Sweet-and-sour beef meatballs over white rice with bell peppers, cucumber slices, and apples on a side plate

Sweet-and-Sour Meatballs

Maybe the easiest meatball recipe ever! Serve over rice with whatever fruits or vegetables you have on hand, or keep warm in a small crockpot for an easy appetizer.

I used to be afraid to touch raw meat 😂 Now it doesn’t bother me at all—and it’s so much easier to mix everything with your hands!

Watch the Recipe Reel on Instagram

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 2 pounds ground beef (Larson Angus Beef, of course! 😉)
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • ½ cup finely minced onion
  • Hamburger seasoning, to taste
  • A little salt, to taste

Sauce

  • 1 jar chili sauce
  • 1 jar grape jelly
  • Cornstarch mixed with a little cold water, optional, for thickening

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven. Preheat to 400°F.

  2. Mix and shape. Gently mix all the meatball ingredients until combined. Roll into small meatballs and place on a rimmed baking sheet.

  3. Bake. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until cooked through and the centers reach 160°F.

  4. Make the sauce. Meanwhile, combine the chili sauce and grape jelly in a saucepan. Heat gently, stirring until smooth.

  5. Thicken if desired. Stir in a little cornstarch mixed with cold water. Simmer until thickened.

  6. Combine. Add the cooked meatballs and toss gently to coat.

Serving options

Make it a meal: Serve over rice with your favorite sides. I usually use whatever fruits or vegetables I have on hand!

Appetizer option: Transfer the hot meatballs and sauce to a small crockpot and keep warm for serving.

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