Are you looking for a quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious dinner recipe that’s guaranteed to impress? Look no further! These BBQ Grape Jelly Meatballs are a crowd-pleaser, combining the savory richness of meatballs with the surprisingly delightful tang of grape jelly and smoky BBQ sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, a game day snack, or even a sophisticated appetizer, this recipe is a true winner. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grape jelly
- 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (I recommend a smoky variety)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs. Mix until just combined.
Step 2: Shape and Bake
Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each meatball for even cooking.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
Bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. A meat thermometer should register 160°F (71°C) in the center.
Step 4: Create the Glaze
While the meatballs are baking, combine the grape jelly and BBQ sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until the jelly is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish
Once the meatballs are cooked, pour the grape jelly BBQ sauce over them. Toss gently to coat evenly. You can return them to the oven for another 5 minutes to allow the glaze to set, or simply serve them immediately.
Tips for the Best BBQ Grape Jelly Meatballs:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing the meatball mixture can make the meatballs tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your meatballs are cooked through and safe to eat.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of grape jelly. Conversely, add more for extra sweetness.
- Experiment with different BBQ sauces: Different BBQ sauces will provide varying levels of smokiness and spice.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Meatballs: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the meatball mixture for an extra cheesy flavor.
- Slow Cooker Meatballs: Brown the meatballs in a skillet before transferring them to a slow cooker with the glaze. Cook on low for 2-3 hours.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories Protein: Approximately 8-10 grams Fat: Approximately 7-9 grams
These BBQ Grape Jelly Meatballs are a perfect example of delicious and easy homemade cooking. Serve them as an appetizer, a main course with your favorite sides, or pack them for a satisfying lunch. They're versatile, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Enjoy!