The 4th - Fun and Food

We had a fabulous time on the 4th.  Our daughter hosted a party at her house for several friends and family.  Our son was able to drive back in for the fun, too.  There was a lot of food and laughter until time to move our chairs further out along the driveway in order to see the fireworks show that started at 9:30 pm.

Kim had her house beautifully decorated for the 4th.  I didn't take as many photos of her decor as I did the food.  Guess what's most important to me?  lol  

The food was plentiful and delicious.  Every one loves the pinwheels she makes.  The pasta salad and Mexican dip in the background were 2 dishes I brought as well as a pan of meatballs.

The weather turned out to be perfect, but there was rain in the forecast so grilling wasn't in the plans this year.  I made meatballs using a tried and true recipe that I've had for many years.  Everyone loved them, in fact I think you can see a couple of spots in the photo where 2 or 3 had been fished out for sampling before the party started.  :)

Barbequed Meatballs

Meatballs:

3 pounds ground beef

1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk

1 cup oatmeal

1 cup cracker crumbs

2 eggs

1/2 cup chopped onion

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

2 teaspoons salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

2 teaspoons chili powder

Sauce:

2 cups catsup

1 cup brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke or to taste

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 cup chopped onion

To make meatballs, combine all ingredients (mixture

will be soft) and shape into walnut-sized balls.  Place

meatballs in a single layer on wax paper-lined cookie

sheets; freeze until solid.  Store frozen meatballs in

freezer bags until ready to cook.  To make sauce, 

combine all ingredients and stir until sugar is dissolved.

Place frozen meatballs in a 13x9 inch baking dish or pan;

pour on the sauce.  Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour or

until done.  Makes 80 meatballs.

I didn't freeze this batch of meatballs and it still took

nearly an hour baking time.  I also never come out 

with 80 meatballs since I must make mine a little 

larger than walnut-sized. ☺ 

Throwaway dinnerware was used for easy cleanup.  Some ate out on the deck and others inside around the table.  There was so much food as others brought dishes, too.  One brought some yummy dips and my Mexican dip was a big hit, too.   It's quick and easy as is the pasta salad.  Many asked for my recipes and I'll share another time  how to make the pasta and dip.

Have a terrific day and weekend!  I've not been able to be online much lately but I'll be visiting as soon as I can. 

Happy Friday to you!

xo Cheryl