Prepare to be transported back to grandma's kitchen with this irresistible sweet and sour meatball recipe that's been delighting families for generations! These mouthwatering meatballs are the perfect blend of tangy and sweet, promising a flavor explosion that will have everyone at the dinner table begging for seconds. Whether you're looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a hearty main course, these meatballs are about to become your new favorite comfort food secret weapon.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vinegar
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Gently shape the meat mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately 1-inch in diameter. Aim to create around 24-30 meatballs depending on your preferred size.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly spray or grease the pan to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the meatballs into the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally to brown evenly on all sides.
- While meatballs are cooking, prepare the sweet and sour sauce by whisking together ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar in a separate bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Once meatballs are browned, pour the prepared sauce over them in the skillet. Reduce heat to low-medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, occasionally spooning sauce over meatballs.
- Check that meatballs are cooked through by cutting one in half to ensure no pink remains. Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sauce will thicken slightly during resting.
- Serve hot, spooning extra sauce over meatballs. Best accompanied by rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles.
Tips
- Mix the meat mixture gently to avoid tough meatballs. Overmixing can make them dense and chewy.
- Use a light touch when forming meatballs - roll them between your palms quickly and don't compress too tightly.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs reach the safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- If the sauce becomes too thick while simmering, add a little water or beef broth to thin it out.
- For a make-ahead option, these meatballs freeze beautifully. Cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Want extra crispy edges? Consider finishing the meatballs under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after simmering.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 200kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 53mg
