Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a delightful explosion of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs coated in a tangy, glossy sauce that’s somehow both sweet and savory, creating an aromatic experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering scents. hearty white bean soup Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just craving a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish brings the party to your plate. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Garlic Shrimp recipe.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs
- How to Make Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What ingredients are needed for Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs?
- How long does it take to cook Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs?
- Can I make Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs ahead of time?
- What can I serve with Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs?
- Conclusion for Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs :
- 📖 Recipe Card
Picture this: you’re at a cozy get-together, laughter echoing around the room while platters of these scrumptious meatballs circulate. They disappear as fast as they appear, leaving you and your guests raving about the flavors. This dish is perfect for those moments when you want something simple yet impressive. Get ready for a flavor adventure that you’ll want to repeat time and time again!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These baked sweet and sour meatballs are quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Their irresistible flavor profile combines sweetness with zesty undertones that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- The vibrant colors of the sauce make them visually appealing on any table setting, ensuring they catch everyone’s eye.
- They are incredibly versatile, suitable as an appetizer or main dish for any occasion.
Ingredients for Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excessive grease; about 1 pound works perfectly.
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs together and add texture.
- Egg: One large egg acts as a binder to keep everything together while adding moisture.
- Onion: Finely chopped onion brings sweetness and depth; yellow onions work great here.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds aromatic flavor; one or two cloves will do the trick.
For the Sauce:
- Ketchup: The base of our sauce; it brings sweetness and tanginess all in one bottle.
- Soy Sauce: Adds umami richness; opt for low-sodium to control salt levels.
- Brown Sugar: This sweetener balances out the savory elements with its deep molasses flavor.
- Pineapple Juice: A splash of pineapple juice enhances the sweet component while adding fruity notes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and coat it lightly with nonstick cooking spray—this helps prevent any sticky disasters.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Get your hands in there (yes, it’s messy but fun) and mix until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs—about two tablespoons each. Place them in your prepared baking dish with enough space between them so they can brown nicely.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice until smooth. Pour this luscious mixture over your meatballs in the baking dish.
Step 5: Bake Away!
Pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown on top.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer those tasty meatballs onto plates or serve them right from the baking dish. Drizzle with extra sauce if desired—because who doesn’t love extra sauce?
Now that you have mastered Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs, be prepared for applause from family and friends as they devour every last bite! Enjoy this delightful dish at gatherings or simply indulge yourself after a long day you deserve it!
You Must Know
- Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs are not just delicious; they’re also a fun way to bring everyone together.
- The sweet tanginess paired with savory goodness makes them a hit at parties and family dinners alike.
- Plus, they are easy to whip up any day of the week!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, preheat your oven to 400°F while you mix the meatball ingredients. Form the meatballs and place them on a baking sheet. Bake until golden brown, then prepare your sauce. Combine the sweet and sour elements in a pot, simmer for flavor, and toss with meatballs.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also add chopped vegetables into the meatball mixture or experiment with various sauces. Pineapple chunks add a delightful twist if you’re feeling adventurous!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave for quick enjoyment without losing moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh breadcrumbs instead of dry ones for added moisture and flavor.
- Make sure not to overmix your meatball mixture; this keeps them tender.
- Lastly, let the baked meatballs rest before serving; it helps to lock in those juicy flavors!
Sometimes, I think my friends show up just for these meatballs! At my last gathering, they vanished faster than I could say “sweet and sour.” Their faces lit up with joy as they devoured every last bite!
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs?
To make Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs, you need ground meat (beef or pork), breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and bell peppers. For the sauce, use ketchup and additional vinegar to achieve that classic sweet and sour flavor. flavorful beef rendang recipe Optional additions include sesame seeds for garnish and fresh herbs for enhanced flavor. Ensure all ingredients are fresh to make your meatballs tender and flavorful.
How long does it take to cook Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs?
Cooking Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs typically takes about 30-40 minutes in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before placing the meatballs inside. Bake them for approximately 25 minutes until they are cooked through. The sauce can be added in the last few minutes of baking to ensure it caramelizes nicely without burning.
Can I make Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs ahead of time. Form the meatballs and place them on a baking sheet. You can freeze them uncooked for up to three months or refrigerate them for a day before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake from frozen or chilled while adjusting cooking times as needed for best results.
What can I serve with Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs?
Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs pair wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving them over steamed rice or alongside fluffy quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. You could also serve them with stir-fried vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For an appetizer option, serve them with toothpicks at parties!
Conclusion for Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs :
Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs deliver a delightful combination of flavors that everyone will love. Their savory-sweet taste makes them perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to gatherings with friends. savory mushroom pot pie With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, these meatballs are not only delicious but also convenient to make ahead of time. Enjoy this crowd-pleasing dish that brings joy to your table!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a mouthwatering dish that combines juicy meatballs with a tangy, glossy sauce, making them perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare, these meatballs deliver a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that will leave your guests coming back for more. Ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and coat a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice. Pour over the meatballs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve immediately with extra sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
