricot preserves and barbecue sauce in a bowl; mix well.
- Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the meatballs in the baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot in a chafing dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or using Italian-seasoned bread crumbs. If you prefer a leaner option, substitute ground turkey for either the beef or pork. To ensure even cooking, make sure the meatballs are uniformly shaped. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought meatballs and simply coat them with the apricot-barbecue sauce for a quicker version of this dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Tangy Sweet Meatballs as an appetizer or main dish during gatherings and holidays. They pair beautifully with Easy Oven Rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a themed spread, consider serving them alongside Island Sweet-Sour Meatballs for variety, or incorporate them into a buffet-style setup where guests can serve themselves.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for 2-3 minutes, but this may result in less even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tangy Sweet Meatballs(I Serve These Often On Holidays.) contains roughly 2283 calories, with 73g protein, 285g carbohydrates, and 96g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (147% of the Daily Value), iron (83% of the Daily Value), and calcium (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 use different types of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can definitely substitute the ground beef and pork with other meats. Ground turkey or chicken would work well for a leaner option. If you want to add more flavor, consider mixing in some Italian sausage or even a bit of lamb for a unique twist.
How can I make these meatballs spicier?
To add some heat to your Tangy Sweet Meatballs, try incorporating red pepper flakes or hot sauce into the meat mixture or the sauce. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce on the side to satisfy those who enjoy a little kick.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, you can freeze them after shaping, then thaw and cook them when you're ready to serve. Just adjust the baking time if they are frozen.
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).