Grape Jelly Meatballs are a sweet and savory dish that everyone loves. They are perfect for parties, game days, or just a simple family dinner. These meatballs are easy to make and taste fantastic. If you are looking for a crowd-pleaser, you’ve found it!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it combines two beloved flavors: sweet grape jelly and savory meatballs. This combination creates a unique taste that is sure to impress your guests. Second, it’s simple to prepare and doesn’t require fancy ingredients. Lastly, this dish can easily feed a large group, making it perfect for gatherings.
How to Make Grape Jelly Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 15 ounces grape jam
- 15 ounces Sweet Red Chili Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- 2 pounds ground chuck
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (granulated garlic)
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 eggs (lightly beaten)
Directions:
For the Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine grape jam, sweet red chili sauce, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and white vinegar.
- Stir well and heat over medium heat until the mixture is warm. Set aside.
For the Meatballs:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground chuck, breadcrumbs, milk, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and eggs.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the warm grape jelly sauce and serve.
How to Serve Grape Jelly Meatballs
Serve the grape jelly meatballs hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. They can be plated as an appetizer or served over rice for a main dish. You can also provide toothpicks for easy snacking at parties.
How to Store Grape Jelly Meatballs
If you have leftovers, let the meatballs cool down and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Grape Jelly Meatballs
- Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture; this keeps them tender.
- If you want a spicier kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
- You can use different types of ground meat like turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Variation
Feel free to switch up the flavors! Use different types of jelly, like apricot or raspberry, for a new twist on this classic dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen meatballs instead of making them from scratch?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs. Simply heat them according to the package instructions and toss them in the grape jelly sauce.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the sauces are gluten-free.
3. Can I cook these meatballs in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After baking, you can transfer the meatballs to a slow cooker with the sauce and keep them on low until you are ready to serve.
Enjoy making and sharing your Grape Jelly Meatballs! They are sure to become a favorite in your home.
Grape Jelly Meatballs
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 15 ounces grape jam
- 15 ounces Sweet Red Chili Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
For the Meatballs
- 2 pounds ground chuck
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (granulated garlic)
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
Instructions
Preparing the Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, combine grape jam, sweet red chili sauce, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and white vinegar.
- Stir well and heat over medium heat until the mixture is warm. Set aside.
Making the Meatballs
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground chuck, breadcrumbs, milk, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and eggs.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the warm grape jelly sauce and serve.
