Aunt Pearl'S Meatballs
A hearty and comforting meatball dish featuring tender beef and rice simmered in a rich tomato soup, perfect for family dinners and cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, rice, and chopped onion until well combined and form into approximately 15 meatballs.
- Place the meatballs into a 2-quart saucepan.
- Add the tomato soup to the saucepan with the meatballs.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter meatball, consider using ground turkey instead of beef. You can also add herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor. If you prefer a different sauce, try mixing in a can of Mary'S Mushroom Soup instead of tomato soup for a creamy twist. Make sure the rice is thoroughly cooked before forming the meatballs to avoid any graininess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Pearl's Meatballs over a bed of pasta or rice for a hearty meal. They pair well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a comforting touch, consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. This dish also makes a great filling for sub sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Alternatively, you can microwave them on a low setting, covered, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Pearl'S Meatballs contains roughly 271 calories, with 9g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 570mg per serving (25% 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 the meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground pork or chicken for the beef, depending on your preference. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly with different meats, so adjust accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
How can I make the meatballs more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, try adding grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. You can also sauté the chopped onion before adding it to the meat for a sweeter taste.
Can I freeze the meatballs after cooking?
Absolutely! Let the meatballs cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the reheating instructions provided.
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).