Sweet and Spicy Meatballs or Lil Smokies
Delight your guests with these Sweet and Spicy Meatballs or Lil Smokies, a crowd-pleasing appetizer that's perfect for any occasion! This recipe is incredibly simple, whether you choose to use frozen cooked small meatballs or Lil Smokies sausages. For an added personal touch, you can prepare your own meatballs using lean ground beef or a mix of beef and pork, following the enclosed Parmesan meatball recipe. With an enticing combination of grape jelly and chili sauce, this dish brings together sweet and savory flavors that are sure to impress. Ideal for potlucks, parties, or cozy family gatherings, these meatballs are a surefire hit!
N/A
Servings
60
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen cooked small meatballs or Lil Smokies
3-5 lbs (None (if using frozen))
Grape jelly
1 (32 ounce) jar (None)
Chili sauce
2 (12 ounce) jars (None)
Cayenne pepper
1 pinch (Optional)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, mix the grape jelly and chili sauce over medium heat until well combined.
2
Add the frozen cooked meatballs or Lil Smokies into the sauce, ensuring they are coated thoroughly.
3
Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and the meatballs are heated through.
4
If preparing homemade meatballs using the Parmesan meatball recipe, combine 2-1/2 to 3 pounds of lean ground beef or a combination of beef and ground pork in a bowl.
5
Shape the meat mixture into approximately 1-inch balls, and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes or until they are fully cooked and golden brown.
7
Once ready, transfer the meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer for a few additional minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
3
Fat
6
Carbs
2.4
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sweet and Spicy Meatballs or Lil Smokies recipe?
It is a crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring meatballs or sausages coated in a sweet and savory sauce made from grape jelly and chili sauce.
What are the main ingredients for the sauce?
The sauce is made using one 32-ounce jar of grape jelly and two 12-ounce jars of chili sauce.
Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use 3-5 lbs of frozen cooked small meatballs for a quick and easy preparation.
Is it possible to use Lil Smokies instead of meatballs?
Absolutely, Lil Smokies sausages can be used as a direct substitute or in addition to the meatballs.
How much meat do I need for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 to 5 pounds of meatballs or Lil Smokies.
How do I prepare the sauce?
In a large saucepan, mix the grape jelly and chili sauce over medium heat until the mixture is well combined.
How long should the meatballs simmer in the sauce?
The meatballs should simmer uncovered for approximately 45 minutes.
Should I cover the pan while the meatballs simmer?
No, the recipe recommends simmering uncovered so the sauce can thicken properly.
How often should I stir the meatballs while they cook?
You should stir the mixture occasionally to ensure even coating and prevent sticking.
Can I make my own meatballs for this recipe?
Yes, you can prepare homemade meatballs using lean ground beef or a combination of beef and ground pork.
What temperature should I bake homemade meatballs?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for baking the meatballs.
How long do homemade meatballs need to bake?
Homemade meatballs should be baked for 20-25 minutes until they are fully cooked and golden brown.
What size should I make the homemade meatballs?
It is recommended to shape the meat mixture into approximately 1-inch balls.
How should I arrange meatballs on the baking sheet?
Arrange the meatballs in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly.
Can I add spice to this recipe?
Yes, you can add an optional pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick of heat.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 60 calories.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 3 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content?
Each serving contains 6 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in the meatballs?
There is 2.4 grams of protein per serving.
Is there any fiber in this dish?
This recipe does not contain a significant amount of fiber.
What occasions are these meatballs best for?
They are ideal for potlucks, parties, finger food events, or cozy family gatherings.
Do I need to thaw frozen meatballs before adding them to the sauce?
No, you can add frozen cooked meatballs directly into the sauce mixture.
What type of chili sauce should I use?
The recipe calls for standard bottled chili sauce, typically found in 12-ounce jars.
Can I use a mix of beef and pork for homemade meatballs?
Yes, using a combination of ground beef and ground pork is a great option for flavor and texture.
What is the total preparation for frozen meatballs?
There is no preparation required for the frozen meatballs; they just need to be heated through in the sauce.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe due to its simple ingredients and straightforward simmering process.
How do I know when the meatballs are ready?
They are ready when the sauce has thickened and the meatballs are thoroughly heated through after about 45 minutes of simmering.
What is the Parmesan meatball variation?
The instructions mention a Parmesan meatball recipe where you combine beef/pork with seasonings before baking.
How much grape jelly is required?
You will need one 32-ounce jar of grape jelly.
Are these meatballs served as a main dish or appetizer?
While they can be eaten any way you like, they are specifically designed as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.