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–+ servings
Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a classic dish that combines savory meat with a tangy, fruity sauce, a hallmark of mid-20th-century American cuisine. This recipe likely emerged during the 1950s–1970s, when sweet-and-sour flavors were popularized by Chinese-American takeout and homemakers alike. The use of cranberry jelly, honey, and vinegar creates a nostalgic flavor reminiscent of potluck dinners and church cookbooks. The simplicity and large yield of this recipe make it ideal for family gatherings, holidays, and retro-themed dinner nights.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 5 lbs ground chuck
  • 3 eggs
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Pepper (to taste)
  • Garlic (minced or powdered, to taste)
  • ½ cup cornflake (crumbs)

Sauce

  • ½ cup honey
  • 14 oz can cranberry jelly
  • 1 cup cranberry berries
  • ¼ cup vinegar (per 3 quarts sauce)

Optional:

  • Assorted fruit (if desired for flavor)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Make the Meatball Mixture

  • In a large bowl, combine 5 lbs of ground chuck with 3 eggs.
  • Add salt, pepper, garlic, and ½ cup cornflake crumbs.
  • Mix thoroughly until well blended.

Step 2: Form and Parboil Meatballs

  • Form mixture into approximately 100 small meatballs.
  • Place meatballs into a large pot of boiling water and parboil until they turn grey.
  • Remove with a straining spoon and place in a colander.
  • Rinse with hot water and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

  • In a saucepan, combine ½ cup honey, 1 can of cranberry jelly, 1 can of cranberry berries, and ¼ cup vinegar.
  • Heat and stir until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
  • Optional: Add chopped fruit for extra flavor.

Step 4: Simmer Meatballs in Sauce

  • Add the pre-cooked meatballs to the simmering sauce.
  • Let simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld and sauce thickens.

Tips

  • Use turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Add a splash of orange juice to the sauce for extra brightness.
  • Substitute brown sugar for honey if preferred.
  • Make ahead, meatballs and sauce can be frozen separately and reheated later.
  • Add pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 22gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2.5mg
Keyword baked beef, brunch potluck, classic comfort food, cranberry sauce, family dinner, fusion, heirloom recipe, potluck, sweet and sour, vintage
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