These grape jelly meatballs are a delightful fusion of sweet and savory, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress. The tender meatballs simmered in a luscious grape jelly sauce create a unique flavor that is both comforting and satisfying. Get ready to savor a dish that combines simplicity with deliciousness!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 cup grape jelly
– 1 cup chili sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 4 meatballs) contains about 250 calories, 15g fat, 20g carbohydrates, and 10g protein. This nutritional information is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, and egg.
3. Season with salt and pepper and mix until well combined.
4. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine grape jelly and chili sauce.
8. Stir until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
9. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and stir to coat.
10. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to make a lighter version. Additionally, use any fruit jelly you prefer for a different flavor profile, such as cranberry or raspberry.
Serving and Pairings
These meatballs are fantastic served as appetizers with toothpicks or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Pair them with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave. These meatballs can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the meat mixture can lead to tough meatballs.
- Not preheating the oven may result in uneven cooking.
- Using too much jelly can make the sauce too sweet.
- Neglecting to season properly can lead to bland meatballs.
- Skipping the baking step can cause meatballs to fall apart in the sauce.
Helpful Tips
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform meatballs.
- Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving.
- For extra flavor, add garlic powder or herbs to the meat mixture.
- Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
FAQs
Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, making sure they are heated through before adding to the sauce.
What can I serve with grape jelly meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with rice, mashed potatoes, or even as a filling for sandwiches. They also make a great appetizer when served with toothpicks.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
The meatballs should be browned on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to heat and serve.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make grape jelly meatballs gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that the chili sauce is also gluten-free.
Conclusion
Grape jelly meatballs are a delightful dish that blends sweet and savory flavors, making them a hit at any gathering. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Give it a try for your next meal or party, and watch your guests enjoy every bite!
Grape Jelly Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup chili sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, and egg.
- Season with salt and pepper and mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine grape jelly and chili sauce.
- Stir until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
- Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and stir to coat.
- Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
