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Everyone loves meatballs. Whether piled atop a heaping helping of spaghetti or served skewered on toothpicks as an appetizer, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. In fact, here in the Jones household, we think the only thing better than meatballs… is pepper jelly meatballs!
Nothing adds zing and zip to a plate of meatballs like a delectable homemade pepper jelly sauce or glaze. In fact, we love this dish so much that we included a recipe for slow cooker pepper jelly meatballs in the list of our favorite slow cooker meals!
Do you want to make your own recipe for pepper jelly meatballs better than ever? If so, keep reading, because Grandma Jones has got some very special advice just for you.
We all know that the best meatballs of all are the ones our grandmas make for us. There’s just something special about pepper jelly meatballs when they come out of grandma’s kitchen.
If you want to know how to make truly unforgettable meatballs, you’re in for a treat. Grandma Jones shared her secret for scrumptious pepper jelly meatballs, and now we’re sharing those secrets with you!
Here are the four most important things to know keep in mind when making pepper jelly meatballs:
1. The Meat
The first and most important factor to consider when making pepper jelly meatballs is, well, the meat! What kind of meat you choose will play a major role in how tasty, tender, and moist the final product comes out.
If you prefer lean meats like chicken or turkey, be careful not to overcook them, as they can easily become dry and crumbly. Fattier meats like beef, lamb, and pork are usually a better choice. Better yet, try Grandma Jones’ favorite: a combination of all three!
2. The Method
How you cook pepper jelly meatballs is just as important as what you put in them. Most people either fry their meatballs in a pan, bake them in the oven, or use a slow cooker to broil them. Each method has pros and cons.
For example, frying is faster and will allow the meatballs to develop a crispy crust; however, your meatballs will also be a bit oilier and fattier. If you’re looking for a healthier option, baking is the way to go. Using a slow cooker, meanwhile, is a good way to ensure your meatballs are fall-apart tender. It also helps prevent overcooking.
3. The Seasonings
If you really want your pepper jelly meatballs to stand out, it’s important to get the seasonings right. Don’t stick with just meat, eggs, and breadcrumbs; adding in some herbs and spices can help create a deeper, stronger, mouth-watering flavor profile.
Fresh garlic, parsley, and oregano are a good way to create a solid foundation. Adding extra flavorings, like red pepper flakes or even a little bit of Parmesan, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or Romano cheese, will also give your meatballs a more unique and memorable taste. Don’t be afraid to season aggressively; there’s no such thing as a “too flavorful” meatball.
4. The Sauce
You can’t have pepper jelly meatballs without pepper jelly! Whether you prefer classic tomato sauce, tangy BBQ sauce, or a light glaze, Grandma Jones’ Pepper Jelly is a great way to add sweetness and spice that is sure to impress your guests.
Additionally, if you’re looking for an alternative to traditional sauced or glazed meatballs, consider including pepper jelly right in your pre-cooked meat/seasonings mix. Believe it or not, pepper jelly actually works great as a binding agent in place of eggs or milk.
Here at Grandma Jones’ Pepper Jelly, we’re proud to offer a wide variety of dips and spreads that make for an enticing ingredient in all kinds of dishes. Experiment with different flavors to find which ones work best for you.
Use our jalapeno pepper jelly to make hot-but-not-too-hot jalapeno jelly meatballs. Or turn the spice up with our fiery Habanero pepper jelly. Prefer to keep your snacking on the sweet side? Try our cranberry pepper jelly instead. No matter what your heat or flavor preference, we’ve got something to please all palates!
Discover the culinary joys of Grandma Jones’ Pepper Jelly. Order yourself a jar today!