"Depression" Meat Cakes Or Meat Balls
Depression Meat Cakes or Meat Balls are hearty, versatile dishes featuring seasoned ground beef, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put ground beef, eggs, and chopped onion in a bowl; soak bread slices in water and add to the bowl.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over the mixture and mix with hands until well blended.
- If the mixture is too wet, add more bread slices.
- Shape the mixture into cakes and fry like hamburgers in a skillet.
- Use pan drippings to make gravy and serve with mashed potatoes.
- To make meatballs, add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon granulated garlic, and 1 teaspoon oregano to the mixture, then shape into round balls.
- Lay the meatballs on a cookie sheet and bake in a 350°F oven for about 1 hour or until cooked through.
- Drop the baked meatballs into spaghetti sauce and simmer for about 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic or herbs like parsley into the mixture. If you're out of ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute. Ensure the bread is well-soaked for a moist texture, and if you prefer a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes. These meat cakes also make a great filling for Party Pizzas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat cakes with creamy mashed potatoes and a rich gravy for a classic comfort meal. For the meatballs, pair them with spaghetti and a robust marinara sauce. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad can complement the dish beautifully. These flavors also resonate well with other hearty Beef recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meat cakes or meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist, or microwave them in short intervals until heated through. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Depression" Meat Cakes Or Meat Balls contains roughly 623 calories, with 12g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1064mg per serving (46% 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 use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of meat used. Ensure you adjust spices accordingly to enhance the flavor.
How can I tell when the meatballs are fully cooked?
For meatballs, they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check. Additionally, they should be browned on the outside and firm to the touch. Cooking them in spaghetti sauce also helps ensure they're cooked through.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape the cakes or meatballs just before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld and can save time on busy days.
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).