Applesauce Meatballs
Juicy meatballs infused with applesauce and corn flakes, baked in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground chuck, corn flakes, applesauce, egg, chopped onion, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs.
- Place the meatballs in a baking dish and pour tomato sauce over them.
- Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes until cooked through and sauce is bubbling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using ground turkey instead of ground chuck for a lighter option. If you don't have corn flakes, crushed breadcrumbs or oats can work as a substitute. Adjust the seasoning and add herbs like oregano or basil for extra flavor. Make sure to mix gently to keep the meatballs tender. For a sweeter touch, consider adding a dash of cinnamon to the applesauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these applesauce meatballs over a bed of rice or noodles for a hearty meal. They pair nicely with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, or a fresh salad for a balanced dish. For a comforting twist, try serving them alongside a slice of Old Fashioned Johnnycake to soak up the tomato sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist, or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until heated through. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Meatballs contains roughly 998 calories, with 29g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (58% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (49% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1066mg per serving (46% 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 make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Shape them into meatballs and bake just before serving. This saves time and allows the flavors to meld together. If you prefer, you can also freeze the uncooked meatballs and bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you want to switch things up, you can use barbecue sauce or a homemade marinara sauce instead of tomato sauce. For a creamier texture, try using a cream of mushroom soup. Just keep in mind that each alternative will change the flavor profile of the dish, so select one that suits your taste preferences.
Are these meatballs suitable for a low-carb diet?
To make these meatballs more suitable for a low-carb diet, you can replace corn flakes with crushed pork rinds or omit them altogether. Additionally, using a sugar-free or low-sugar applesauce will help reduce carbs. Pairing them with vegetables instead of pasta or rice can also keep the meal low in carbohydrates while still being satisfying.
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).