Charleston Meat Balls
Savory Charleston meatballs packed with beef, ketchup, and fresh vegetables—perfect for a quick family dinner or game‑day snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix 1 lb finely ground beef, 1 egg, 1/2 cup cracker meal, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined.
- Fold in 1/4 cup ketchup, finely chopped onion, and finely chopped green pepper.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, turning halfway through for even browning.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like parsley or oregano into the meat mixture. If you don't have cracker meal, crushed breadcrumbs can be a good substitute. Make sure to finely chop the onion to ensure even distribution and tenderness. For a variation, try mixing in some finely chopped green pepper for an extra crunch, similar to the filling in Meat And Vegetable Stuffed Peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Charleston Meat Balls with a side of mashed potatoes or over pasta for a hearty meal. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For a comforting dish, consider serving them alongside Old Fashion Heart Warming Casserole for a complete dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be careful not to overheat as they can become dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Charleston Meat Balls contains roughly 611 calories, with 11g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (59% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2399mg per serving (104% 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?
Yes, these meatballs freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen for about 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
What can I use instead of ketchup?
If you prefer not to use ketchup, you can substitute it with barbecue sauce or a homemade blend of tomato sauce with a touch of vinegar and sugar. This will give a similar sweet and tangy flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the meatballs.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape the meatballs and bake them when you're ready to serve. This is perfect for meal prepping or for a busy weeknight dinner.
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).