What can I use instead of grape jelly for meatballs?

If you don't have grape jelly, several substitutes work well. Cranberry sauce adds a tart and festive flavor, while apricot preserves offer a slightly sweeter and fruitier taste. Other fruit preserves like peach or raspberry can also be used, but keep in mind they will alter the final flavor profile.

Should you bake or fry meatballs first?

Both baking and frying work well for sweet and sour meatballs. Baking is a healthier option, as it requires less oil and produces leaner meatballs. Frying, on the other hand, creates a crispier exterior. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference.

What is sweet and sour sauce called?

Sweet and sour sauce has different names depending on the cuisine. In Spanish, it's often called "agridulce," while in Chinese cuisine, it's known as "tangcu." Different cultures have their own variations, each with unique flavor profiles.

Why do meatballs fall apart when frying?

Meatballs can fall apart when frying for a few reasons. Make sure you're using enough binder, such as breadcrumbs or egg, in the meatball mixture. Avoid overmixing the meat, as this can make them tough and prone to crumbling. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the meatballs, and don't overcrowd the pan. This will help them cook evenly and maintain their shape.

Sweet and Sour Meatballs: Easy & Delicious in 30-Min

Description

A classic comfort food, these sweet and sour meatballs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a weeknight family dinner, potluck, or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground beef, pork, or a mixture
½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
1 large egg, lightly beaten
¼ cup finely chopped onion (yellow or white)
2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

1 (12-ounce) jar grape jelly (or cranberry sauce/apricot preserves)
½ cup chili sauce
¼ cup apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
¼ cup pineapple juice (optional)
2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs: Gently combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano (if using). Shape into 1-inch meatballs.

2. Cook the Meatballs: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes OR fry in oil over medium heat until browned and cooked through.

3. Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce: Combine all sauce ingredients in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring, until thickened (5-7 minutes). Adjust sweetness/sourness as needed.

4. Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Add cooked meatballs to the sauce. Stir to coat. Cook over low heat for 5-10 minutes.

Notes

For slow cooker: Brown meatballs, combine sauce ingredients in slow cooker, add meatballs, cook on low for 2-3 hours. For Instant Pot: Brown meatballs using sauté function, add sauce ingredients, cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, natural release for 10 minutes. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Add chopped vegetables to the meatball mixture. Adjust sauce sweetness/spiciness with brown sugar or red pepper flakes. Use different fruit preserves for variations.

Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Method: Baking, Frying, Slow Cooking, Pressure Cooking
Cuisine: American, Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe (estimated)

Keywords: sweet and sour meatballs, meatballs, sweet and sour sauce, appetizers, dinner, party food, easy recipe, quick recipe, family friendly, kid-friendly, ground beef, ground pork, crockpot, instant pot, variations