B.B. Meat Balls
Savory meatballs with a hint of Worcestershire and ketchup, complemented by minced onions and oatmeal, perfect for hearty family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, oatmeal, milk, minced onions, salt, pepper, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and minced onion.
- Mix until well blended.
- Form the mixture into meatballs of desired size and place them on a baking sheet.
- In a small saucepan, combine catsup, water, and vinegar if using; stir well.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs or serve on the side.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 30 to 45 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like parsley or Italian seasoning into the meat mixture. If you don't have oatmeal, breadcrumbs can be a suitable substitute. Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking. If you're in a hurry, you can also cook them in a slow cooker for a more tender result, similar to Patti'S Porcupines.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over a bed of cooked pasta or alongside mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. For a fun appetizer, consider serving them with toothpicks and a dipping sauce, much like Pat'S Appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. They can also be reheated in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of B.B. Meat Balls contains roughly 551 calories, with 18g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), iron (64% of the Daily Value), and protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2118mg per serving (92% 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 baking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a mix of soy sauce and vinegar for a similar flavor profile. Adding a dash of hot sauce can also enhance the taste, making it a great alternative for beef recipes.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The best way to ensure meatballs are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Alternatively, cut one open to check that it's no longer pink inside and the juices run clear.
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).