Chili Meatballs
Juicy chili-flavored meatballs baked with a rich tomato juice sauce, perfect for a hearty family dinner or casual gathering, offering bold spices and savory goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350° F.
- Combine ground beef, minced onions, salt, garlic powder (if using), chili powder, wheat germ, and 1/4 cup of tomato juice in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into 18 meatballs.
- Arrange the meatballs in a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish.
- Pour the remaining 3/4 cup of tomato juice over the meatballs.
- Cover the dish and bake for 1 hour, adding more juice if necessary.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture. If you're looking for a healthier twist, you can substitute half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Additionally, using fresh garlic instead of garlic powder can enhance the flavor. For a gluten-free option, replace wheat germ with ground oats.
Serving Suggestions
These chili meatballs pair beautifully with rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving them in a sub roll topped with cheese, creating a delicious meatball sandwich. They also complement well with recipes like Connie R'S Chili.
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 with a splash of tomato juice, covering to retain moisture, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350° F for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Meatballs contains roughly 51 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1654mg per serving (72% 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 chili meatballs?
Yes, these meatballs freeze well. After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.
What can I use instead of wheat germ?
If you need a substitute for wheat germ, ground oats or breadcrumbs can work well in this recipe. For a nutty flavor, you might also consider using ground flaxseed. Just ensure that the substitute fits your dietary needs, especially if gluten-free is a concern.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 160° F for ground beef. Alternatively, you can cut one open to check that it's no longer pink in the center 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).