These grape jelly meatballs are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that make for an irresistible appetizer. They’re perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 cup grape jelly
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 4 meatballs) contains about 300 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, 25g carbohydrates, 5g sugar, and 2g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, and milk.
3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
4. Mix the ingredients until well combined.
5. Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. In a separate bowl, mix grape jelly and barbecue sauce until smooth.
8. Pour the sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well-coated.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
10. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also experiment with different fruit preserves for unique flavors.
Serving and Pairings
These meatballs pair wonderfully with toothpicks for easy serving. They can be enjoyed with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside steamed vegetables.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can also freeze the meatballs for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid over-mixing the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
– Ensure the meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking.
– Don’t skip preheating the oven; this helps the meatballs cook properly.
– Check for doneness with a meat thermometer (internal temp should be 160°F).
– Be careful with the sauce; too much can cause boiling over in the oven.
Helpful Tips
– Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
– Experiment with adding herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.
– If the mixture is too dry, add a little more milk.
– Make a double batch for larger gatherings.
FAQs
Can I make grape jelly meatballs in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just combine the meatballs and sauce in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
What can I serve with grape jelly meatballs?
They are great with rice, mashed potatoes, or as a party appetizer with toothpicks.
Can I use other types of jelly?
Yes, you can substitute grape jelly with other fruit jellies like raspberry or apricot for different flavors.
How do I know when the meatballs are done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I freeze cooked meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze cooked meatballs. Just make sure they are stored in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Conclusion
Grape jelly meatballs are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that combines sweet and savory flavors perfectly. Easy to prepare and delightful to eat, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy them as an appetizer or a main dish, and savor the deliciousness!
Grape Jelly Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, and milk.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a separate bowl, mix grape jelly and barbecue sauce until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition
