Barbara'S Meatballs
Barbara's Meatballs are a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Made with tender ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a hint of Parmesan, these meatballs are sure to please everyone at the table, especially when served with a rich spaghetti sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak bread in water for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add eggs and mix well.
- Add remaining ingredients.
- With wet hands, form meat mixture into small balls.
- Bake in pan at 350° for 20 minutes. Add to spaghetti sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider substituting ground turkey for the beef. If you're out of bread, crushed crackers or oats work well. Make sure to soak the bread just long enough for it to absorb moisture without becoming mushy. Fresh parsley can be replaced with dried, but use half the amount. For added flavor, consider incorporating chopped onions or bell peppers into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over spaghetti with your favorite marinara sauce for a classic dish, or try them in a sub with melted cheese for a delicious meatball sandwich. They also pair beautifully with Potluck Lasagne or as part of a hearty Italian spread. A side salad or garlic bread complements the meal perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish with a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out and heat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. Alternatively, microwave them on a low setting until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbara'S Meatballs contains roughly 694 calories, with 18g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (82% of the Daily Value), calcium (67% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 701mg per serving (30% 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. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked from frozen; just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile and can be served over pasta, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer. Pair them with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a balanced meal, or enjoy them with a side of Baked Stuffed Shells for a filling Italian feast.
How do I know when the meatballs are done baking?
You can check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Alternatively, cut one meatball in half; it should be no longer pink inside. The edges will also be slightly browned. This ensures they're safe to eat while remaining juicy.
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).