German Style Meatballs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These German Style Meatballs are an irresistible combination of savory and sweet. The meatballs themselves are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, thanks to the addition of onion soup mix, egg, and breadcrumbs. Paired with the tangy sauerkraut and the sweet, aromatic cranberry sauce, this dish strikes the perfect balance between rich, savory goodness and the bright, zesty flavors of the sauce. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or something to serve at a gathering, this dish will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs lean ground beef (80/20, or ground venison works well, too)
• 1 large egg
• 1 package onion soup mix
• 1 cup bread crumbs (or crushed saltine crackers)
• 16 oz sauerkraut (drained)
• 14 oz whole berry cranberry sauce
• 12 oz chili sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 6 oz water (fill half of an empty Heinz bottle)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, onion soup mix, and breadcrumbs (or crushed saltine crackers). Mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Roll the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the sauerkraut, cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Once the sauce is simmering, reduce the heat and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. When the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to the saucepan with the sauce. Stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce, then let everything cook together for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the meatballs to soak up some of the sauce.
8. Serve the meatballs hot, with extra sauce on the side for dipping.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6-8 people and takes approximately 40 minutes to prepare, including both the meatball cooking time and the sauce simmering time.

Variations

• For a healthier alternative, you can use ground turkey or chicken in place of the ground beef.
• If you’re looking for more depth of flavor, try adding a tablespoon of mustard or a pinch of caraway seeds to the sauce.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, you can warm the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave them in a covered dish for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground venison instead of beef for the meatballs?

Yes, ground venison works great in this recipe and provides a leaner, slightly gamey flavor.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, then store them separately in the refrigerator. Reheat them together when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze the meatballs and sauce?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Simply store the cooked meatballs and sauce in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

4. What can I serve with German Style Meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or even a simple salad for a balanced meal.

5. Can I substitute the chili sauce with something else?

If you don’t have chili sauce, you can use ketchup with a dash of hot sauce for a similar flavor.

6. Is this recipe spicy?

No, this recipe is not particularly spicy, but the chili sauce adds a little bit of heat. If you prefer a milder dish, you can use a sweet chili sauce or reduce the amount of chili sauce.

7. How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

The meatballs should be browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

8. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can brown the meatballs in the oven or on the stovetop, then transfer them to a slow cooker. Add the sauce and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until everything is heated through.

9. Can I use a different type of bread for the breadcrumbs?

You can use any type of bread for breadcrumbs, or even store-bought panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture.

10. Can I make the sauce spicier?

Yes, you can add a bit more chili sauce, hot sauce, or even red pepper flakes to increase the heat in the sauce.

Conclusion

German Style Meatballs are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines savory meatballs with a sweet and tangy sauce. This recipe is simple to make and offers plenty of room for customization. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it at a special occasion, this meal is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors that this dish brings to the table!

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