why make this recipe
Sweet Spicy Grape Beef Meatballs are a fantastic dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. They are quick to make and use simple ingredients. These meatballs are perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a weeknight meal. With minimal preparation and cooking time, they deliver a burst of flavor that everyone will love. Plus, they can easily be made in one pot!
how to make Sweet Spicy Grape Beef Meatballs
Ingredients :
- 32 oz frozen fully cooked beef meatballs
- 1 cup Smuckers grape jelly
- 1½ cups Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Directions :
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of grape jelly and 1½ cups of barbecue sauce. Stir until well combined and smooth.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of chili garlic sauce. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until the sauce is heated through and glossy. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Add 32 oz of frozen fully cooked beef meatballs to the simmering sauce. Gently stir to ensure each meatball is evenly coated.
- Cover the saucepan loosely and continue to cook over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened to a glaze-like consistency.
- Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives. Serve warm.
how to serve Sweet Spicy Grape Beef Meatballs
Serve these meatballs warm in a large bowl, allowing guests to help themselves. You can also serve them with toothpicks for easy eating. Pair them with a simple side salad, some veggie sticks, or rice for a complete meal. They also work great as a snack during game day or at gatherings.
how to store Sweet Spicy Grape Beef Meatballs
To store leftover meatballs, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just be sure to place them in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warm.
tips to make Sweet Spicy Grape Beef Meatballs
- For a more intense flavor, let the sauce simmer longer before adding the meatballs.
- If you like your meatballs spicier, add more chili garlic sauce or even some crushed red pepper flakes.
- Fresh herbs make a big difference, so don’t skip the parsley or chives on top!
variation (if any)
You can adjust the sweetness and spice by using different types of barbecue sauce or grape jelly. Try adding a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick or switch to maple syrup for a different sweet flavor. If you prefer turkey or chicken, substitute with fully cooked turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter version.
FAQs
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh meatballs, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.
What can I serve this dish with?
Best pairing options are rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the meatballs.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the meatballs and sauce ahead of time, then store them in the fridge or freezer. Reheat when ready to serve.
Sweet Spicy Grape Beef Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of grape jelly and 1½ cups of barbecue sauce. Stir until well combined and smooth.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of chili garlic sauce. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until the sauce is heated through and glossy.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Add the frozen beef meatballs to the simmering sauce. Gently stir to ensure each meatball is evenly coated.
- Cover the saucepan loosely and continue to cook over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened.
- Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives. Serve warm.