Appetizer: Grape Jelly and Chili Sauce Meatballs or Lil Smokies 🍇🌶️
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Approximately 50 meatballs
Description:
This appetizer recipe is not only easy to make but also always a big hit at gatherings. Whether you prefer using mini meatballs or Lil Smokies, the combination of grape jelly and chili sauce creates a tantalizingly sweet and savory glaze that will have everyone coming back for more. You can opt for ready-made frozen cooked small meatballs or make your own using the provided recipe. Perfect for potlucks or any festive occasion! 😋
Ingredients:
- 3-5 cups grape jelly
- 1 cup chili sauce
- 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
- 1 recipe of prepared meatballs (approximately 50 small meatballs)
Instructions:
-
Prepare Sauce:
- In a pot, combine the grape jelly with the chili sauce over medium heat.
- Stir in the cayenne pepper for a hint of spice.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 45 minutes, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
-
Prepare Meatballs:
- If you are making your own meatballs, you can use the provided recipe or your preferred version.
- For the provided Parmesan meatball recipe:
- Use 2-1/2 to 3 pounds of lean ground beef or a combination of beef and ground pork for added flavor.
- Shape the mixture into approximately 1-inch balls.
-
Bake Meatballs (if making from scratch):
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the shaped meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside.
-
Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
- Once the meatballs are cooked (or if using ready-made frozen meatballs), transfer them into the prepared sauce.
- Gently stir to ensure all the meatballs are evenly coated with the sweet and savory sauce.
-
Serve and Enjoy!
- Arrange the glazed meatballs on a serving platter or in a slow cooker to keep them warm.
- Provide toothpicks or small serving utensils for easy snacking.
- Watch as your guests devour these irresistible appetizers!
Nutritional Information (per meatball):
- Calories: 61.8
- Fat Content: 0g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 187.5mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 15.2g
- Fiber Content: 1g
- Sugar Content: 10.6g
- Protein Content: 0.4g
Keywords:
Christmas, Weeknight, < 60 Minutes, Easy
This appetizer is a true crowd-pleaser, combining the sweetness of grape jelly with the tanginess of chili sauce to create a flavor sensation that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking for a quick and delicious snack, these grape jelly and chili sauce meatballs (or Lil Smokies) are sure to impress! 🎉
