Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy meatballs that burst with flavor, complemented by a tangy, sweet sauce that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table for a feast that promises to be as delightful as it is comforting.
Every bite of these meatballs tells a story—a nostalgic memory of family dinners where laughter echoed and plates were filled to the brim. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends, Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs are sure to steal the spotlight and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs are incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- The balance of sweet and tangy flavors makes them irresistible to both kids and adults alike.
- Their vibrant color adds an appealing touch to any dinner table setting.
- You can serve them as an appetizer or pair them with rice for a complete meal experience.
Ingredients for Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for tender meatballs without excessive grease; about 1 pound is perfect.
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs while adding texture.
- Egg: One large egg acts as a binding agent, keeping those delicious meatballs together.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder adds robust flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.
- Soy Sauce: This salty element enhances the umami flavor—low-sodium works best to keep things balanced.
For the Sauce:
- Brown Sugar: This sweetener gives the sauce its signature sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
- Ketchup: Classic and tangy, ketchup is the base of this sauce that brings everything together beautifully.
- Vinegar (Rice or Apple Cider): A splash adds acidity, balancing out the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor profile.
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
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix Your Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands (or a fork if you must) to mix until everything is well combined but don’t overwork it—no one likes tough meatballs!
Step 3: Shape Those Meatballs
Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs—around two inches in diameter should do. Place them in your prepared baking dish, giving them some space because they like to spread out during baking.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In another bowl, whisk together brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, and soy sauce until it’s smooth as silk. Pour this syrupy goodness over the meatballs in the baking dish.
Step 5: Bake Away
Pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell heavenly by now!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. Transfer meatballs onto plates and drizzle any remaining sauce over them for that luscious finish.
These Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs are perfect served on their own or alongside fluffy white rice or noodles. They make great leftovers too—if they last that long! So gather your loved ones around the table because these little flavor bombs are bound to create unforgettable moments together!
You Must Know
- Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs are not just a delicious dish; they blend savory and tangy flavors to create pure magic.
- These meatballs are not just for dinner; they can be your secret weapon for parties, potlucks, or even a cozy movie night at home.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the meatball ingredients first, shaping them into delightful spheres of joy. While your meatballs bake, simmer the sweet and sour sauce on the stovetop until it thickens beautifully. This way, everything comes together perfectly without any chaos.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also toss in crushed pineapple or bell peppers to give your dish an extra burst of flavor. The world is your oyster—well, maybe not an oyster, but you get the idea!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave for a quick fix. Easy peasy!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly round meatballs, use an ice cream scoop to portion them out evenly.
- Avoid overmixing your meat mixture to keep them tender and juicy.
- Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer—165°F is your magic number!
Sometimes I make these Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs when I want my kids to stop bickering at dinner. They magically transform into little angels when sweet and sour goodness is on their plates!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs?
To make Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs, you will need ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey), breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, soy sauce, and a blend of spices. For the sweet and sour sauce, gather ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and pineapple juice. These ingredients create a delicious balance of flavors that enhances the meatballs’ taste.
How long does it take to bake Sweet and Sour Meatballs?
Baking Sweet and Sour Meatballs typically takes around 25 to 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Preheat your oven before placing the meatballs on a baking sheet. Ensure they are fully cooked by checking that their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The baking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the meatballs tender.
Can I freeze Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs. After baking, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What can I serve with Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs?
Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs pair well with various side dishes. Consider serving them over steamed rice for a classic combination. You can also serve them with noodles or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a nutritious meal. Additionally, they make excellent appetizers at parties when served with toothpicks.
Conclusion for Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs :
Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a delightful dish combining savory meatiness with a tangy sauce. Using simple ingredients makes this recipe easy to prepare at home. With proper baking techniques, you can achieve perfectly cooked meatballs every time. Whether enjoyed as a main course or appetizer, these flavorful bites will surely please your family and guests alike. Don’t forget to experiment with different sides for a complete meal!
Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Baked Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a comforting dish filled with tender meatballs drenched in a tangy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or cheerful gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup plain or seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
- Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs (about 2 inches in diameter) and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- In another bowl, whisk together brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, and soy sauce until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the baking dish.
- Bake for about 25–30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Check doneness with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C).
- Let cool slightly before serving. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the meatballs for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - Substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. - Add crushed pineapple or bell peppers to enhance flavor and texture. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.
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