Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 6-8 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator, 2 months in the freezer.
Quick Answer
These sweet and sour meatballs bring together a delightful balance of flavors, perfect for any festive gathering.
Ah, the aroma of sweet and sour meatballs wafting from the kitchen—there’s something comforting about this dish that reminds me of cozy family dinners. As I prepare for the festive season here in New York City, I have a soft spot for hearty recipes that bring everyone together. Sweet and sour meatballs have become a must-have for my Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings. The balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors makes them the perfect appetizer or main dish that even the pickiest eaters will devour.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting flavors that remind you of family gatherings.
- Perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory—suitable for picky eaters.
- Easy to prepare ahead of time for busy holiday schedules.
- Versatile as an appetizer or main dish, paired wonderfully with rice or vegetables.
- Simple ingredients that create a flavorful dish everyone will love.
Ingredients
To create the magic of sweet and sour meatballs, here’s what you’ll need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Optional: Pineapple chunks
How to Make Sweet and Sour Meatballs (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to whip up delicious sweet and sour meatballs that will impress your guests.
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. I find using my hands is the best method, but be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Using a tablespoon, scoop out the mixture and roll it into golf ball-sized meatballs. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re browned and cooked through. The beautifully caramelized crust makes a world of difference!
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, whisk together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and ginger in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let the flavors meld together as the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Combine
Carefully transfer the cooked meatballs into the sauce, ensuring each one is well-coated. Allow them to simmer in the sauce for an additional 10 minutes to absorb that sweet and sour goodness.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve with toothpicks for easy grabbing. I love pairing these with steamed rice or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Meat: Be gentle when mixing the ingredients for the meatballs to avoid a dense texture.
- Skipping the Browning Step: Baking until golden brown adds flavor and texture—don’t rush this step!
- Neglecting to Taste the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness or tanginess as per your preference; everyone’s palate is different.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Consider using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- If you’re preparing these for a gathering, make them a day ahead and reheat in the sauce just before serving.
Variations
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
- Add chopped bell peppers or onions to the meat mixture for added flavor.
- Mix in a bit of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
How to Serve
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
- Serve with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
- Pair with steamed rice or a side of roasted vegetables.
- Offer alongside a dipping sauce for an added flavor boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance and combine them before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Simmer gently in the sauce to restore flavor.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw and reheat in the sauce.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Experimenting with the ratio of sweet to sour taught me that balance is key. This dish truly shines with the right amount of apple cider vinegar, and it can be adjusted based on personal preference. Each time I make these, I’m reminded how a simple recipe can become the star of my holiday table.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 24 meatballs · Serving Size: 4 meatballs
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~250 calories · 15g protein · 20g carbs · 15g fat
Delicious Sweet and Sour Meatballs for Every Gathering
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop out the mixture and roll it into golf ball-sized meatballs. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Bake the meatballs for about 20-25 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and ginger. Simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Transfer the cooked meatballs into the sauce, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow them to simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and serve with toothpicks. Enjoy with steamed rice or roasted vegetables!
Notes
FAQs
Can I make sweet and sour meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs a day ahead of time. Just make sure to reheat them gently in the sauce before serving for maximum flavor.
What can I serve with sweet and sour meatballs?
These meatballs pair wonderfully with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or can be served with toothpicks for easy hors d’oeuvres at parties.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version of the meatballs without compromising on flavor.
