If you're on the hunt for a dish that’s equal parts comfort food and crowd-pleaser, these Timeless Grape Jelly BBQ Meatballs are it. The sweet, tangy sauce paired with tender meatballs is sure to become a staple at your gatherings. Perfect for potlucks or an easy dinner, this recipe is as simple as it is satisfying.
Ground beef is the star of our meatballs, providing a rich and savory base. The breadcrumbs help bind everything together, ensuring our meatballs hold their shape while staying tender. A bit of onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the savory beef. Two large eggs act as a binder, adding moisture and structure to the meatballs.
Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning, enhancing the taste of the meat. A touch of milk keeps the meatballs moist and tender. Now, onto the sauce: grape jelly brings a sweet, fruity note that balances the tanginess of the BBQ sauce. A dash of Worcestershire sauce adds a savory depth, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
These meatballs are versatile and pair well with various sides. Serve them over a bed of fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the extra sauce. For a lighter option, pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. They're also fantastic as an appetizer; just provide toothpicks for easy grabbing!
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures it’s hot and ready by the time you've formed your meatballs. Grab a large bowl and combine your ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely diced onion, eggs, salt, pepper, and milk. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything until just combined. You don’t want to overwork the meat, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Next, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. You can use a small ice cream scoop or your hands for this. Aim for uniformity so they cook evenly. Arrange them on a baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Pop them in the oven and let them bake for about 20 minutes, or until they’re nicely browned and cooked through.
While your meatballs are baking, it's time to focus on the sauce. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the grape jelly, BBQ sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir occasionally, allowing the jelly to melt and the mixture to become smooth and cohesive.
Once your meatballs are out of the oven, gently add them to the saucepan. Let them simmer in the sauce for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the meatballs to soak up that delicious sauce, becoming irresistibly sticky and flavorful.
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