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5 from 1 vote

Perfectly Cooked Meatballs in Grape Jelly and Sweet Chili Sauce

Simple to make homemade meatballs browned perfectly and simmered in a 2-ingredient sauce of grape jelly and sweet chili sauce. Make 32 (2tbs) meatballs.
Print Recipe
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:1 hour
Total Time:1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste 1/2 - 1 teaspoons of each
  • 1 cup grape jelly
  • 1 cup sweet & sour sauce
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  • Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients until well combined, being careful not to overwork the meat mixture, which can result in tough meatballs.
  • Shape the Meatballs: Scoop out portions of the meat mixture and roll them into bite-sized meatballs. Aim for consistency in size to ensure even cooking.
  • Brown the Meatballs: In a skillet or frying pan over medium heat, brown meatballs on all sides until they develop a golden-brown crust. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
  • Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the grape jelly and sweet & sour sauce until well combined. This creates a unique and flavorful sauce that will elevate the meatballs.
  • Simmer the Meatballs in Sauce: Transfer the browned meatballs to a large pot or slow cooker, then pour the grape jelly and sweet & sour sauce mixture over them.
  • Simmer to Perfection: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce over low to medium heat. Adjust the heat as needed and simmer for 20 minutes to an hour, depending on your desired texture and flavor.
  • Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatballs. Ensure they reach at least 165°F (74°C).
  • Adjust Seasoning and Flavor: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You can add more sweet & sour sauce, salt, or pepper to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
  • Let Them Rest: Once the meatballs are cooked to perfection, let them rest in the sauce for a few minutes. This allows them to absorb the delicious flavors.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Plate the meatballs with a generous ladle of the grape jelly and sweet & sour sauce. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Notes:

-When browning the meatballs in the skillet, let them cook undisturbed until they release easily from the bottom of the pan. You can use a little olive oil so they don't stick, but they will move on their own if you are patient. 
-Easy meatballs can also be browned in a hot oven. Place them on a lined baking sheet tray and bake meatballs at 400 degrees for 20 minutes check the temperature often after that. 
-Size and shape will dictate how many meatballs you make and how long they cook. Feel free to make large meatballs - increase the cooking time.
-Go ahead and make Italian-style meatballs with ground pork, ground turkey meatballs, or ground chicken meatballs.  
Author: Sarah