Ben'S Meat Balls
Juicy, flavorful meatballs with Italian seasoning and Parmesan, perfect for spaghetti or family dinners, offering a savory, comforting taste with aromatic herbs and cheese.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients and make 2-inch meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs quickly in hot olive oil.
- Cook the meatballs in spaghetti sauce for 2 hours on low heat.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding finely chopped onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute. Ensure your meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking. Browning them quickly in hot olive oil helps develop a delicious crust, enhancing the overall taste. Pair these meatballs with your favorite Italian recipes for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over a bed of spaghetti for a classic dish, or alongside garlic bread for a hearty meal. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh salad for a lighter option. Consider serving them with your favorite marinara sauce or atop a sub roll for a delicious meatball sandwich. They are versatile and can complement a variety of sides.
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 saucepan over low heat with a bit of sauce to prevent drying out, or microwave them for 1-2 minutes until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ben'S Meat Balls contains roughly 116 calories, with 5g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef. Keep in mind that these meats may require slightly different cooking times, and you might want to add a little more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
To make the meatballs gluten-free, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the Parmesan cheese, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
What can I do if my meatballs fall apart during cooking?
If your meatballs are falling apart, consider adding a bit more bread crumbs or an additional egg to help bind the mixture. Make sure to mix the ingredients well but avoid overmixing, as that can lead to tough meatballs.
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).