Jelly Meatballs BBQ and grape jelly meatballs recipe. These delectable meatballs coated in a luscious blend of barbecue sauce and grape jelly are a crowd pleasing appetizer or snack option that will elevate any gathering. With simple preparation and a burst of flavors these meatballs are sure to be a hit at your next party or family dinner.
BBQ and grape jelly meatballs are a delicious and easy appetizer or party snack. The combination of barbecue sauce and grape jelly creates a sweet and savory glaze that’s perfect for meatballs. Here’s a simple recipe to make BBQ And Grape Jelly Meatballs.
Gallery BBQ And Grape Jelly Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients BBQ and grape jelly meatballs
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef or a mixture of ground beef and pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sauce
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup grape jelly
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional for a little kick)
Instructions BBQ and grape jelly Meatballs
Make the Meatballs
1/ In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion egg salt pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
2/ Shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. You should be able to make approximately 30 meatballs from the mixture.
3/ Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can also spray the parchment paper with cooking spray.
4/ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the Meatballs
Place the baking sheet with the meatballs in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
Make the Sauce
1/ While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat combine the barbecue sauce grape jelly Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce (if using).
2/ Stir the sauce mixture until the grape jelly has completely melted and the sauce is smooth and well combined. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes allowing the flavors to meld together.
Combine the Meatballs and Sauce
1/ Once the meatballs are done baking remove them from the oven.
2/ Place the baked meatballs into a large mixing bowl, and pour the grape jelly barbecue sauce over them.
3/ Gently toss the meatballs in the sauce until they are well coated.
Serving BBQ jelly meatballs in oven
Transfer the meatballs to a serving platter or a slow cooker to keep them warm during your gathering.
Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
These BBQ and grape jelly meatballs are sweet tangy and savory making them a crowd pleaser at parties and gatherings. Enjoy!
Tips And Tricks To Ensure Your BBQ And Grape Jelly Meatballs Turn Out Perfectly
Meatball Consistency: When mixing the meatball ingredients be sure to combine them thoroughly but avoid overmixing as it can make the meatballs tough. Use a light touch when forming the meatballs to keep them tender.
Uniform Size: Try to make your meatballs roughly the same size to ensure even cooking. Using a cookie scoop or your hands can help with this.
Baking Method: Baking the meatballs in the oven is a healthier and less messy alternative to frying. Place them on a baking sheet with some space between them to allow for even browning.
Sauce Customization: Adjust the amount of grape jelly and barbecue sauce to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter sauce add more jelly for a spicier kick and increase the hot sauce.
Warming: If you’re making these for a party or event keep the cooked meatballs warm in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting. This way they’ll stay hot and saucy throughout your gathering.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs and sauce separately in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake the meatballs and heat the sauce. Combine them just before serving.
Garnish: Don’t forget the garnish! Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a burst of color and freshness making the dish even more appealing.
Serve with Toothpicks: If you’re serving these as finger food at a party provide toothpicks or small skewers to make it easier for guests to pick up the meatballs without making a mess.
Pairing Suggestions: These meatballs pair wonderfully with other appetizers such as vegetable platters cheese and crackers or a refreshing dip like ranch dressing for balance.
Cleanup: To make cleanup easier use parchment paper on your baking sheet or consider using a disposable slow cooker liner if you plan to keep the meatballs warm in a slow cooker.
By following these tips and tricks you’ll be well prepared to make delicious BBQ and grape jelly meatballs that will be a hit at your next event or gathering.
Nutrition Facts
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for BBQ and grape jelly meatballs per serving and note that these values can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use and the size of your meatballs
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – approximately 3 meatballs)
- Calories: 220-250 kcal
- Protein: 10-12 grams
- Fat: 10-12 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3-4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 22-25 grams
- Sugars: 14-16 grams
- Fiber: 0-1 gram
- Sodium: 300-400 mg
- Cholesterol: 40-50 mg
Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the type and leaness of ground meat the specific brands of barbecue sauce and grape jelly used and the size of your meatballs. If you have specific dietary concerns or need precise nutritional information it’s a good idea to calculate the nutrition facts based on the exact ingredients you use.
Additionally, you can make this recipe slightly healthier by using lean ground meat and opting for reduced sugar or sugar free grape jelly and barbecue sauce.
(FAQs) about BBQ and Grape Jelly Meatballs Recipe
What is the BBQ Jelly Meatballs recipe?
The BBQ and Grape Jelly Meatballs recipe is a delightful appetizer or party snack that combines the savory flavors of barbecue sauce with the sweetness of grape jelly. It typically involves meatballs cooked in a sauce made from a mixture of barbecue sauce and grape jelly, resulting in a unique and flavorful dish.
What ingredients are needed for BBQ and Grape Jelly Meatballs?
The main ingredients include pre-cooked meatballs, barbecue sauce, and grape jelly. Optionally, you may add other seasonings like garlic powder, soy sauce, or hot sauce to enhance the flavor.
Can I use homemade meatballs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Whether you choose store-bought or homemade meatballs, the recipe is versatile enough to accommodate either. If using homemade meatballs, ensure they are fully cooked before adding to the sauce.
How do I make the BBQ and Grape Jelly sauce?
To make the sauce, simply mix equal parts barbecue sauce and grape jelly in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until the jelly is fully melted and the mixture is well combined. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more jelly or barbecue sauce according to your taste.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Combine the meatballs and sauce in the slow cooker, set it to low heat, and let them simmer for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld. It’s a convenient option for parties or gatherings.
What are some variations of the BBQ and Grape Jelly Meatballs recipe?
You can customize the recipe by adding a variety of ingredients such as chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, or red pepper flakes for a spicier kick. Some variations also include pineapple chunks or hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Can I use a different type of jelly or jam?
While grape jelly is the classic choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other fruit jellies or jams, such as apricot, apple, or orange. This allows you to personalize the flavor profile to suit your preferences.
How should I serve BBQ and Grape Jelly Meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile and can be served as an appetizer, party snack, or even as a main course when paired with rice or noodles. Consider garnishing with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an added touch.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for preparing ahead. You can cook the meatballs and make the sauce in advance, storing them separately. Combine and reheat when ready to serve.
Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
The recipe can be adapted for various dietary preferences by choosing lean meat, using a gluten-free barbecue sauce, or opting for plant-based meat alternatives. Always check the product labels for allergen information.
Enjoy experimenting with this BBQ and Grape Jelly Meatballs recipe, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own twists and flavors!
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