Grape Jelly Meatballs

Name: Grape Jelly Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped); 1/4 cup milk; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup grape jelly; 1 cup barbecue sauce

Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. These grape jelly meatballs are the perfect blend of savory and sweet, making them an irresistible appetizer or main dish. They are easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients, making them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions. Your guests will be amazed by the delicious flavor and delightful texture, so let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful dish!

Ingredients

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup grape jelly
– 1 cup barbecue sauce

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 25 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Per serving, the nutritional value is as follows: Calories: 250, Protein: 15g, Carbohydrates: 20g, Fat: 12g. This analysis is based on one serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
4. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. In a saucepan, combine grape jelly and barbecue sauce over medium heat.
8. Stir until the jelly is melted and the mixture is smooth.
9. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and toss to coat.
10. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, grape jelly can be replaced with other fruit preserves like apricot or raspberry for a different flavor profile.

Serving and Pairings

These grape jelly meatballs pair wonderfully with rice or mashed potatoes. They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board or can be served with toothpicks as finger food at parties.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. These meatballs can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Don’t overmix the meat mixture; this can make the meatballs tough.
Ensure meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking.
Don’t skip the baking step; frying can lead to greasy meatballs.
Check for doneness with a meat thermometer (internal temperature should be 160°F).
Be cautious with the sauce; too much can overwhelm the meatball flavor.

Helpful Tips

Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after baking for better texture.
Experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne for added flavor.
Serve with fresh herbs for a pop of color and taste.

FAQs

Can I make grape jelly meatballs in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can prepare these meatballs in a slow cooker. Simply mix the grape jelly and barbecue sauce, add the meatballs, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

What can I substitute for grape jelly?

If you don’t have grape jelly, feel free to use any fruit jelly or preserve you prefer, such as apricot, raspberry, or peach for a different taste.

Can I use frozen meatballs instead?

Absolutely! You can use frozen meatballs for convenience. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions when adding them to the sauce.

Are these meatballs gluten-free?

To make these meatballs gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats in place of regular breadcrumbs.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover grape jelly meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Grape jelly meatballs are a delightful combination of flavors that are easy to prepare and utterly delicious. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or even as a quick snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the sweet and savory goodness that these meatballs bring to your table!