Audrey'S Meatballs
Audrey's Meatballs are savory, flavorful meatballs made with ground beef, seasoned vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, cracker crumbs, well-beaten egg, applesauce, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs.
- Place the meatballs in a baking dish.
- Pour tomato sauce over the meatballs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian herbs to the meatball mixture. If you don't have cracker crumbs, breadcrumbs or panko can be used as a substitute. For a healthier twist, try using ground turkey instead of beef. Don't skip the applesauce; it keeps the meatballs moist and adds a hint of sweetness that balances the savory ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are delicious served over spaghetti or with a side of garlic bread. They pair beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving them with a side of Barbecue Crescent Rolls for a fun twist. For a hearty option, serve alongside mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the savory tomato sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through. You can also freeze meatballs for up to 3 months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Audrey'S Meatballs contains roughly 821 calories, with 15g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2316mg per serving (101% 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 use a different type of meat for these meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just ensure that the cooking time is adjusted if using a leaner meat to prevent dryness.
How can I make these meatballs spicier?
To add some heat, mix in red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños into the meat mixture. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce on the side or drizzle some hot sauce over the top before serving.
What can I do with leftover tomato sauce?
Leftover tomato sauce can be refrigerated for up to a week and used in various dishes. Consider using it in pasta dishes, on pizza, or in casseroles. You can also freeze the sauce in ice cube trays for easy portioning in future recipes.
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).