Applesauce Meat Balls
Juicy meatballs infused with applesauce and spices, baked in tomato sauce for a flavorful, family-friendly dish with a hint of sweetness and savory richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients, except tomato sauce, with your hands.
- Shape the mixture into balls and place them in a baking dish.
- Pour tomato sauce over the meatballs.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger for a leaner option. If you don’t have cornflake crumbs, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can work as substitutes. Adjust the garlic and onion to your taste; adding fresh herbs like parsley can enhance flavor. Be sure to mix the ingredients gently to keep the meatballs tender.
Serving Suggestions
These applesauce meatballs make a fantastic main dish served over a bed of rice or pasta. Pair them with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. They also complement sweet-and-sour flavors, making them a great match for sides like Layered Lettuce. Consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a baking dish with a bit of tomato sauce and cover with foil, warming them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Meat Balls contains roughly 329 calories, with 7g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value), iron (10% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1491mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the meatballs before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don’t have tomato soup, you can use marinara sauce or a homemade tomato sauce. Alternatively, a mix of crushed tomatoes with a bit of seasoning can work as a substitute for similar flavor and texture.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer. They should also be browned on the outside and firm to the touch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).