Are you craving a dish that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors? Look no further than sweet and sour meatballs! This delightful recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also promises to be a hit at your next family gathering or dinner party. With tender meatballs coated in a luscious sauce, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make these mouthwatering meatballs at home!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 4 meatballs) contains about 350 calories, 20g of protein, 25g of carbohydrates, and 20g of fat. This nutritional information is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix the ingredients until well combined.
4. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar in a saucepan.
8. Heat the sauce over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
9. Add the pineapple chunks to the sauce and stir to combine.
10. Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to the saucepan and coat them in the sauce.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also adjust the sweetness by using less brown sugar or opting for a sugar substitute.
Serving and Pairings
Sweet and sour meatballs pair wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven until heated through. Sweet and sour meatballs can also be frozen for up to three months; just ensure they are stored in a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to prevent tough meatballs.
– Ensure meatballs are uniformly sized for even cooking.
– Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; use two sheets if necessary.
– Always check meatballs for doneness with a meat thermometer.
– Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps them firm up.
Helpful Tips
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Experiment with different proteins or sauces to customize the dish.
– Let the meatballs sit in the sauce for a few minutes before serving for better flavor absorption.
– Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
FAQs
Can I make sweet and sour meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them just before serving.
What can I serve with sweet and sour meatballs?
Sweet and sour meatballs are great with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. They also pair well with crusty bread.
Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen meatballs. Just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions and ensure they are heated through before serving.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.
Are sweet and sour meatballs healthy?
While they can be part of a balanced meal, it’s important to watch portion sizes due to the sugar content in the sauce. Opt for lean meat and fresh ingredients for a healthier version.
Conclusion
Sweet and sour meatballs are a classic dish that brings together delightful flavors in a simple yet satisfying way. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the process of cooking and savoring this delicious dish with your loved ones!
Sweet And Sour Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 onion finely chopped
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar in a saucepan.
- Heat the sauce over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
- Add the pineapple chunks to the sauce and stir to combine.
- Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to the saucepan and coat them in the sauce.
