Double Duty Meatballs
Juicy, flavorful meatballs cooked in rich spaghetti sauce, perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, with savory herbs and hearty oats for added texture and nutrition.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Spread 2/3 cup of the spaghetti sauce over the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
- Chop the onion.
- In a 2-quart bowl, combine chopped onion, ground beef, oats, 1/3 cup of spaghetti sauce, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt; mix gently.
- Using a small scoop, shape the meat mixture into meatballs.
- Place the meatballs in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 10 minutes.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the meatballs.
- Continue baking for an additional 20 minutes.
- Place 24 meatballs and half of the sauce from the dish in a covered container; refrigerate for later use in spaghetti.
- Use the remaining 24 meatballs in a sub sandwich.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey for the lean ground beef. If you're short on time, pre-chopped onion or onion powder can save you some prep. To add moisture, consider using a bit of grated zucchini or carrot. For added flavor, try mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese with the meat mixture. This recipe works well with Susan Antonelli'S Spaghetti Sauce for a delicious finish.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are perfect for a hearty sub sandwich topped with marinara and melted cheese. Serve them alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. They also pair beautifully with easy pasta skillet dishes or can be enjoyed over a bed of spaghetti for a classic Italian experience.
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 water or sauce to keep them moist, covering with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat on medium power in short increments until warmed through. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Double Duty Meatballs contains roughly 283 calories, with 8g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and freeze them before baking. Just shape them and place on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to use, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of oats in the meatball mixture?
If you don't have oats, breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can be a good substitute. They will help bind the meatballs while still keeping them tender. Just be cautious with the amount; start with a smaller quantity and adjust as needed for the right texture.
How can I ensure my meatballs are tender and not dry?
To keep your meatballs tender, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Gentle handling helps maintain a soft texture. Additionally, incorporating moist ingredients like grated vegetables or a splash of milk can enhance moisture. Baking them at the correct temperature also ensures they cook through without drying out.
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).