Creole Meat Balls For Spaghetti

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Juicy creole meatballs with bold spices, perfect for spaghetti or other pasta dishes, offering a flavorful twist with herbs and a touch of heat for hearty meals.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lb. ground round
  • 1 egg, slightly beaten
  • 1/2 c. bread crumbs
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 c. fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 tsp. basil
  • 1 tsp. thyme
  • 3 Tbsp. olive oil

Instructions

  1. Add egg and bread crumbs to ground meat; mix thoroughly.
  2. Add all seasonings and chopped parsley; mix thoroughly.
  3. Shape the mixture into balls with hands.
  4. Fry the meatballs until brown in olive oil.
  5. Drain on paper towels before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the meatball mixture. You can substitute the ground round with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you don't have fresh parsley, dried parsley can work in a pinch, but use less. Additionally, ensure the oil is hot before frying to achieve a nice crust on the meatballs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Creole meatballs over a bed of spaghetti and top with marinara sauce for a classic pairing. A side of garlic bread and a fresh garden salad complement the dish beautifully. For a twist, try serving them with Grandma Birdi'S Bread Pudding for dessert to round out the meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil, turning occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but be cautious not to overcook.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Creole Meat Balls For Spaghetti contains roughly 549 calories, with 59g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (119% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (90% of the Daily Value), and iron (88% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1991mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).

549 kcal 27% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 59.5g 100% DV
Total Fat 21.6g 28% DV
Carbs 33.7g 12% DV
Fiber 12.2g 43% DV
Sugar 2.4g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1990.8mg 87% DV
Potassium 1483.2mg 32% DV
Cholesterol 178.5mg 60% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 162.1mcg 18% DV
Vitamin C 81.2mg 90% DV
Calcium 513.8mg 40% DV
Iron 15.8mg 88% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 bake the meatballs instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. This method is healthier and still results in delicious meatballs. Just ensure they are cooked through and slightly browned on the outside.

What can I use instead of bread crumbs?

If you don't have bread crumbs, you can use crushed crackers or oatmeal as a substitute. Both will help bind the meatballs. Just adjust the quantity as needed, starting with a smaller amount and adding more until the mixture holds together.

How can I make these meatballs spicier?

To increase the heat, you can add more cayenne pepper or include crushed red pepper flakes in the mixture. Alternatively, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meatball mixture for an extra kick.

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).

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