Are you craving a delicious, easy meal that's both comforting and exciting? Look no further! This Meatball Barbecue Sauce Grape Jelly recipe is a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer. The unexpected sweetness of grape jelly perfectly complements the savory depth of the barbecue sauce, creating a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals without sacrificing taste. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (you can also use a blend of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup your favorite barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup grape jelly
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
- Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil (optional) to prevent sticking.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides, cooking for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 3: Create the Sweet and Savory Sauce
- Once the meatballs are browned, add the barbecue sauce and grape jelly to the skillet.
- Stir to coat the meatballs evenly in the sauce.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve these delicious meatballs over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or as an appetizer with toothpicks. The sweet and tangy sauce is irresistible!
Cooking Tips for the Best Meatballs:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops the gluten in the meat, resulting in tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your meatballs are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of grape jelly. Conversely, add more for an extra burst of sweetness.
- Add some heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meatball mixture or the sauce.
Variations:
- Italian Meatballs: Substitute Italian seasoning for the oregano and basil. Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Spicy Meatballs: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the meatball mixture for some extra heat.
- Turkey Meatballs: Use ground turkey instead of ground beef for a leaner option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input your exact ingredients and serving sizes. However, you can expect this recipe to be relatively high in protein and moderate in fat and carbohydrates.
This Meatball Barbecue Sauce Grape Jelly recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s a great example of how easy recipes can be both delicious and healthy. Try it out and let us know what you think! We're confident this will become one of your go-to quick dinner ideas.